Emergency Care
Hardin County General Hospital is a Critical Access Facility. If a patient arrives at our facility in need of critical services that are beyond our scope of ability, we transfer patients to a hospital that is able to take care of higher level care needs.
Our Emergency Department is accessible 24/7 and fully equipped and staffed to handle emergency situations. We are staffed with Registered Nurses around the clock. RNs are assisted by LPNs and CNAs. All Emergency Room staff are kept current in Basic Life Support certification. RN’s have a wide variety of specialty training including: Advanced Cardiac Life Support, Pediatric Advanced Life support, Burn Care Certification, and Trauma Nurse Certification.
A physician is on call at all times and readily accessible for any emergency that may arise.
What to Expect:
· You will be greeted by a nurse who will ask you to briefly explain your illness or injury so that your care can be prioritized based on your symptoms.
· A registration clerk will ask you for basic information to begin your medical record (age, current physician, insurance coverage, etc.)
· After your medical evaluation and care is complete the ER provider will discuss the discharge process or admission process with you, depending on the outcome of the evaluation.
Helpful Hints
· For Your Protection—HCGH cannot be responsible for lost or stolen items. Please secure all valuables by leaving them at home or with a family member.
· Visitors—Due to limited space and so that we may better serve our patients visitors are asked to wait in the waiting room. Exceptions will be made for a parent to remain with a minor child or for someone to be with a patient who needs help with communication. Other exceptions can be made by the physician as needed.
· Arriving Prepared—Please be prepared for your ER visit when possible. Bring with you a current list of medications and allergies, we will be asking you information about previous illness and surgeries. Bring proper identification, insurance information, social security cards, physician and employer name and phone numbers. All of this information will better facilitate your registration.
Emergency Room patients will be seen based on severity. Please remember to bring insurance information and photo ID.
Any threatening or inappropriate behavior at Hardin County General Hospital and Clinic will not be tolerated and could result in law enforcement involvement and/or being barred from the hospital and clinic.
It’s the law!
If you have a medical emergency or are in labor you have the right to receive, within the capabilities of this hospital’s staff and facilities:
· An appropriate medical screening examination
· Necessary stabilizing treatment (including treatment for an unborn child)
· And if necessary an appropriate transfer to another facility
Even if you cannot pay or do not have medical insurance or you are not entitled to Medicare or Medicaid
This hospital does participate in the Medicaid program.
For more information, call Andrea Bebout, RN, Director of Nursing, or Angela Vaughn, Emergency Room Coordinator, (618)-285-6634 or email her andrea.bebout@ilhcgh.org or angela.vaughn@ilhcgh.org
Laboratory
The Hardin County General Hospital Laboratory Department serves both in-hospital patients and out-patients to provide comprehensive diagnostic and treatment related testing. The Laboratory is equipped with state of the art equipment that allows testing quality equal to that provided by the “big city hospitals” without the drive and hassle that are typically associated with the larger facilities.
The Laboratory provides care to our patients by providing preventive and diagnostic analysis of all specimens of the human body. From the results of these diagnostic tests your healthcare provider can provide appropriate treatment before, during, and after diagnosis of most health problems. The HCGH Laboratory offers the quick service and accurate results you deserve. Laboratory services include:
· Arterial Blood Gases
· Blood Bank and Transfusion Services
· Cardiac Assays
· Chemistry
· Cholesterol Testing
· Coagulation
· Cultures for Bacterial Identification and Antibiotic Sensitivity testing
· Drug Screening (Non-DOT and DOT)
· Glucose Monitoring
· Hematology
· Therapeutic Phlebotomy
· Registered Drug Screen Collections for Various Corporations
· Urinalysis
· Viral Screening Testing
Our laboratory staff is fully trained in all areas and we strive to provide high quality accurate testing and timely result reporting. We perform over 16,000 blood tests each month and we offer a full service laboratory providing you services 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.
