A significant anonymous donation will support the Madison Medical Center (MMC) in acquiring a new mammography machine, with plans to finalize the purchase by 2026. The existing machine has been out of service since March due to a software malfunction, according to MMC Radiology Manager Eric Horton. Previously, the machine facilitated approximately 30 scans each month.
In the interim, MMC has depended on a mobile mammography van, which is dispatched every three months from the Missouri Baptist Medical Center in St. Louis, driven by Theresa Taylor. During a recent board meeting, MMC Treasurer Connie Matthews reported that the anonymous donor expressed interest in funding the new mammography machine after learning about the hospital’s needs.
The hospital is considering the purchase of a refurbished 3D mammography machine with a budget of up to $250,000. This new technology offers significant improvements over the previous version, which provided 2D images. Matthews noted that 3D machines have been approved by the FDA since 2011 and deliver enhanced image quality.
According to MMC CEO Lisa Twidwell, the hospital currently has the necessary staffing and technicians to operate the new machine and can hire additional personnel if required. “Personally, I think it’s a wonderful thing,” stated MMC Chairperson Denny Ward. The board unanimously voted to accept the donation, marking a crucial step forward for the facility.
Taylor, the outreach coordinator for the mobile mammography van, expressed her desire for the community to have its own machine, as her visits are limited to once every three months. She frequently travels to Fredericktown and the Madison County Health Department, where she also provides services.
“We appreciate the opportunity to help Madison Medical Center and will continue to go however long we’re needed,” Taylor remarked. The Baptist HealthCare Center bus can facilitate between 20 and 25 mammograms each visit, providing vital services to the community.
Twidwell mentioned that the process of gathering vendor equipment quotes will take several months before the order is placed. After the purchase, the new machine will be subject to inspections by state or federal regulatory agencies, ensuring it meets all necessary standards. This initiative not only enhances the medical capabilities of MMC but also demonstrates a strong commitment to improving healthcare access within the community.
