LRH Accredited for Digital Mammography
Lakes Regional Healthcare’s (LRH) digital mammography program recently underwent a successful “no findings” inspection under the Mammography Quality Standards Act by the Iowa Department of Public Health.
Mammography is a healthcare service where a mammogram, or an x-ray of the breast, is taken. A mammogram is the single most effective way to detect abnormalities related to breast cancer, as it can identify cancer several years before physical symptoms occur. According to LRH Radiology Manager Tracy Evans, “One in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, so our mammography program is an important diagnostic tool to catch breast cancer in its earliest stages, when it is most treatable.”
The inspection of LRH’s digital mammography service included evaluating the digital mammography machine’s performance, reviewing all quality control measurements, performing patient outcome audits, and reviewing patient follow-up procedures to ensure they are timely and complete. According to Evans, the inspector also checked all licenses, permits to practice, and continuing education units to ensure the staff at LRH have the utmost knowledge in the latest protocols to provide the service.
Evans said, “The staff has done a great job of maintaining an impressive mammography quality control program. They have contributed significantly to our successful inspection, and we appreciate their efforts. We also appreciate the fact the inspections are done annually and are a way to communicate to the public that LRH offers quality care and maintains a high degree of knowledge about the latest mammography care issues.”
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