MRI and Molecular Testing Provide High-Tech Diagnostic Services Close to Home
Greene County General Hospital is once again expanding services for patients and their families, providing new and improved diagnostic tools. New service lines include an MRI system in radiology and molecular testing in the laboratory.
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tients may have noticed the long, white trailer parked between the main entrance and ER entrance, which houses the new MRI system (GE HDxT, 8 channel MRI system with level 23X software). Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging technique that uses a powerful magnet and radio waves to produce detailed images of the body’s organs and structures. MRI studies can detect tiny structural changes within the body and can be used as an accurate method of disease and injury detection throughout the body and to help diagnose or monitor treatment for a variety of conditions.
In addition, the hospital’s on-site laboratory has added molecular testing. This service analyzes and quickly identifies infections, providing important diagnostic information within an hour or two, sometimes even while a patient waits. Faster identification means faster diagnosis, treatment, and recovery for patients. This testing is especially helpful in identifying infectious diseases such as the flu virus, tuberculosis, and sexually transmitted infections.
“On-site full-time MRI services has been a goal of ours for some time,” said CEO Brenda Reetz. “Coupled with the molecular testing in our lab, we are increasing our quality of care exponentially. Patients and their providers can get the answers they need faster than ever, without the hassle of a long drive or the impersonal feel of a big hospital system.”