Patient Instructions
When you come for your lab test be sure to bring the lab test order from your doctor and your insurance card. Register at the front desk before coming to the laboratory. IF you are having a drug screen collected you will also need a valid photo ID. Patients are seen on a first come first serve basis whenever possible; however, there may be a delay if laboratory staff are attending to emergency or acutely ill patients.
Fasting
Some lab tests require the patient to be fasting. The laboratory defines fasting as no food (including candy, gum, and mints) or drink for 8—12 hours before blood is drawn. Patients may still take their medication with small amounts of water unless their physician has told them otherwise.
Questions
Our laboratory staff is very caring and knowledgeable concerning the collection of specimens and clinical testing and they are eager to assist physicians and their patients with any questions or concerns the patients may have before, during, and after your visit.
The laboratory professionals at HCGH include: a Medical Director (Board Certified Pathologist), Clinical Laboratory Scientists (Medical Technologists) with a 4 year Bachelors degree, Clinical (Medical) Laboratory Technicians with a 2 year Associates Degree in Medical Laboratory Technology and trained Phlebotomists.
The laboratory staff at HCGH has the technology and expertise to perform approximately 95% of the tests ordered by the physicians. The small percentages of tests that are not performed in-house are referred to a qualified reference laboratory.
The laboratory at HCGH is CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement amendments) certified and is inspected every two years by the Commission of Laboratory Accreditation (COLA) to verify that the services rendered abide by the current regulations and best practices of the profession.
HCGH laboratory department received a PERFECT inspection from COLA in April of 2010. It was commented that our laboratory was, “Head and shoulders above the rest”. This is due to the staff’s hard work and commitment to quality service at Hardin County General Hospital. This is the kind of service you want and deserve as a patient. This is the kind of service you’ll get here at HCGH!
However, the staff must refer you to our Medical Records department or your healthcare provider for copies of your test results and their interpretation. Please feel free to contact the department should you need additional information. The main laboratory phone number is 618-285-6634 ext: 314
The following website may be used to look up more information about your lab tests:
The laboratory staff as well as the entire staff of Hardin County General Hospital looks forward to serving you and your healthcare needs now and for many years to come. It is the mission of the HCGH laboratory to provide the utmost in laboratory services to our community.
Radiology
Hardin County General Hospital Imaging Department is pleased to provide the highest quality patient care to our community, as well as providing for surrounding communities and counties. Our friendly, courteous, and caring staff are licensed by the IEMA Department of Nuclear Safety and are registered with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. The Imaging Department is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for emergency services; 7:00a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday for outpatient services. A highly competent and courteous secretary handles patient scheduling, filing, and various other tasks.
Imaging Services provided include General Diagnostic Radiography, Computed Tomography (CT), Mammography, Ultrasound, Mobile Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and Mobile Bone Density Imaging Studies. In June of 2008, CR (Computed Radiography) and PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) were implemented. CR is a system that enables the technologist to acquire an x-ray image digitally with an imaging plate as opposed to using film. The PACS stores the images and allows the technologists to transmit images via highly protected internet to the reading Radiologists and to the ordering physicians to view for interpretation.
A Board Certified Radiologist interprets all exams.
Diagnostic Radiology
An x-ray allows your doctor to see pictures of the inside of your body. It’s a fast, easy, and safe way for your doctor to assess conditions ranging from broken bones to pneumonia and cancer. An x-ray machine produces an x-ray beam using a tube that is carefully focused on the body part being examined. The machine produces a tiny burst of radiation, at a safe level, that passes through your body and records an image on film or on a specialized plate.
What to expect:
In general, you undress whatever part of your body that is under examination. You may wear a gown to cover yourself during your exam, depending on which area is being x-rayed. You may also be asked to remove jewelry, eyeglasses, and any metal objects or clothing that may obscure the x-ray image. As you lie, sit, or stand between the x-ray machine and the imaging plate, the technologist positions your body to obtain the necessary views. Once you’re in the proper position, the technologist enters a shielded control booth. During the X-ray exposure, you remain still and hold your breath to avoid moving, which can cause blurring of the images. The technologist may take x-rays from multiple angles; for example, one from the front and one from the side of your chest. Before some types of x-rays you may be given a liquid called contrast. Contrast, such as barium and iodine, help outline a specific area of your body on the x-ray image. You may swallow the contrast or receive it as an injection.
