Mammogram essential in Steps to Kick Cancer
SAN ANDREAS, CA – September 13, 2019 - An annual mammogram is essential when it comes to Steps to Kick Cancer. The Diagnostic Imaging Department at Mark Twain Medical Center is expert in reducing patient anxiety and making the experience as comfortable as possible for an average of 12 to 15 patients a day.
Diagnostic Imaging is part of the MTMC Care Team which will explain local resources to diagnose, treat and triumph over breast cancer at the Oct. 24 Steps to Kick Cancer awareness luncheon. It will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in a tent pavilion set up for the occasion, with the complimentary meal catered by Carmen’s Cafe. Seating is limited and reservations are required; call (209) 754-5919.
Popular Sacramento television personality Tina Macuha is the featured speaker. A ten-year breast cancer survivor, she has appeared on CW-31’s “Good Day Sacramento” morning show since its inception in 1995, and in April 2009 began sharing her breast cancer journey on the show.
A new Breast Health Program will get underway soon at MTMC with recent acquisition of Hologic 3D Mammography and Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Diagnostic Imaging Director Gary Arvin, explains, “3D Tomosynthesis mammography provides high resolution imaging to make it easier to identify much smaller abnormalities, therefore, reducing callback exams. The MRI breast coil, uses a powerful magnetic field, radio frequency pulses and a computer to produce detailed pictures of the structures within the breast.” Acquisition of the innovative equipment is the first step in the new program – which will provide each patient with a personalized path to the most effective treatment.
He continues, “Our veteran Radiologic Technologists Tracey Logette and Karen Hendrix have cumulative experience between them adding up to over half-a-century. Tracey has been at MTMC for 26 years and now sees a second generation of mammography patients – the daughters of women she has seen consistently over the years. Karen joined the MTMC team in 2017 with over 30 years mammography experience in Stockton and Sonora.”
Karen adds, “Over the years I have come to understand that those undergoing this procedure often find it uncomfortable and anxiety producing. Our challenge is to provide quality images while making the client as comfortable as possible.”
In keeping with Breast Cancer Awareness Month’s traditional pink theme – pink shoes will be a fun focus at the luncheon. Guests are urged to wear pink shoes to qualify for special prizes. Community groups are supporting the event with entries for a PINK SHOE ART SHOW that day. Call (209) 754-5919 for detailed contest information.
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About Mark Twain Medical Center
Founded in 1951, Mark Twain Medical Center is a 25-bed, critical access hospital providing inpatient acute care, outpatient services and emergency services. The Medical Center’s Medical Staff represents a broad range of specialties that ensure access to high quality medical care in a rural community. In addition to being a major provider of health services, Mark Twain Medical Center is also one of the area’s largest employers. More than 300 people are employed at the hospital and its five Family Medical Centers. The Medical Center is a member of Dignity Health and a part of CommonSpirit Health, one of the largest nonprofit health systems in the nation dedicated to advancing health for all and serving communities in 21 states. Mark Twain Medical Center is also on Facebook.
Publish date:
Thursday, September 12, 2019