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New St. Rose Hello Baby service shows real-time pictures
biz slt sonograms
Lacey Kern, ultrasound technologist, performs a 4D sonogram at St. Rose Health Center. She is watching the face of a baby, while the mother-to-be can see the image on a projector screen. - photo by COURTESY PHOTO

          A mommy-to-be who doesn’t want to wait nine months to see her baby smile, yawn or suck a thumb now has an opportunity to satisfy her curiosity earlier.

          St. Rose Health Center recently began offering “Hello Baby” 4D sonograms for a real-time view of the child during a personalized and unique ultrasound session, said Shannon Deines, radiology operations manager.

          “This sonogram is a fun way to get a good first peek at your baby,” Deines said. “The detail is astounding and you can often tell who the child looks like.

          “The baby is pictured moving around in real time on a projector screen,” Deines added. “The picture quality depends on how the baby is sitting and the amount of amniotic fluid involved. But in many cases, you can see the baby’s face and watch movements as they happen.”

          If the baby doesn’t want to cooperate, St. Rose will schedule another session during the same week at no charge.

          The optimum time for the sonogram is 25 to 30 weeks into the pregnancy, Deines said, noting the test is safe and radiation is not involved.

          Deines emphasized that a 4D sonogram is not a substitute for regular diagnostic ultrasound tests, which indicate the growth and health of the baby.

          “The patient signs a short release form that indicates the 4D sonogram is not performed for any medical reason,” Deines noted. “The form also notes that the mother is under the care of a physician.”

          A doctor’s referral is not necessary and the cost is $100 payable by cash or check; an additional $25 is charged for multiple babies.

The fee includes the 30-minute session, a 4-by-6-inch framed picture of the baby and a CD with images and motion clips.

          A registered ultrasound technologist performs the test, which is not covered by insurance.

          “St. Rose wanted to offer this opportunity locally at an affordable price,” Deines said. “We hope the community takes advantage of this new service that can be shared with family and friends in a relaxed, fun atmosphere.”

          For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 620-786-6117.

St. Rose specializes in primary care, prevention and wellness. Services include St. Rose Family Medicine, Convenient Care Walk-in Clinic, Great Bend Internists, imaging, infusion clinic, WellnessWorks, one-day surgical procedures, Golden Belt Home Health & Hospice and a comprehensive Specialty Clinic. St. Rose is co-owned by Hays Medical Center and Centura Health.