Sidney Health Center Expands Cancer Imaging Services with New PET/CT Scanner
SIDNEY, MT — Sidney Health Center has introduced in-house PET/CT scans to enhance cancer imaging accessibility for patients in eastern Montana and western North Dakota. The new Canon Cartesion Prime Digital PET/CT scanner was funded by a generous $2.3 million grant from The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust, facilitated by the Foundation for Community Care.
This permanent scanner replaces the previous mobile PET/CT service, which was available only one day a week. Patients can now schedule scans on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, allowing for improved flexibility and better care coordination.
Jennifer Doty, CEO of Sidney Health Center, expressed her excitement, stating, “Having a permanent PET/CT scanner is an important step in strengthening the cancer care services we provide. It allows us to better meet the needs of patients throughout our region and make advanced imaging more accessible.”
Advantages of the New Technology
PET/CT imaging provides comprehensive details about bodily structures and the functionality of tissues and organs. This technology aids physicians in diagnosing, staging cancer, determining its spread, and monitoring treatment effectiveness.
The new scanner boasts digital imaging technology enhanced with artificial intelligence for higher quality images and features a wider opening for improved patient comfort. It also supports CT imaging for radiation therapy treatment planning, streamlining the process for patients by consolidating imaging and treatment in one location.
Taryn McMillen, Imaging Services Director, emphasized the benefits, saying, “Having PET/CT imaging available right here in Sidney is a tremendous benefit for our patients… It helps make an already stressful time a little easier for patients and their families.”
Patient Testimonials
One of the first patients to utilize the new scanner, Bill Lewis, highlighted the convenience of having this service nearby. After being monitored for lung nodules due to past smoking, he previously traveled to Billings for PET/CT scans. The new local service saves him time and costs, making the entire process simpler.
Lewis remarked, “Oh, it just makes everything simpler, easier, cheaper. I’m just glad that they’ve got it here.”
Commitment to Community Health
The introduction of the permanent PET/CT scanner further broadens Sidney Health Center’s cancer care offerings, which include advanced diagnostics, treatment planning, and both medical oncology and radiation therapy.
Doty concluded, “This accomplishment reflects the dedication of our team and the generosity of those who support rural healthcare. We’re grateful to the Helmsley Charitable Trust for making this possible and proud of the work that went into bringing this service to Sidney. Most importantly, we’re excited about the difference it will make for our patients and their families.”
