Horizon Health Announces Next-Generation Radiology Services

Emphasizes patient comfort and convenience

Imagine a full-body radiology scan that takes only seconds to complete. Or, enjoying a movie in a theater-like setting during an MRI scan. How about a highly detailed heart check without radiation or surgery?

Horizon Health’s next-generation radiology services provide these amenities and more with an emphasis on patient comfort and convenience. Among the major technology upgrades are cutting-edge computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

“Everything we do is for our patients,” said Ollie Smith, Horizon Health president & CEO. “These investments will ensure patients receive the best care possible, now and into the future. Because of this new technology, patients don’t have to travel long distances to obtain the same, or often times lesser, quality imaging.”

Dr. Bruce Houle, full-time radiologist at Horizon Health, said the hospital’s upgraded imaging is consistent with large, highly specialized care centers.

“Our capabilities exceed anything I ever expected at an institution of our size,” said Dr. Houle. “There’s nothing better out there right now when it comes to equipment modernization.”

Horizon Health radiology services exceed industry standards in all services offered. The new technology provides faster scan times and quieter experiences. Behind the technology is an expert staff that makes it all possible, said Aaron Richardson, diagnostic imaging director.

“We have some of the most highly trained and knowledgeable technologists around,” he explained. “This degree of capability allows the technologists to adapt every feature of the advanced equipment to the patients’ needs and care.”

The addition of artificial intelligence produces higher quality images for diagnosing medical issues. All testing is “low dose,” which reduces radiation exposure by as much as 60 percent.

“Patients can now get a quicker answer to their clinical problems,” Dr. Houle explained. “And, more detailed answers are available to our subspecialists who provide the necessary follow-up treatments.”

An additional feature is non-contrast imaging, which foregoes the use of dyes that are commonly used to enhance image quality. Contrast, which is commonly used to detect strokes, heart, and vascular problems, can cause side effects and complications, Dr. Houle said.

Don Held, radiology manager, said Horizon Health is a “show site” for other hospitals that are looking to acquire the same technology.

“Hospitals much larger than us are coming here to see what we have,” he said. “It’s truly remarkable and unprecedented.”

Horizon Health’s upgraded imaging includes the following:

Computed Tomography (CT)

The new CT scanner features a large bore with a 700-pound capacity. It performs a full-body scan in six seconds or less, and provides advanced cardiac, brain, spine, and bone density scans.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

The 1.5-Telsa MRI has one of the widest bores in the industry and the quietest magnet available. Amenities include MRI theater – which is especially great for children – with stereo sound and comfort lighting. The MRI has the most advanced imaging capabilities in the region and performs every scan type, including cardiac and prostate. Cardiac image interpretation is performed by Innovation Health Services, a nationwide imaging practice comprised of highly trained cardiologists and radiologists.

Mammography

3D digital breast tomosynthesis is available, along with stereotactic breast biopsy, which uses mammography to locate breast abnormalities and remove tissue biopsies for examination.

Additional Services

• X-ray/Fluoroscopy
• Echocardiography
• Ultrasound
• Nuclear Medicine
• Interventional Procedures

“With this technology we have the ability to expand even further based on new discoveries and research in the industry,” Dr. Houle said. “That’s what excites me about Horizon Health. We’re always marching forward in a leadership role to provide the best patient care.”