Patients in the region soon will have expanded access to advanced cancer imaging close to home. When the Mead Family Cancer Center opens Nov. 9, patients will be able to receive positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) in-house at Columbus Community Hospital.
A PET/CT scan is a highly advanced imaging test that combines two different types of scans into one machine, allowing doctors to see abnormal cellular changes and pinpoint their exact location inside the body. Doctors commonly use it to detect and stage cancer and help them determine a treatment plan.
For the past several years, CCH has offered PET/CT scans once a week via a mobile service parked outside the radiology department. While this provides a much-needed service locally, patients had to schedule around the mobile unit’s availability or travel out of town for scans. The addition of an in-house PET/CT scanner provides greater flexibility, faster access and a more seamless patient experience.
“We are thankful that our hospital board and administration felt strongly about being able to provide this service to our community,” said Denise Tomek, the hospital’s director of diagnostic imaging. “Offering PET/CT imaging in-house allows us to provide more timely, convenient care for patients by helping them stay close to home.”
PET/CT scans will be available in-house at CCH thanks to the addition of a brand-new Siemens scanner. The unit has the most up-to-date technology available, allowing doctors to provide faster diagnoses and more accurate monitoring.
“The new Siemens scanner offers enhanced image quality, which will make cancer detection easier,” said Andy Sack, one of three nuclear medical technologists on staff at CCH. “Most facilities the size of CCH do not have an in-house PET/CT scanner. Having access to this level of diagnostic technology close to home is a tremendous benefit for patients and families in our region.”
The new scanner offers several advantages:
Expanded local access. Top-tier diagnostic technology is available locally, keeping patients close to their families and support systems.
Patient convenience. The permanent scan room offers multiple days of availability each week, which allows patients to choose an appointment time that works for them, reduces wait time and enables patients to receive services locally.
Large, dedicated space. The scan room at the Mead Family Cancer Center is a larger, separate room that is more comfortable than the compact mobile unit, which will help patients feel less claustrophobic.
For more information regarding PET/CT scans or diagnostic imaging, visit our website at columbushosp.org.