Great strides have occurred over the years when it comes to women’s health and specifically breast cancer. However, technology is constantly evolving and creating new opportunities for health care providers and patients.
That’s why the official launch of Vernon Jubilee Hospital’s new digital mammography machine Friday is positive news.
The new unit enhances the ability to detect micro-lesions thanks to higher quality resolution. It also reduces the amount of radiation patients are subject to by about 30 per cent.
“The technological improvements that accompany the conversion to digital equipment are numerous,” said Dr. Glenn Scheske, a VJH radiologist.
“They include easier and faster stereotactic breast biopsy procedures, computer-assisted diagnosis for interpretation as well as better storage and access for breast imaging examinations.”
Unfortunately, though, such equipment comes at a price — $750,000 — and that is a challenge in tight financial times.
But the good news is that the involvement of the North Okanagan-Columbia-Shuswap Regional Hospital District and the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation made the new digital mammography machine possible.
“The community has really come together to support this cause and their generous donations have made the purchase of the mammography machine possible,” said Sue Beaudry, with the VJH Foundation.
Our hats are off to everyone who played an active role in this venture, and particularly local donors. Because of you, many women faced with cancer will have success stories.