Diagnostic Radiography services offered:
· General X-ray Exams
· IVP (Intravenous Pyelography)
· Limited GI Tract Barium Studies
CT (Computed Tomography)
A CT (CAT scan) examination utilizes conventional x-rays. The patient simply lies on a table, which glides into place inside a doughnut shaped machine called a gantry. An x-ray tube inside the machine rotates around the patient’s body. The scanner transmits data that is gathered by passing small doses of radiation through the body to a special computer that reorganizes the data into highly detailed images of the body area being scanned. Most CT exams require the use of oral or IV contrast agents. These agents show up on the images “highlighting” specific areas within the body to aid in the interpretation of the exam.
What to expect:
If the exam you are having requires the use of an oral contrast agent as mentioned above, you will be instructed on how and when to drink it. If the exam requires the use of IV (intravenous) “dye”, you will have a heparin lock put in a vein to administer it by injection. Most exams require you not to eat or drink after the midnight prior to the examination. If you are over 50 years of age, or meet other certain criteria, you may be required to have a lab test to check the function of your kidneys. Prior to being scanned, you will be asked to remove any metal objects that may interfere with the exam. You may be asked to put on a gown. Sweat clothes are good to wear since they do not have metal closures on them. You may lie on the table on you back, side, or stomach depending on the area to be scanned. While the table is moving, you may need to hold your breath to avoid blurring the images. You may hear clicking and whirring noises. After the exam you can return to your normal routine.
CT services offered:
· CT scans of the head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, spine, and extremities
Mammography
Mammography is a screening tool for the early detection of breast cancer and other abnormalities of the breast. A mammogram is an x-ray image of the breast produced by a special x-ray machine utilizing a very lose dose of radiation. Specially trained and certified technologists staff the department. We accept self-referred patients. i.e.: for screening mammograms, the patient can call the Imaging Department to make an appointment without seeing a physician first.
Hardin County General Hospital Mammography Department is an ACR (American college of Radiology) accredited facility.
What to expect:
You will be given a gown and asked to remove neck jewelry and clothing from the waist up. It’s a good idea to wear a two-piece outfit that day. You will stand in front of an x-ray machine specially designed for mammography. The technologist places one of your breasts on a platform that holds the x-ray film and raises or lowers the platform to match your height. Your breast is gradually pressed against the platform by a clear plastic plate. Pressure is applied for a few seconds to spread out the breast tissue. The pressure isn’t harmful, but you may find it uncomfortable. If you have to much discomfort, inform the technologist. After images are made of both your breasts. You may be asked to wait while the technologist checks the quality of the images. If the views are inadequate for technical reasons, you may have to repeat part of the test. The entire procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes. Afterward, you may dress and resume normal activity.
Mammography Services Offered:
· Annual/Screening exams
· Diagnostic exams—for discovered lumps, soreness, or unusual findings on a screening mammogram.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound allows doctors to see images of muscles, tendons, and many internal organs. The ultrasound machine produces sound waves of certain frequencies that are too high for most people to hear. These sound waves bounce off of more dense internal structures, like bones or muscle, and are detected by the ultrasound machine.
Our professional sonographers are registered by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography in vascular, obstetrical/gynecology, and breast Sonography. The radiologist who interprets the ultrasound images is board certified by the American College of Radiology.
Ultrasound is staffed 5 days a week and at least 8 hours a day. Routine outpatient hours are Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Two days a week we offer evening hours until 9:00 p.m.
A doctor’s order is required before an ultrasound exam can be scheduled.
