Allegiance Health Makes PET/CT Technology Available to Patients
May 26, 2005
Jackson, Mich. — With cancer affecting an estimated 10 million people worldwide, Allegiance physicians now have an exciting new tool to aid in the earlier detection of the disease. The technology, termed “Positron Emission Tomography (PET)/Computed Tomography" (CT), is now available each Saturday at Allegiance Health.
According to Terry Keys, Director of Imaging and Radiation Oncology Services, PET/CT is a highly-advanced procedure that detects cancer and is used in conjunction with existing imaging treatment methods. A safe and effective diagnostic procedure, the PET/CT scan is a two-part process that can pinpoint the location of a tumor by combining two imaging technologies into a single rapid exam. Because of PET/CT’s unique qualities and flexibility, it is exceptionally good at detecting cancer and measuring the functionality of organs. The result is fast and accurate detection and diagnosis, which can lead to effective treatment plans for cancer patents.
Allegiance received Certificate of Need (CON) approval for the PET/CT system from the State of Michigan in March. PET/CT services will be available to patients every Saturday from 9 a.m. until 5:30 p.m.
“This technology provides our patients with a local option not available in the past,” said Keys. “Combined with our existing services, the PET/CT unit further strengthens our efforts to provide the community with comprehensive healthcare options.”