RANSON, W.Va. - West Virginia University Hospitals-East’s Jefferson Memorial Hospital hosted a community open house for its new Women’s Imaging Center on Wednesday. The celebration began with a ribbon cutting ceremony co-sponsored by the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce.
Area residents had a chance to tour the new facility, located directly across from the main entrance to Jefferson Memorial Hospital at 207 S. Preston Street. The Center features the latest in digital mammography and stereotactic breast biopsy equipment from Hologic.
The Selenia Dimensions digital mammography machine is the first of its kind in the state, and is capable of producing 3D images. This newest addition to Hologic’s family of breast imaging solutions delivers exceptional digital breast images while offering ergonomic features that assure the well-being of the patient.
“Our new digital mammography system offers many conveniences, from very soft and slow application of breast compression for smooth positioning and increased patient tolerance, to having digital images immediately available for viewing and interpretation,” stated Christine Vetter, MD, radiologist.
In addition to digital mammography, the women’s imaging center is allowing Jefferson Memorial Hospital to offer stereotactic breast procedures to area residents that up to now haven’t been available in Jefferson County.
“The addition of both ultrasound-guided and stereotactic guided biopsy capabilities, allows diagnosis of concerning breast lesions with minimally invasive procedures,” Vetter said, adding, “The recovery time after the biopsy procedure is typically minimal, usually 1 or 2 days, allowing women to continue their busy schedules with minimal disruption, while at the same time attaining a definitive diagnosis.”
The new imaging center will also feature ultrasound and bone density testing. The design includes a private waiting “relaxation” area, larger dressing rooms, and more privacy.
“We believe that women deserve access to a special place created specifically for them where they can get highly specialized imaging services in a compassionate, caring environment,” said Dr. Christina Coad, chief administrative officer at Jefferson Memorial Hospital.
According to Coad, quality of care is equally important and a primary concern of patients. “We want our patients to have true peace of mind knowing that the Women’s Imaging Center radiologist, technologists and support staff have extensive experience in imaging and women’s health,” she added.
The community open house also included tours of the WVU Women’s Health Center, located next door in the WVU Medical Office Building.
Participating in the ribbon cutting ceremony were Dr. K.C. Nau, Jefferson Memorial Hospital Vice President of Medical Staff Services, Richard “Rick” Pill, WVUH-East Board of Directors, Dr. Christina Coad, Jefferson Memorial Hospital Chief Administrative Officer, Dr. Christine Vetter, Radiologist/JMH Radiology Department, Dan Systma, Manager/JMH Radiology Department, Dr. David Baltierra, President JMH Medical Staff, and Heather Morgan, Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce