MedWest-Swain to offer new technology in women’s imaging and bone density testing
1/31/2013
MedWest-Swain to offer new technology in women’s imaging and bone density testing
Bryson City, N.C. – MedWest-Swain is pleased to announce that the most advanced technology in breast imaging and bone density testing will be offered on the Swain campus beginning March 1.
MedWest-Swain received a federal grant in the amount of $100,000 from the Appalachian Regional Commission to serve the community with a digital mammography and bone densitometry system. The hospital auxiliary contributed $30,000 to the project from funds generated by the community-supported thrift store on the campus of MedWest-Swain.
"The Auxiliary is pleased to help support this project. We recognize that there is a critical need for patients in Bryson City and other outlying areas of our region to receive proper testing in a convenient location. We encourage all local women to take advantage of this convenience," said Sheila Matthes, president of the Swain Auxiliary.
The new system will mean local access to the latest technology in key women’s services.
“The Hologic system we were fortunate to purchase for Swain County offers the very latest in breast imaging and bone density testing. We are pleased to provide our patients, physicians and staff with the most updated technology,” said Jacky Bradley, Director of Imaging Services at MedWest.
“Lives will be longer and better with this testing provided locally, and we health care professionals who serve here in Swain County are grateful for the efforts of those who have made this possible,” said Dr. Mark Engel, a family physician at Swain Medical Center.
Digital systems are the standard of care for mammography, providing the clearest possible images and reducing the amount of time a patient waits for results. Bone densitometry measures the strength of bones as a way to screen for osteoporosis. The system will be conveniently located inside the hospital’s radiology department at MedWest-Swain, eliminating the need for travel outside the county.
“The Bryson City community has always been supportive of our hospital providing mammography services locally so we are thrilled that our Swain Auxiliary and the Appalachian Regional Commission have made this important project possible,” said Steve Heatherly, President and CEO of MedWest-Harris and MedWest-Swain.
The Swain Auxiliary is comprised of community volunteers donating time and talent in support of patient care and hospital projects. The thrift store at MedWest-Swain is located behind the hospital and is open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. To become a volunteer call 586-7405.
The Appalachian Regional Commission is a regional economic development agency representing a partnership of federal, state and local government in the 13 Appalachian states. For more information visit www.arc.gov.