First VA mammography unit in Oklahoma opens

Women Veterans in eastern Oklahoma can now receive mammography screenings at VA thanks to the first VA mammography unit to open in Oklahoma.

Mammography is an X-ray exam of breast tissue and the best breast cancer screening tool available. The new unit produces state-of-the-art images called mammograms, which help diagnose breast cancer as well as other breast conditions.

This new screening service is the latest in the ever-growing list of services and programs offered by Eastern Oklahoma VA. Chief Radiologist Dr. Daniel Roswig said the new unit has been a highly anticipated addition to the Ernest Childers VA Outpatient Clinic in Muskogee.

National VA radiology representatives, General Electric officials and representatives from the National Teleradiology Program (NTP) were all present at a special ribbon cutting ceremony held at the clinic.

“This is not only the first in-house VA mammography unit to open in Oklahoma, but it is also the first newly established mammography program in VA to partner with NTP to offer telescreening services,” said Roswig. “Many facets of VA were instrumental in bringing this to fruition, including our radiology staff, the Women Veterans Program and IT. We commend them for their roles in bringing the system online and embracing new technology and procedures, further supporting our Veterans’ medical needs.”

“More women should get their mammograms. It could save their life.”

Air Force Veteran Ronda McHale (on the left in the photo) was the first to use the new equipment and encourages others to be proactive with their health. “It was a really good experience. I am glad they now have the Mammography option available at VA. I have been very happy with the care I have received here. More women should follow-up and get their mammograms. It could save their life.”

Radiology supervisor Jennifer Foutch says experiences like McHale’s are why they have been so excited about this project. “The convenience the new service will provide women Veterans in support of their health is such a positive thing. We have already screened almost 90 women since we began. They are so happy to now be able to receive this service along with others at VA. It’s just a great development for our facility and our Veterans.”

The radiology department is not alone in their excitement for the opening of the new unit. Women Veterans program manager Michele Reeves (on the right in the photo) says her team is thrilled to be able to offer more support to the women they serve in their program with the new addition. “Our Veterans will be able to get their mammography screenings completed here and the results will be readily available in our system for seamless continuity of care. It will streamline the process immensely and helps to show our Women Veterans that VA is dedicated to caring for their unique needs by investing in the technology to provide them with top notch care,” Reeves said.