Whether because of a sudden injury, unexpected illness or as a preventive measure, most people find themselves needing diagnostic imaging at some
point in their lives. In addition to the radiology department on the main campus, Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) offers services at the PMC Diagnostic
Center to offer a convenient location for patients to obtain various types of x-rays or scans without the need to visit the main campus. The Diagnostic
Center has gone through several periods of renovation to accommodate new equipment and technology as well as increase patient convenience.
The most recent renovation project featured the expansion of the front lobby to increase seating capacity for patients waiting for testing. However, the
most notable differences lie in the services and technology offered in the facility. A state-of-the-art bone density scanner used for screening purposes
to monitor a patient following the administration of certain medications or to measure the success of various treatment techniques is one of the most celebrated additions.
Women who visit the PMC Diagnostic Center for mammograms will find a dedicated Breast Care Area that offers the latest technology in 3D
Mammography. Each of the three mammography machines offers state-of-the-art AI technology which can rapidly and accurately analyze each 3D
image. The software can identify potential cancer with pinpoint accuracy, alerting physicians almost instantly that additional measures may be necessary.
Pikeville Medical Center made headlines when the PMC Diagnostic Center team performed the region’s first PET scan designed specifically to detect prostate cancer. The prostate PET scan is used as a tool to both diagnose and help guide treatments for prostate cancer. It is particularly beneficial to urologists treating patients who are at high risk or suspected of having prostate cancer.
“Being able to provide this advanced testing gives patients of Eastern Kentucky access to technology that is not offered at any other facility in the
region,” explained PMC Vice President of Diagnostic Services Joni Fields. “This technology gives our physicians the ability to know if cancer has spread
beyond the prostate at the time of diagnosis, which is monumental when it comes to cancer care at PMC.”
The PMC Diagnostic Center also features an EKG machine, which offers an added convenience to patients whose healthcare provider has ordered both an EKG and lab work. Patients can have their blood drawn and the EKG in one convenient stop across the road from the PMC main campus.
Having advanced diagnostic imaging capabilities in two convenient locations is a testament to Pikeville Medical Center’s commitment to providing advanced diagnostic imaging capabilities to the patients of Eastern Kentucky.