Ultrasound Services Offered:
· Cardiovascular Ultrasound (echocardiograms and carotids)
· Peripheral Arterial Ultrasound (upper and lower extremity)
· Peripheral Venous Ultrasound (upper and lower extremity)
· Obstetrical Ultrasound (first, second, and third trimester)
· Pelvic Ultrasound (trans-abdominal/trans-vaginal)
· Abdominal Ultrasound (liver, gallbladder, kidneys, pancreas, spleen, aorta, IVC, CBD)
· Aorta Screening Ultrasound (aorta)
· Renal Arterial Ultrasound (renal arteries, kidneys, and aorta)
· Small Parts Ultrasound (breast, thyroid, and testicular)
For more information about ultrasound, you can call us at:
(618)-285-6634, ext. 312 and 358
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
An MRI exam is very similar to a CT exam. However, an MRI exam utilizes magnetism and radio waves instead of x-rays to produce an image. A computer aids in the production of the very highly detailed images.
Alliance Imaging, Inc. provides HCGH with this imaging service. A large truck with the equipment permanently on board comes on Saturday of every week. Qualified technologists employed by Alliance Imaging performs the exams. Referring physicians can call the Radiology Department at HCGH to schedule an MRI exam.
What to expect:
You will be asked to remove any metallic objects from your possession. You may have to put on a hospital gown. The technologist will simply ask you to lie down on a cushioned table which will automatically move into the magnet after you have been comfortably positioned for scanning. The technologist will be in contact with you throughout the exam. When the MRI scan begins, you will hear a muffled thumping sound which will last for several minutes. Just relax, even take a nap, but try to lie as still as possible since any movement during this time will blur the picture. The average complete MRI scan takes 20-60 minutes. Other than sound, you should experience no other sensation during scanning. When scanning is complete, the technologist will return to assist you off of the table.
MRI Services Offered:
· MRI of the head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, spine, and extremities
· MRA exams
Bone Density Study
Years ago, the only time osteoporosis-a disease that causes bones to become more fragile and more likely to break-could be detected was after you broke a bone. By then, however, your bones might already be quite weak. Today a bone density test, also called densitometry or DEXA scan, can determine if you have osteoporosis or are at risk of osteoporosis before you break any bones.
Imaging Resource Centers, LTD., from Dayton, Ohio, provides HCGH with this imaging service. A large van with the equipment on board comes once a month on a Wednesday. A qualified technologist employed by Imaging Resource Centers performs the exams. Referring physicians can call the Radiology Department at HCGH to schedule a DEXA scan.
What to expect:
Bone density tests are easy, fast, and painless. Virtually no preparation is needed. During this test you lie on a padded platform for a few minutes while an imager, a mechanical arm-like device, passes over your body. It won’t touch you. This test usually takes five to ten minutes to complete. You will be asked to remove any metal in the area to be scanned. It is best to wear sweat clothes or other clothing that does not have metal closures the day of your exam to avoid having to put on a gown.
Rehabilitation
Hardin County General Hospital’s Rehabilitation department has a dedicated staff that provides physical, occupational, and speech therapies to both in-patients and out-patients.
The goal of the Rehabilitation department is to provide each patient with a program specifically customized to their needs intended to improve their physical function, ability to perform activities of daily living, and to improve their overall quality of life.
For more information on Rehabilitation services offered, call (618)-285-6634 ext 326
Physical Therapy
Physical Therapy works towards the preservation, enhancement, or restoration of movement and physical function impaired or threatened by disability, injury, or disease through the use of therapeutic exercise, modalities, stretching, home programs, conditioning, training, and patient and family education.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy enables patients with physical or developmental impairments or limitations to engage in meaningful activities of daily living which include all things from self care to job skills. Occupational therapy also specializes in fine motor training and upper extremity rehabilitation.
Speech Therapy
Speech therapy applies to disorders affecting a person’s speech, language, cognition, voice, and swallowing as well as the rehabilitative or corrective treatment of physical and/or cognitive deficits or disorders resulting in difficulty with communication or swallowing.
