Faster More Accurate Diagnostic Imaging Now Available in Santa Cruz County

The benefits of this new technology are substantial. The high-speed scanner generates exceptionally detailed images—called slices—of the inside of the body in a matter of seconds. This allows physicians to make more accurate diagnoses of certain diseases than with conventional CT. Due to its speed and accuracy, patients spend less time on the CT table with significantly less exposure to radiation.

“Dominican Hospital and Radiology Medical Group of Santa Cruz County are excited to provide this safe and more accurate diagnostic imaging technology to our community in a convenient outpatient setting,” said Dominican Hospital President Nanette Mickiewicz, MD. “Combined with our extensive array of advanced radiology capabilities, we offer the highest standard of imaging care in the Monterey Bay region.”

“With conventional CT, metal objects in the body such as hip or knee implants, spinal screws, and even dental fillings, can distort the image,” said Radiologist Roy Martinez, MD, President of Radiology Medical Group of Santa Cruz County. “This scanner produces much clearer, cleaner images of the soft tissues and bone structures in areas next to metal artifacts, allowing us to make more accurate diagnoses without the need for additional testing.”

The new 128-slice CT scanner is used for all general imaging of the head, lung, spine soft tissue, extremity, and abdomen and pelvis. After the exam, radiologists provide prompt interpretation of all scans and are in direct contact with referring physicians to provide immediate access to images and the information needed for treatment planning.

Also in collaboration with Radiology Medical Group of Santa Cruz County, Dominican offers the latest advancement in mammogram technology – three-dimensional (3-D) mammography, or tomosynthesis – for the detection of breast cancer.

About Dominican Hospital 

Dignity Health Dominican Hospital has been caring for the Santa Cruz County community for more than 70 years. Dominican offers emergency services and is a Certified Stroke Center and Chest Pain Center.

Dominican’s services include the only comprehensive Cancer Center in Santa Cruz County, a Total Joint Replacement program, advanced neurological and endoscopic services, and an expert heart and vascular team treating some of the most complex cardiac cases in the Monterey Bay area. Dominican regularly receives ‘A’ grades for hospital safety from Leapfrog Group, and has received national recognition for superior patient safety, cardiac care, and stroke treatment from Healthgrades, a leading provider of comprehensive information about physicians and hospitals. Dominican also has received several awards for environmental excellence.  

About Radiology Medical Group of Santa Cruz County

Radiology Medical Group of Santa Cruz County (RMGSCC) has been providing high-quality, comprehensive diagnostic imaging services to Santa Cruz County since 1930. RMGSCC is accredited in multiple modalities by the American College of Radiology (ACR) and is FDA-accredited in mammography. RMGSCC offers radiological services in five outpatient imaging centers – a unique feature that allows RMGSCC to provide a continuity of care for patients. RMGSCC has a diverse group of skilled, subspecialty fellowship-trained, and general board-certified radiologists. To learn more, please visit our website at www.rmgscc.com.