Special to The Richmond Register

Saint Joseph Berea continues to uphold its vision to provide a healthier future for all , inspired by faith , driven by innovation and powered by humanity . While caregivers provide that connection to humankindness , the hospital also recognizes that innovation in health care is often driven by technology .

Over the next few months , Saint Joseph Berea will be adding new technology upgrades including 3D mammography and a nuclear medicine camera . It recently added a wider-bore MRI system .

“ This technology allows us to bring the latest in diagnostic technology to care for our patients and enhance diagnostic accuracy while reducing discomfort ,” said John Yanes , president , Saint Joseph Berea .

3D Mammography : A Precision Tool in Breast Health

Incorporating 3D mammography technology , also known as digital breast tomosynthesis , reinforces Saint Joseph Berea ’ s dedication to early detection

and treatment of breast cancer . This innovative imaging technique offers unparalleled clarity and detail compared to traditional 2D mammography , enabling radiologists to identify abnormalities with greater accuracy .

“ 3D mammography provides a clearer image , which is enhanced by the use of artificial intelligence to provide more accurate and timely assessments of breast health ,” Yanes said . “ We are proud to bring this advanced technology to Berea so women can access this service closer to home . We are committed to providing the highest standard of care in our community .”

With clearer images , the likelihood of false positives is minimized , resulting in fewer callbacks and reduced patient anxiety .

Empowering Precision Medicine with Nuclear Medicine Imaging

Saint Joseph Berea received a federal grant to purchase a new nuclear medicine camera .

“ This new camera is a groundbreaking shift in diagnostic imaging ,” Yanes said . “ The technology allows our radiologists and oncologists to obtain an

image in half the time it takes with older cameras . The design of the system is also more comfortable for patients .”

This sophisticated equipment enables health care professionals to visualize real-time physiological and metabolic changes within targeted organ systems , aiding in detecting and diagnosing various diseases , including cancer .

By leveraging this stateof-the-art technology , the hospital ’ s radiologists and oncologists can deliver precise and personalized treatment plans , ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life .

Enhanced Comfort and Precision with Wider-Bore MRI

Recognizing the diverse needs of its patients , Saint Joseph Berea also introduces a wider-bore MRI system designed to accommodate individuals of varying sizes and comfort levels . Unlike traditional MRI machines , the wider bore design provides ample space and headroom , alleviating feelings of claustrophobia and anxiety commonly associated with enclosed spaces . Patients ,

particularly those with broader shoulders or higher body weights , benefit from a more comfortable and less restrictive imaging experience . The highquality images produced by the wider-bore MRI system facilitate faster and more accurate diagnoses , empowering health care teams to deliver timely interventions and personalized treatment plans .

The integration of 3D mammography , nuclear medicine imaging , and wider-bore MRI technology at Saint Joseph Berea underscores the hospital ’ s commitment to advancing patient care through innovation and compassion . By harnessing the power of cutting-edge technologies , the hospital is enhancing diagnostic accuracy and efficiency and prioritizing patient comfort and wellbeing .

“ One of our core values is excellence , and we know that providing the latest in technology is a part of that ,” Yanes said . “ We treat our patients like family and always strive to provide the highest level of compassionate care , combined with excellence in everything we do .”

Good Health Magazine 2024 • 7