ASTYM
Hardin County General Hospital’s Rehabilitation department is now offering Augmented Soft Tissue Manipulation (ASTYM) provided by the certified staff of Joyner Therapy Services. To find out more about ASTYM please click on the link below. http://www.joynertherapyservices.com/services-offered/soft-tissue-astym-system.html
Anodyne Treatment
Anodyne is a non-invasive treatment using infrared light therapy that is indicated to increase a patient’s circulation as well as decrease their pain, stiffness, and muscle spasms.
Respiratory Therapy
The Respiratory Staff at Hardin County General Hospital is staffed with certified and licensed personnel 24 hours a day 7 days a week. We provide services to in-patients and out-patients of all age groups.
The following Out-patient services are offered:
· Pulmonary Function Test/Spirometry— this test can diagnose lung disease and measure the severity of lung problems. This test lasts about 1 hour. Special preparation: do not take breathing medications 6 hours before testing.
· Electrocardiogram (EKG) - A test that records the electrical activity of the heart. Test lasts about 10 minutes and no special preparation is needed.
· Oximetry—O2 Saturation—A simple test of monitoring the percent of oxygen in the blood. Test lasts approximately 5 minutes and no special preparation is needed.
· 24 Hour Oximetry—A test of monitoring the percent of oxygen in the blood for 24 hours. No special preparation is needed.
· Holter Monitor—A test that records the electric activity of the heart during regular activity. Special preparation: Bring a list of your medications.
· Sleep Study/CPAP Trial—A test to see if a patient has sleep apnea. The patient is monitored during the night in the sleep lab. What to expect: be at the lab by 8:30pm, enter through the Emergency Room door and ask for Sleep Lab. The Sleep Lab is a motel-like atmosphere with a full size bed, television, and attached bathroom. Shower is available for patient. Be sure to come with clean hair, avoid naps the day of the test, no caffeine after 2pm, and bring a list of your medications.
Diagnostic Services:
· Sputum Induction: to produce a mucous sample for laboratory testing.
· Pulse Oximetry: to determine if your body is getting enough oxygen.
· Peak Flow Meter: to measure how fast air comes out of your lungs.
Treatment Services:
· Oxygen Therapy
· Aerosol Therapy: to deliver medication to the lungs through a fine mist as you inhale.
· Chest Physical Therapy (CPT): to loosen mucous in the lung and allow you to cough productively.
· Incentive Spirometry: Deep breathing exercise to prevent lung problems.
· Ventilator: support the basic function of the lungs and to temporarily assist a patient who is having trouble breathing.
Utilization Review and Risk Management
The team in Risk Management/Utilization Review work collaboratively with the physicians and all other departments to identify unexpected occurrences which could create liability for the hospital and staff and over- or under-utilization of services rendered.
They also review patient records for compliance with hospital regulations and policy. Among other tasks performed they contact our payers to help ensure proper reimbursement for our services through the pre-certification process of insurance companies, public aid, and other applicable entities.
Hours of service are from 8:00am-4:30pm, Monday through Friday except on holidays.
To receive services call (618)-285-6634 ext. 341
Fax: (618)285-6630
For more information, call:
Gina Shaffer, RN Coordinator, ext 342
Social Services
Sharing time to help people do more
Open and understanding to the care
Compassionate in every way
Improving lives day by day
Always there to offer hope
Lifting spirits so others can cope
Willing to go the extra mile
Offering solutions with a smile
Reaching out to help you revive
Keeping you in control of your life
Our department of Social Services is here to help you work through problems that often accompany an illness. They provide:
· support in coping with the stress that can go with difficult medical diagnoses or treatments
· counseling and guidance by talking over problems and helping find solutions
· help in communication among patients, family and members of the health care team
· day to day help locating the appropriate resources for helping with practical concerns
For example, the social work staff can help you with:
· hospital procedures
· post hospital planning
· financial problems
· emotional stress
· pain management therapy
All discussions and records are strictly confidential.
