Saint Joseph Berea Holds Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for New Nuclear Medicine Camera

BEREA, Ky. (Oct. 24, 2024) - Saint Joseph Berea held a ribbon-cutting ceremony earlier today to debut its new state-of-the-art nuclear medicine camera funded by a $350,000 federal grant. This cutting-edge equipment represents a significant advancement in diagnostic imaging, allowing radiologists and oncologists to capture high-quality, real-time images, enhancing patient comfort and care. The new camera will assist in diagnosing various diseases, including cancer, and will enable more personalized treatment plans, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

“Our new nuclear medicine camera is a game-changer for Saint Joseph Berea and the patients we serve,” said John Yanes, president, Saint Joseph Berea. “This advanced technology not only enhances the accuracy and speed of diagnoses but also ensures a more comfortable experience for our patients. By investing in cutting-edge equipment, we are reinforcing our commitment to providing the highest quality care and improving the overall health outcomes in our community.”

U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (R-06) and Berea Mayor Bruce Fraley attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony. With Congressman Barr's support, Saint Joseph Berea received the $350,000 federal grant from the Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to purchase the nuclear medicine camera. The hospital provided approximately 10% as a cash match for the grant.

“By securing the federal funding for this vital piece of equipment at Saint Joseph Berea, we are strengthening our local health system and ensuring that the people of Berea and surrounding communities have access to the best possible care close to home,” said Congressman Andy Barr. “This new nuclear medicine camera will enhance the hospital’s ability to deliver faster, more accurate diagnoses, which is critical for improving patient outcomes.”

“We are incredibly proud to play a role in bringing this advanced technology to Berea,” said Mayor Bruce Fraley. “The addition of the new nuclear medicine camera at Saint Joseph Berea demonstrates our community's commitment to providing top-tier health care to our residents. It’s a testament to the strong partnerships and investments we’ve made in ensuring that our residents have access to the latest medical innovations, improving both quality of care and quality of life in our city.”

*Click here to download photos from the event

Photo Information:

Employee photo (Back row left to right): Rhonda McMaster, Jackie Maynard, Leo Fain, Darcy Maupin, Laurie Faught, Dr. Shelley Stanko. (Front row left to right): Rachel Morgan, Amanda Cline.

Ribbon cutting photo (left to right): Tiffany Stratman, nuclear medicine tech at Saint Joseph Berea; John Yanes, president, Saint Joseph Berea; Congressman Andy Barr; Rhonda McMaster, manager, cardiovascular services, Saint Joseph Berea; Berea Mayor Bruce Fraley; Christy Spitser, interim market president, CHI Saint Joseph Health; and Winston Griffin, board chairman, CHI Saint Joseph 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.

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