Madison Medical Center (MMC) has announced plans to acquire a new mammography machine, thanks to a substantial anonymous donation aimed at enhancing the facility’s cancer screening capabilities. The donation will significantly aid in the hospital’s efforts to purchase the machine by 2026, following the breakdown of its previous equipment in March due to a software malfunction.
The former mammography machine was able to conduct approximately 30 scans each month. In the interim, MMC has relied on a Mobile Mammography Van operated by the Missouri Baptist Medical Center in St. Louis, which visits every three months. This service, driven by Theresa Taylor, has been vital in providing essential screenings to the community.
The MMC Board of Directors received the donation during a recent meeting, with treasurer Connie Matthews announcing the donor’s commitment to supporting the new mammography initiative. MMC’s Chief Executive Officer, Lisa Twidwell, indicated that the hospital is considering purchasing a refurbished 3D mammography machine, with an estimated cost of up to $250,000.
The previous machine offered only 2D imaging, which is less effective than the advanced 3D technology now available. According to Eric Horton, the Radiology Manager at MMC, the 3D machines provide significantly better image quality and have been approved by the FDA since 2011. Twidwell confirmed that the hospital currently employs sufficient staff and technicians for the operation of the new machine, with the option to hire additional personnel if necessary.
MMC Chairperson Denny Ward expressed his enthusiasm for the donation, stating, “I think it’s a wonderful thing. I would be in favor of moving forward.” The board unanimously voted to accept the contribution, marking a step forward in the hospital’s commitment to improving patient care.
The outreach coordinator for the mammography van, Theresa Taylor, noted that while she enjoys visiting Fredericktown, it is only quarterly. She expressed a desire for the town to have its own machine to ensure more consistent access to screenings. Taylor visits the area nearly once a month and also collaborates with the Madison County Health Department.
“We appreciate the opportunity to help Madison Medical Center and will continue to go however long we’re needed,” Taylor stated. The Baptist HealthCare Center bus is capable of providing between 20 to 25 mammograms during each visit.
Twidwell mentioned that the hospital is currently gathering quotes from equipment vendors to expedite the purchasing process. Once the order is placed, the new machine will undergo inspection to meet state and federal regulations, further ensuring quality and safety for patients in the community.
