This month marks the one-year anniversary of the opening of the Sonoma Valley Hospital Diagnostic Imaging Annex, which has provided 3,369 mammograms for Sonoma women.
The Annex now offers both digital mammography and bone density screenings, technology that is state of the art, according to Dr. W. James DeMartini, Chief of Radiology and Imaging Services. “From the technical aspect, digital imaging is a much more accurate way to evaluate breasts,” he said. The system now includes computer-aided detection, which draws radiologists’ attention to suspicious lesions. “This is the best system anywhere.”
The technology allows hospital doctors to get advice and opinions from experts anywhere in the world. As Medical Director of the California Advanced Imaging Medical Associates, Inc., DeMartini can consult an extended network of radiologists who are always available, electronically, to help interpret the digital images.
With increased accuracy the need for repeat testing declines, said Medical Imaging Manager Jackie Lyons. Since going digital there has been a 16 percent decrease in repeat exams, she said.
The Imaging Annex, which offer bilingual staff support, is accredited by the American College of Radiology.
Other factors have lead to the fist-year success of the Annex. In addition, DeMartini said there’s easy parking, a nice facility, no wait, and women can get their bone density test at the same time. “It’s much more convenient,” he said.
Community fundraising led by the Sonoma Valley Hospital Foundation made it possible for the hospital to provide the digital mammography and bone densitometer equipment at the center.
“This is another demonstration of how hospital staff and the community have worked together to provide needed and valuable health care services to our residents,” said Chief Executive Officer Carl Gerlach. “Our thanks go out to Jackie Lyons, Dr. DeMartini and all the staff, and to Carolyn J. Stone and the Foundation for their fine work the women of Sonoma.”
The Sonoma Valley Hospital Diagnostic Imaging Annex is located within the Carolyn J. Stone Center for Women’s Health and Wellness at 246 Perkins St. in Sonoma.
