Hospital touts opening of 2 new outpatient imaging centers designed with patient input

An Idaho hospital is touting the opening of two new women’s outpatient imaging centers designed using input from patients. 

Kootenai Health announced the rollout of the new facilities on May 5, located in the communities of Coeur d’Alene and Post Falls. They utilize top technology, offered in a “healing environment” in which women can feel “supported during their screenings.” 

Women’s input encouraged the hospital to provide both mammography and bone density screenings at the centers, allowing patients to plan both in the same visit. Ultrasound and MRI also are available in these “warm, inviting” new imaging environments. 

“This expansion ensures greater access to high-quality diagnostic services and supports our community with the latest advancements in women’s health,” Tim Swartz, executive director of ancillary and support services at Kootenai Health, said in an announcement.

The Coeur d’Alene location features two new 3D mammography units, auto-breast ultrasound and a DEXA bone density scanner. Post Falls, meanwhile, also had a 3D mammo unit, bone density scanner and ultrasound machine designed specifically for obstetric and pelvic exams. Kootenai also publicized the inclusion of artificial intelligence-driven technology, making it easier for trained radiologists to “detect areas of concern early and with greater precision.” 

The new centers align with National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (administered by the American College of Surgeons) standards. Kootenai noted this requires rigorous evaluation and review of performance to “demonstrate their commitment to the highest levels of quality breast care.” They’re also accredited by the American College of Radiology. 

Kootenai emphasized that all imaging work at its new center is read by local, fellowship trained radiologists, rather than remote rads. 

“These centers are staffed by expert radiology technologists and fellowship-trained radiologists, ensuring the highest level of care and precision,” Swartz said in the announcement. 

Kootenai’s new offerings come as hospitals increasingly look to capitalize on patients seeking cheaper care at outpatient locations outside of the main hospitals. Many also are seeking to carve out women’s imaging into a separate capability, with mammography expected to see 9% volume growth through 2028. Imaging providers also are seeking to offer a concierge, boutique-style care model with spa-like amenities and a focus on comfort and wellness. 

“We see a big trend toward carving out women’s health and mammography into a separate capability set,” Andrew Colbert, senior managing director of Ziegler, told attendees at the RBMA annual meeting earlier this year. “That’s something we’re definitely working with a lot of groups around.”