Our Social Services department works in the community as well to offer public health awareness education at the local schools and at community events.
For more information contact Angela Oxford, Director of Social Services.
618-285-6634 Ext. 341
Nursing
Hardin County General Hospital has a dedicated team of doctors and nurses who, along with other health care professionals provide personalized, compassionate care to all of the patients that we serve. Our motto is “caring for your family with ours”. Together we strive everyday to meet the goals of each and every individual patient that we are given the privilege to care for and we very much appreciate the opportunity to do so!
The Nursing Department of Hardin County General Hospital works in collaboration with all hospital departments to provide the best possible care to our patients. In an effort to ensure public safety and public trust, inquiries regarding staffing levels and staff competency may be made by calling 618-285-6634 ext. 324 to speak to the Director of Nursing. Nursing care is available through emergency care, in-patients, out-patients, swing bed, and observation patients of all ages, with varying degrees of illness or injury. Nursing services are provided by qualified Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, Certified Nurse Aides, Nurse Assistants and Ward Clerks with Licensed Nursing staff highly trained in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Trauma Nurse Specialists (TNS). Personalized care and a highly trained staff is one of our greatest assets in providing care for our community.
Adequate nurse staffing is critical to the delivery of quality patient care. At Hardin County General Hospital, we work hard to meet the healthcare needs of our patients through continued education and technological advancements.
Health Information
The purpose of the Health Information Department is to maintain a confidential, permanent, centralized file of medical records documenting the treatment and evaluation of in-patient, out-patient, and emergency room records. The department is open Monday through Friday from 7am to 4:30pm
All records are maintained in accordance with accepted professional principles and standards as set forth by Federal and State regulations and accrediting agencies.
Patients can contact the Health Information Department during operating hours to receive a copy of their medical records. An authorization must be signed by the patient and/or guardian of the patient. A photo ID may also be required. There is a fee for copying the records.
You can find the release form below
DIETARY
The Dietary Department prepares meals for in-patients, out-patients, E.R., employees, and staff meetings. All personnel have a Food Service Certificate. We have a Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist on staff who is available one day a month to in-patients and out-patients. Hours of service: 6:00am-7:30pm For an appointment to see a Dietitian or for more information, call (618)-285-6634 ext 306.
CARDIOPULMONARY SERVICES
We are blessed to live in a region with strong communities in which we feel comfortable and content. But when we have a heart problem that may require specialized care, it often means we are faced with the choice of leaving our community or worse, putting off care. This is not the case when your specialized care is provided by providers at our local hospital, Dr. Sanjay Bose and Courtney Spivey, NP. Our mission at HCGH is to deliver as much care as possible locally.
Our Cardiology Clinic is a specialty service that offers a wide range of cardiac-specific services to our local residents and patients. Our team of medical professionals offers years of experience in cardiac health and wellness to help you achieve better-quality healthcare, right here at home.
From diagnosis to treatment to ongoing management, our staff provides comprehensive, patient-centered care. In one convenient location we offer a wide range of testing and treatment services, including:
Cardiology services. We offer a full range of medical services and preventive care designed to keep your heart healthy through every stage of life.
Cardiac screening and diagnosis. Our cardiology team uses the most advanced imaging technology and the latest techniques to diagnose and screen for common and complex heart conditions. We are fully equipped to perform a range of tests – from electrocardiograms (ECG) to stress tests to nuclear stress test and cardiac CT scan – and provide you with an efficient, accurate diagnosis.
Condition management and follow-up care. Our providers will provide long-term care to help you manage your condition or recover from a procedure or surgery.
Cardiac rehabilitation: Our outpatient cardiac rehabilitation program provides customized support, education and supervised exercise to help patients return to normal daily activities. Cardiac rehabilitation is recommended for a variety of reasons:
Heart attack
Coronary artery bypass surgery
Heart valve surgery
Heart transplant
Angioplasty with or without stent
Cardiac monitoring. If you experience a heart attack or another cardiac event, our specialists offer comprehensive monitoring services close to home.
