McKenzie Health System Earns ACR Accreditation

McKenzie Health System has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in mammography as the result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology (ACR). Mammography is a specific type of imaging test that uses a low-dose X-ray system to examine breasts. A mammography exam, called a mammogram, is used to aid in the early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases in women.

The ACR gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety. It is awarded only to facilities meeting ACR Practice Parameters and Technical Standards after a peer-review evaluation by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. Image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures and quality assurance programs are assessed. The findings are reported to the ACR Committee on Accreditation, which subsequently provides the practice with a comprehensive report that can be used for continuous practice improvement.

“Community members have access to the most advanced mammograms available without the long drive,” shares Jay Smith, Director of Diagnostic Imaging. “Donations and a commitment from the McKenzie Health System Foundation and the McKenzie Health System Auxiliary allowed the hospital to upgrade to 3D mammography technology, also known as digital breast tomosynthesis. This technology, along with the purchase of advanced diagnostic software and additional upgrades, provides several critical improvements for patients.”

3D Mammography is “CT like” imaging of the breast where very small abnormalities can be detected at a much earlier stage. McKenzie also invested in the very latest in Artificial Intelligence (AI) based computer detection software which analyzes the mammographic images to identify any suspicious spots that may likely be cancer. If a suspicious area is found, McKenzie can also provide Contrast Enhanced Spectral Mammography (CESM). CESM is a study performed after an IV injection is administered. Malignant masses will be highlighted with the IV contrast and be readily seen.

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women, exceeded only by lung cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. Detecting cancer at an earlier stage will influence a woman’s chance of survival. Please talk with your primary care provider about your risk for breast cancer. 3D mammography screenings are covered by Medicare and most insurance plans. You can also schedule an appointment for a mammogram at McKenzie Health System by calling 810-648-6110.

To learn more about 3D mammography and other diagnostic services available at McKenzie Health System, visit https://mckenziehealth.org/services/diagnostic-imaging.

The ACR, founded in 1924, is a professional medical society dedicated to serving patients and society by empowering radiology professionals to advance the practice, science and professions of radiological care. The College serves more than 37,000 diagnostic/interventional radiologists, radiation oncologists, nuclear medicine physicians, and medical physicists with programs focusing on the practice of medical imaging and radiation oncology and the delivery of comprehensive health care services.