Great Bend Regional Hospital began using the latest generation, highest-resolution magnetic resonance imaging scanner available. The Achieva 1.5T system from Philips Healthcare, which is used for MRI scans, offers some of the clearest images available, it also features many patient-friendly features that make getting an MRI a more positive experience. In particular, the Achieva 1.5T system can perform whole body MR scan more quickly, reducing exam times. The industry leading design of the 1.5T system is also less intimidating and less claustrophobic than other MR machines, contributing to patient acceptance.
“The Achieva 1.5T MR system we have installed incorporates the very latest technology and provides exceptional image quality in the most patient-friendly environment. It is a tremendous diagnostic tool for our physicians to better diagnose and care for their patients.” said Pam Chambers, Administrator of Great Bend Regional Hospital.
Another feature that the Achieva 1.5T MR System offers is breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) screens. The American Cancer Society recommends that high risk women obtain a yearly mammogram plus breast MRI. According to ACS guidelines high-risk women include those who:
· Have a gene mutation known as BRCA1 or BRAC2
· Have a first degree relative (mother, father, brother, sister, or child) with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation and have not had genetic testing themselves
· Find out they have a lifetime risk of breast cancer of 20-25% or greater, according to risk assessment tools that are based mainly on family history
· Had radiation therapy to the chest for another type of cancer, such as Hodgkin’s disease, when they were between the ages 10 and 30
· Have a genetic disease such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Cowden syndrome, or Bannayan-Riley-Ruvalcaba syndrome, or have one of these syndromes in the first-degree relatives
Talk to your physician about the possibility of adding breast MRI screening to your yearly mammogram.  You and your physician may need to work with your health insurance plan to ensure that the screening is covered.  Patients may have to prove to their insurer that they are indeed a high-risk for breast cancer.
Great Bend Regional Hospital is pleased to be able to offer this important improvement in healthcare to its patients. The hospital has provided quality healthcare services to the Barton County community and surrounding counties since 2001.