Pacemaker management. If you need a pacemaker, our cardiologist or advanced cardiology practitioner will advise device implantation. Pacemaker checks can also be performed on site.
Diagnostic Procedures:
An echocardiogram, or echo, is a non-invasive, painless procedure that uses ultrasound to provide pictures of the heart's valves and chambers and surrounding blood vessels. The test enables the technician and physician to evaluate the pumping action of the heart. Our expert staff performs two types of echocardiograms. Your doctor will determine which is best for you.
Stress testing provides information about how your heart works during physical stress. Some heart problems are easier to diagnose when your heart is working hard and beating fast, and you may not have any signs or symptoms of heart disease when your heart is at rest. During stress testing, you walk or run on a treadmill to make your heart work hard and beat fast.
Exercise Nuclear Stress Test This test is very similar to the exercise stress test, except you will receive a small amount of a radioactive imaging substance such as thallium or sestamibi through an intravenous line. Images of your heart are taken before exercise to show how the substance has flowed through your blood to your heart; after exercising on a treadmill, a second set of images is taken to compare to the resting set of images. The substance can show areas of low blood flow through the heart and areas of damaged heart muscle.
Lexiscan Nuclear Stress Test (coming this Spring) If your doctor wants you to have a nuclear stress test but you're unable to exercise adequately, you will receive Lexican, a prescription drug to increase the blood flow to the heart. The doctor then will administer a small amount of a radioactive substance such as thallium or sestamibi through an intravenous line. Images of your heart are taken to show how the substance has flowed through your blood to your heart. The substance can show areas of low blood flow through the heart and areas of damaged heart muscle.
Stress Echocardiogram A stress echocardiogram starts with a resting echocardiogram; then you will be asked to walk on a treadmill and at certain intervals, including walking faster and on an incline. Your blood pressure and heart rhythm are monitored throughout the procedure. Additional echocardiogram images are taken as your heart rate increases; the images will show whether any parts of the heart muscle do not work as well as your heart rate increases.
Dobutamine Stress Echocardiogram For patients unable to exercise on a treadmill for a stress test, a physician may use an intravenous medication called dobutamine, a medication that will stimulate your heart, causing it to beat faster and mimicking the effects of exercise on the heart. As with a stress echocardiogram, we monitor your blood pressure and heart rhythm and take images of your heart as your heart rate increase.
Cardiac CTA: A coronary computed tomography angiogram (CTA) uses advanced CT technology, along with intravenous (IV) contrast material (dye), to obtain high-resolution, 3D pictures of the moving heart and great vessels.
CTA is used as a noninvasive method for detecting blockages in the coronary arteries. A CTA can be performed much faster (in less than one minute) than a cardiac catheterization, with potentially less risk and discomfort as well as decreased recovery time.
Implantable loop recorder ; An implantable loop recorder is a type of heart-monitoring device that records your heart rhythm continuously for up to three years. It allows your doctor to remotely monitor your heartbeat while you go about your daily activities.
The small device, also called a cardiac event recorder, is placed just under the skin of your chest during a minor surgery. Your doctor may recommend an implantable loop recorder if you have:
An abnormal heartbeat (arrhythmia)
An unexplained stroke
Unexplained fainting (syncope)
An implantable loop recorder can capture information that a standard electrocardiogram (ECG) or Holter monitor may miss, particularly arrhythmias that are brief or infrequent.
Calcium Scoring: A calcium-score screening heart test (coronary calcium scan) uses computerized tomography (CT) to detect calcium deposits in the coronary arteries of your heart. A higher coronary calcium-score suggests you have a higher chance of significant narrowing in the coronary arteries and a higher risk of future heart attack.
You do not need a doctor’s order to have this test done. Simply call the hospital radiology department to schedule. Commercial insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid does NOT pay for this test. This is paid for out of pocket. HCGH is excited to offer this high quality test for the low price of $79. Prices will change April 1st.