Kootenai Health and Kootenai Outpatient Imaging, northern Idaho’s leader in imaging services, are pleased to announce the opening of two new women’s imaging centers, one in Coeur d’Alene and one in Post Falls.
The new centers feature the highest quality imaging equipment to help ensure early breast cancer detection for the women of northern Idaho. They were designed with input from women to make a better experience for women. The new locations offer the best equipment in a calm, healing environment in which women feel supported during their screenings. They will also include enhanced screening options for women with dense or fibrous breast tissue.
“We are excited to announce the opening of two new women’s imaging and screening centers at Kootenai Outpatient Imaging, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including advanced mammography, bone density screening, and automated breast ultrasound,” said Tim Swartz, executive director of ancillary and support services at Kootenai Health. “These centers are staffed by expert radiology technologists and fellowship-trained radiologists, ensuring the highest level of care and precision.”
The Coeur d’Alene location features two new 3D mammogram units, an auto-breast ultrasound, and a DEXA bone density scanner.
The Post Falls location features a new 3D mammogram unit, a DEXA bone density scanner, and an ultrasound machine designed specifically for obstetric and pelvic ultrasounds.
“What’s wonderful about where we are currently in the state of breast imaging, and particularly at Kootenai Health, is we have multiple different modalities for the early detection of breast cancer,” said radiologist Luke Grauke, M.D. “We have mammography, ultrasound and MRI, and we have them all in the same location. We are providing a warm, inviting environment for women with exceptional technology.”
The 3Dimensions mammogram units provide higher quality 3D images for radiologists and a more comfortable mammography experience for patients. Its sharper images and smarter technologies help find invasive cancers regardless of age or breast density.
The automated breast ultrasound, ABUS, is the first FDA-approved supplemental ultrasound screening technology specifically designed for detecting cancer in dense breast tissue. The inclusion of AI-driven technology and consistent readings make it easier for trained radiologists to detect areas of concern early and with greater precision.
Women’s input encouraged Kootenai to provide both mammography and bone density screening at the Women’s Imaging Centers’ so both screenings can easily be scheduled for the same visit. The DEXA bone density scanner is used to measure bone mineral density to assess bone health and diagnose conditions like osteoporosis. Bone density screenings are important for women after menopause when bones can become more porous and brittle.
The new centers align with Kootenai Outpatient Imaging’s NAPBC breast imaging center of excellence standards. NAPBC is the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers administered by the American College of Surgeons. Accreditation can only be earned by centers that undergo a rigorous evaluation and review of their performance to demonstrate their commitment to the highest level of quality breast care. NAPBC accreditation means women can be assured they are receiving the highest quality care.
Kootenai Outpatient Imaging and the Women’s Imaging Centers are accredited by the American College of Radiology as Breast Imaging Centers of Excellence. This means the center is meeting all standards to both produce the highest image quality. It is the gold-standard in radiology and means imaging studies here are on par with the best in the nation.
All imaging work done at Kootenai Outpatient Imaging’s Women’s Imaging Center is read by local, fellowship-trained breast radiologists. Their training and expertise is focused exclusively on breast health and cancer detection.
Every sonographer working at the Women’s Imaging Centers is credentialed specifically in breast ultrasound by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). This accreditation ensures that every staff member is working at the highest level of quality and safety.
All mammography technologists are also certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), further verifying their professional commitment to the highest standards of patient care.
“The Women’s Imaging Centers enhance our offerings as an accredited breast center,” said Swartz. “This expansion ensures greater access to high-quality diagnostic services and supports our community with the latest advancements in women’s health.”
Kootenai Outpatient Imaging’s Women’s Imaging Center Coeur d’Alene location is in the Interlake Medical Building, 700 Ironwood Drive, suite 366. The Post Falls location is in Kootenai Health’s Post Falls medical center at 1300 East Mullan Avenue, suite 400. Both centers are open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday with easy scheduling through the MyChart app, online, or by calling (208) 625-6300. Next day appointments are often available.
