McLeod Health Clarendon Radiology Department receives perfect score

MANNING - McLeod Health Clarendon's Radiology Department has received a perfect score on its Mammography Quality Standards Act inspection by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.

"Receiving a score of 100 percent on our recent MQSA inspection is an honor for McLeod Health Clarendon," said Rachel Gainey, MHC administrator. "This perfect score shows that we have an excellent staff that continuously pursues perfection in their provision of patient care and the delivery of the highest mammographic images possible. A major part of the survey is the review of the documentation for our mammography equipment, which is handled by Kristi McElveen, lead mammography technologist. Her diligence in maintaining this information is to be commended."

MHC's 3D mammography technologists include McElveen, Stacey Barwick, Janice McNair and Stephanie Endicott, who perform breast ultrasounds in the hospital's Radiology Department.

"3D mammography allows detection and diagnosis of breast cancer and is a highly effective tool in detecting breast cancer long before any physical symptoms develop," Rainey added. "Early detection is documented to be critical in reducing mortality rates. I am proud of our radiology staff demonstrating excellence in the quality of care they provide to our patients."

MHC uses the most accurate mammogram available, the 3D mammography. This 3D technology is revolutionizing how breast cancer is detected. Compared to 2D technology, 3D mammography provides a better option for women of all breast densities. 3D mammography is one important technique that doctors use to detect breast cancer. Mammograms detect problem areas even before they can be felt in a breast self-exam. Being able to find breast cancer earlier means much lower levels of lymph node involvement, and more women who are being treated for cancer are eligible for breast conservation.

To make a reservation at MHC, call (843) 777-2095.

South Carolina ranks 13th in the nation for breast cancer deaths, according to the South Carolina Cancer Alliance. Nearly half of the counties in South Carolina have a higher rate of breast cancer deaths than the national average.

After gender, age is the leading contributor to breast cancer risk. According to SCCA, the risk of developing breast cancer increases eight-fold by age 60.

According to the South Carolina Central Cancer Registry, from 2011 to 2015, Clarendon, Sumter and Lee counties along with eight other counties ranked the highest in all cancer incidence rates. During that same time period, only Lee County and 10 additional counties ranked at the top for all-cancer mortality rates.