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March
20, 2007
Media
Release
Headwaters
Health Care Centre
Enhanced
Service and Better Access for Patients
Orangeville
– Headwaters Health Care Centre has purchased a new cardiovascular
ultrasound machine to improve access and enhance service for our patients.
The
addition of a third ultrasound machine allows Headwaters to perform 30
percent more ultrasound tests annually*, allowing more people in our
community to receive care close to home.
The
technology includes an advanced echocardiography system to provide images
of the workings of a heart. This test allows a physician to study the size
and shape of the heart muscle and evaluate its function, valves, and the
flow of blood through the heart.
“The
introduction of new ultrasound technology at the hospital advances cardiac
care for our patients,” said
Bob Baynham
, Headwaters President and CEO. “It will assist physicians in obtaining
clearer images of the heart, which will enhance diagnosis and
treatment.”
In
the last six months Headwaters has introduced a number of new services for
heart patients. In October 2006, Headwaters signed an agreement with
Southlake Regional Health Centre’s Cardiac Care Program to provide
around-the-clock access to a comprehensive range of heart procedures. In
January 2007, Headwaters introduced new cardiac diagnostic testing
including full service holter monitoring and loop recorders, which
measures a patient’s heartbeat over a period of time.
“Providing
access locally to health services is a strategic priority for Headwaters
Health Care Centre,” said
Steve Doney
, Chair, Headwaters Health Care Foundation. “The outstanding generosity
of our community allows Headwaters to purchase the $1 million of new
equipment required annually to provide this level of care.”
The
Diagnostic Imaging Department at Headwaters has three state-of-the-art
ultrasound machines. Ultrasound imaging is a non-invasive procedure that
obtains images from inside the body through the use of high-frequency
sound waves. Ultrasound can be used to monitor fetal development during
pregnancy and examine many internal organs, including the heart, bladder,
blood vessels, gallbladder, pancreas, and kidneys.
Ultrasound
tests require booked appointments which are available 7 days a week. The
Diagnostic Imaging (ultrasound) Department does offer some evening
appointment times. Appointments can be booked by calling 519-941-2410. A
signed physician referral is required for all ultrasound tests.
*
Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2006 – 9,361 ultrasound procedures performed at
Headwaters with two ultrasound machines
-30-
For
further information:
Contact
Kathryn Hunt 519-941-2702, ext. 2248
khunt@headwatershealth.ca
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