Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
WEST JORDAN — Discovering a lump in your breast is life-changing enough.
And after the initial exam, there are multiple X-rays, biopsies, surgery, tests and more tests, chemotherapy and/or radition therapy, and then there are the options surrounding cosmetic surgery.
There's so much to think about, Jordan Valley Medical Center CEO Bryanie Swilley said, it "can be confusing for patients to navigate."
By providing a comprehensive breast care center in a single location, we can provide ease of treatment and peace of mind to patients who are facing a maze of outpatient medical services.
–Bryanie Swilley
With a full range of services now available in one location, the new Breast Care Center at the 183-bed hospital aims to make treatment for breast health issues more comfortable and convenient for patients and survivors.
"By providing a comprehensive breast care center in a single location, we can provide ease of treatment and peace of mind to patients who are facing a maze of outpatient medical services," Swilley said.
Not only will it mean less wait time, the new facility has been likened to a spa, rather than a clinic. On a long-term basis, the center will provide access to a complete range of tests to evaluate breast symptoms or abnormal mammogram results, including MRI, ultrasound, stereotactic and other minimally invasive breast biopsies, among others.
A nurse navigator will be assigned to each patient, to deliver a high level of care, and the center employs a diverse staff, including surgeons and oncologists to provide expert opinion and recommendations.
The Breast Care Center gives physicians the ability to immediately hand over care to an entire team of highly qualified specialists who will take good care of their patients throughout the entire treatment process.
–Dr. Jane Porretta
"Most breast issues are discovered by a family practice physician or OB/GYN," said Dr. Jane Porretta, medical director of the Breast Care Center and a specialist in breast surgery and ultrasound-guided breast procedures. She said the process from there is often laborious on the part of both doctors and patients.
"The Breast Care Center gives physicians the ability to immediately hand over care to an entire team of highly qualified specialists who will take good care of their patients throughout the entire treatment process," Porretta said.
In addition to medical care, center officials plan to provide nutritional counseling, breast cancer support groups and networking for patients dealing with similar situations.
West Jordan Mayor Melissa Johnson received the center's inaugural mammogram Tuesday, in preparation for the upcoming opening. She said that while a little discomfort from the procedure was expected, the facility was accommodating.
More information about the new facility can be found online, at www.jordanvalleymc.com.
Email:wleonard@ksl.com
