PATIENTS RECEIVING A
computed tomography (CT) test at
Ashtabula County Medical Center (ACMC) will have their scan
performed with equipment that is accredited by the American
College of Radiology (ACR).
CT tests (also called CT scans) are a fast, painless diagnostic
tool used to see inside the body to rule out or confirm the presence
of disease or abnormalities. The state-of-the-art equipment
produces clear and detailed images in seconds, resulting in a
faster diagnosis and faster treatment. The equipment uses a low
dose of radiation, which is especially important for children.
ACMC’s CT scanner also has the capability of performing
diagnostic angiography so that physicians can obtain whole-heart
examinations in just seconds. Using CT to evaluate coronary
arteries reduces the need for drugs to regulate the rhythm of the
heart and eliminates a stay in the hospital.
“The ACR accreditation is a recertification for ACMC,” said
Nancy Shaw-Hertzog, director of imaging services for ACMC. “It
encompasses not only our equipment, but also our procedures
and our caregivers. The American College of Radiology looks
at training, policies for radiation dosage, patient records, and
inspection and repair of equipment. Every aspect of our CT
service meets ACR standards.”
The ACR standards for equipment require that CT units and
diagnostic departments meet state and federal regulations for
medical equipment as well as Medicare Part B requirements.
The majority of those requirements focus on the function of
the equipment, including quality of image, magnification and
alignment of equipment.
Full ACR accreditation is awarded for a three-year period.
“We know that our patients trust the care we provide,” said
ACMC President and CEO Michael Habowski. “Accreditation from
a national organization validates that trust and is further proof
that our caregivers and equipment are providing the best care
possible.”
To schedule a CT scan or any diagnostic imaging test, contact
your physician for a referral. Once you have a physician’s order,
call ACMC’s radiology department at
440-997-6686
. ACMC
offers extended hours throughout the week and on weekends for
scheduling convenience.
mini-stroke
maintaining and exceeding
the standards set by The
Joint Commission to be a
Primary Stroke Center.”
The Joint Commission’s
Primary Stroke Center
certification is based on the
recommendations for primary stroke centers
published by the Brain Attack Coalition and the
American Stroke Association’s statements and
guidelines for stroke care. The Joint Commission
launched the program—the nation’s first—in
2003. A list of programs certified by The Joint
Commission is available at
.
ACMC earns accreditation
for CT equipment
Take action
Dr. Muthusamy said not to ignore the symptoms,
in yourself or a loved one, even if they go away.
“Only a doctor can determine if you’ve had a
TIA or a stroke,” she said. “Don’t take chances
when blood flow to the brain is blocked. The only
way to know what really caused your symptoms
is to receive prompt medical treatment. By
starting treatment immediately, we can lower
the risk of another TIA or stroke.”
ACMC is certified as a Primary Stroke Center
(a designation issued by The Joint Commission),
which means that ACMC has established
protocols to identify a stroke and immediately
begin treatment to ensure the best outcome for
the patient.
People who are over the age of 55, who are
obese, who smoke or drink alcohol, or who
have diabetes all may be at risk for a stroke.
For more information and to take a free stroke
assessment, visit
and
click on the “Stroke” button under “Services.”
If you think a loved one is having a stroke, call
911 and have him or her taken to ACMC.
ACMC also offers a neurological disorders
support group, which meets the fourth
Thursday of each month. Topics covered include
symptoms and physical concerns, recovering
your quality of life, monitoring your health, and
more. To sign up to attend this free support
group, call Bruce Blair,
440-997-6680
, or
Denise McNabb,
440-997-6298
.
To schedule an appointment with
Dr. Muthusamy, call
440-994-7544
.
ACMC Pulse •
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