Mammography Machine Improves Access to Preventative Screenings

Reducing Wait times from 6 weeks to 6 Days

Though mammograms do not prevent breast cancer, they can certainly save lives by identifying the cancerous cells as early as possible.

In fall 2021, St. John’s Health recognized an opportunity to better support the health of Jackson’s fast-growing community by improving cancer screening options and availability. At the time, 4-6 week wait times for screening mammograms meant that our doctors and patients were losing 4-6 important weeks to identify cancer cells and commence the treatment process. It was clear that an additional mammography unit was critical for both hospital operations and the health of our community.

With support from private donors and the Community Foundation of Jackson Hole, St. John’s Health Foundation funded the purchase of an additional 3D Tomosynthesis Mammography Machine for both screening and diagnostic imaging. The machine arrived in April 2022 and its impact was immediately positive. Director of Diagnostic Imaging Tiffany Logan reported that their department has experienced a reduction in wait times from six weeks to 6-10 days for both screening mammograms and diagnostic mammograms. Year-to-date screening mammograms are up nine percent and May 2022 was a record month with 410 screens. Tiffany shared that they have never been close to 400 before. This drastic change in patient experience would not have been possible without this community’s generous support.