Thanks to the generosity of our donors, the MedStar Montgomery Medical Center Emergency Department (ED) is now offering upgraded imaging capabilities.
In the past, clinicians in the ED relied upon a portable X-ray machine housed within the Imaging department, an arrangement that presented some logistical and clinical restrictions. Now, newly equipped with a designated, in-department X-ray room, the ED is working faster and better than ever.
Thanks to the support of philanthropist Shelley Gudelsky-Mulitz and other generous donors, MedStar Montgomery was able to convert a treatment room into an X-ray room equipped with a Fujifilm FDR D-EVO digital X-ray machine.
The Gudelsky-Mulitz family has long supported MedStar Montgomery.
“Supporting MedStar Montgomery in making this upgrade to the ED was an easy decision,” says Mrs. Gudelsky-Mulitz. “Their amazing emergency team deserves to work with the best possible equipment, and every patient experiencing a medical crisis deserves to be treated as quickly and effectively as possible. By contributing to this upgraded X-ray area, I hope to support MedStar Montgomery’s efforts to keep our community healthy.”
This new room and imaging technology has been positive for both patients and associates.
“Our new X-ray capabilities are already making a huge impact on our patient experience,” says Michael Kerr, MD, medical director of the Emergency Department at MedStar Montgomery. “With X-ray capabilities available right in the ED, there is no longer a need for patients to move to another area of the hospital for a scan. Images can be taken and viewed more quickly, speeding along emergency care. Patients with mobility issues can also receive X-ray exams more easily and comfortably using the upgraded machine.”
In addition to added convenience, the new imaging technology also offers clinical advantages. Although portable machines are safe and reliable for simple scans, they are limited in their functionality, rely upon rechargeable batteries that limit the number of exposures that can be taken, and cannot be used for longer scans without running the risk of heightened radiation exposure. The upgraded machine allows for more nuanced imaging, additional exposures, and reduces radiation exposure by 20 to 40 percent.
“At the end of the day, this upgrade has allowed us to bring the safety and quality of the care we provide in our ED to an even higher level. Continual improvement is at the heart of our work, and philanthropy helps make advancements possible,” says Dr. Kerr.