Saint Joseph Berea Expands Breast Health Services With Introduction of 3D Mammography Technology

BEREA, Ky. (April 29, 2024) – Saint Joseph Berea announces the latest advancement in its commitment to providing state-of-the-art health care services to the community with the introduction of 3D mammography technology. This innovative addition further strengthens the hospital’s comprehensive suite of breast health services, ensuring patients have access to advanced diagnostic tools for early detection and treatment of breast cancer.

3D mammography, also known as digital breast tomosynthesis, offers significant advantages over traditional 2D mammography by providing clearer, more detailed images of breast tissue. This advanced imaging technology enhances the ability of radiologists to detect abnormalities, including small masses and areas of concern, leading to earlier detection and improved patient outcomes.

“We’re thrilled to unveil 3D mammography for our patients,” said Delaine Thiel, CFRE, market vice president, philanthropy, Saint Joseph Berea Foundation. “Its potential impact in early breast cancer detection is profound, allowing us to raise the bar in care standards for our community. With this investment in state-of-the-art equipment and our ongoing commitment to expanding services, we’re poised to make a significant difference in advancing health care excellence.”

In addition to its imaging capabilities, 3D mammography offers other benefits, including reduced false positives and improved detection in women with dense breast tissue. This means fewer unnecessary callbacks for additional imaging, minimizing patient anxiety and streamlining the diagnostic process.

An AI component will also enhance the diagnostic capabilities of this technology at Saint Joseph Berea. The new 3D mammography technology was funded through the Saint Joseph Berea Foundation.

“The introduction of 3D mammography epitomizes Saint Joseph Berea’s unwavering commitment to providing health care solutions tailored to our patients,” said John Yanes, president, Saint Joseph Berea. “This advanced technology signifies more than just innovation; it symbolizes our commitment to providing superior care experiences. We are proud to empower our patients with unparalleled diagnostic precision, enabling informed health care choices that promote their well-being and peace of mind.”

For more information on 3D mammography services, visit https://www.chisaintjosephhealth.org/womens-care/breast-health.

About CHI Saint Joseph Health

CHI Saint Joseph Health, part of CommonSpirit Health, is one of the largest and most comprehensive health systems in the Commonwealth of Kentucky with 100 locations in 20 counties, including hospitals, physician groups, clinics, primary care centers, specialty institutes, home health agencies and an ambulatory Care Center. The hospitals in CHI Saint Joseph Health are Flaget Memorial Hospital, Saint Joseph Berea, Saint Joseph East, Saint Joseph Hospital, Saint Joseph Jessamine, Saint Joseph London, Saint Joseph Mount Sterling, and Women’s Hospital at Saint Joseph East. In total, the health system serves patients in 35 counties statewide. CHI Saint Joseph Health is dedicated to providing a wide array of services toward a goal of building a healthier future for all. CHI Saint Joseph Health embodies a strong mission and faith-based heritage and works through local partnerships to expand access to care in the communities it serves.

About Saint Joseph Berea

Saint Joseph Berea is a 25-bed critical access hospital located in Berea, Kentucky. Established in 1898 on the grounds of Berea College, the facility serves residents of Madison, Estill, Garrard, Jackson and Rockcastle counties. Saint Joseph Berea recognizes the importance of family, friends and familiar surroundings in the healing process and provides a breadth of services so that getting first-rate care doesn’t have to mean being far from home.

About Saint Joseph Berea Foundation

Saint Joseph Berea Foundation supports CHI Saint Joseph Health by inspiring donors to make a tangible difference through their philanthropic investment in outstanding patient care facilities and services, the education of caregivers, advanced clinical research and programs that improve access to quality medical care.

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