New WMHS Diagnostic Center at Sacred Heart Now Open

Diagnostic imaging and laboratory services are now even more convenient at the Western Maryland Health System with the opening of new WMHS Diagnostic Center at Sacred Heart. Located adjacent to Sacred Heart Hospital, the newly constructed $19 million facility includes a variety of diagnostic radiology services and a blood drawing site. The addition of outpatient cardiology services, such as EKG's, echocardiograms, and Holter monitoring, is set for January.

Diagnostic imaging services available include general diagnostic X-rays and fluoroscopy, which uses a contrast agent to help visualize the organ or area of concern via X-ray. Also available is Computed Tomography (CT), better known as CAT scanning. A CT scan provides detailed, cross-section view of all types of tissues and is an excellent tool for studying the chest and abdomen.

The WMHS Diagnostic Center also provides magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), one of the safest and most advanced diagnostic tools available today. It combines a powerful magnet with advanced computer technology and radio waves to produce accurate, detailed pictures of organs and tissues in order to diagnose a variety of medical conditions. Also available is magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), a noninvasive technique used to assess blood flow within vessels.

The new facility includes a separate suite for mammography services, which play a central role in diagnosing breast cancer. WMHS also uses the an R2 Image Checker, a computer-aided detection that helps even the most experienced radiologists in identifying the characteristics of breast cancer. The suite also is equipped for stereotactic breast biopsy, a less invasive approach for further examination of suspicious lesions than a surgical biopsy.

Another diagnostic service available is bone density testing or DexaScan, which is used to determine the effects of osteoporosis. Ultrasound examinations are performed at the WMHS Diagnostic Center at Sacred Heart, too.

Also located on the first floor of the WMHS Diagnostic Center with the imaging services is the blood drawing area, giving patients easy access to outpatient diagnostic services.

The new WMHS Diagnostic Center at Sacred Heart is open Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. It is also open on Saturdays from 7:00 a.m. until noon for lab and mammography services. Appointments for imaging services can be scheduled by calling WMHS Centralized Scheduling at 301-723-1200 or toll free at 866-369-1122. No appointment is necessary for lab services. There is also plenty of parking in front of the WMHS Diagnostic Center, as well as next to the building.