ALTON– Thanks to a deliberate investment by OSF HealthCare to bring the latest health care technologies to the Riverbend region, OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony’s Health Center has installed two new advanced diagnostic imaging systems, a state-of-the-art CT scanner and MRI system designed to deliver faster, clearer and more accurate imaging for patients and empowering providers with life-saving diagnostic precision.
The installation represents the latest significant investment toward the future of health care at OSF Saint Anthony’s, said Lisa Schepers, DNP, MBA, RN, NE-BC, interim president, OSF Saint Anthony’s.
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“When patients have questions, imaging services, like CT and MRI are among the most important tools toward getting them answers,” Schepers said. “Riverbend residents deserve the very best, and these new advanced diagnostic imaging systems are among the most sophisticated available. This investment reflects our commitment to innovation and patient-centric care at OSF Saint Anthony’s.”
These new diagnostic systems save lives, says Fred SanSoucie RT(R)(CT)(ARRT), director of imaging services, OSF Saint Anthony’s. “The new technology offers the ability to provide specialty imaging for early detection of disease, including cancers, heart issues and stroke.”
CT and MRI technology also provides doctors with more information when developing treatment plans while remaining non-invasive for patients, SanSoucie says.
“The new MRI can reduce exam time by approximately 50% of a traditional MRI. Patients spend less time in the machine, and physicians receive results faster, allowing for earlier diagnosis and treatment when every second counts,” SanSoucie states. “Additionally, the new MRI offers a more comfortable patient experience during the scan with a more open ‘tube’ suited for patients up to 500 pounds and reducing anxiety from claustrophobia.”
Previously, some specialized imaging was difficult to obtain without crossing the river, SanSoucie said. “Now, Riverbend region residents have all the imaging technology they need here at OSF Saint Anthony’s in Alton, and none of the traffic. Whether it’s chronic pain, a sports injury or a complex neurological case, the new MRI provides a non-invasive means of obtaining diagnosis and determining the correct treatment.”
Learn more about the GE HealthCare SIGNA™ Artist Evo MRI and GE HealthCare Revolution™ Ascend CT machine.
Learn more about diagnostics and imaging services at OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center by visiting www.osfsaintanthonys.org.
AboutOSF HealthCare Saint Anthony’s Health Center: A 49-bed Rural Health designated acute care hospital in Alton, Illinois, OSF Saint Anthony’s serves the residents of Madison, Jersey and Macoupin counties. It is home to OSF Moeller Cancer Center, which provides the latest diagnostic tools and treatment for patients in a relaxing environment. OSF Saint Anthony’s also provides 24-hour access to a physician-staffed emergency department.
