Radiology

The Radiology department at O'Connor Hospital offers the best of both worlds. Our small size allows for shorter appointment waiting times and more personal attention, while our affiliation with Bassett Healthcare gives us access to cutting-edge technology.

O'Connor's Radiology department provides the following high-quality diagnostic imaging services: routine diagnostic radiography, CT scanning, ultrasound, mammography, DEXA scanning (bone densitometry screening for osteoporosis) and Magnetic Reasonance Imaging (MRI).

Emergency radiology services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Outpatient exams are available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. MRI services are provided from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays.

O'Connor began offering MRI services in March, after identifying a need in the Delhi community. Previously, our patients had to drive long distances for this important service, which has replaced more invasive procedures. Magnetic Reasonance Imaging is a high-tech method that produces clear images of the body without the use of X-rays, enabling doctors to detect developing diseases or abnormalities earlier than ever before.

O'Connor Hospital's Radiology department is staffed with experienced technologists certified in each of the services provided and seven board-certified radiologists who are based at The Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown and rotate coverage for O'Connor Hospital. Department staff members include Michael A. Viafore, R.T. (R) R.D.M.S., supervisor; Lori Mercadante, R.T. (R) (CT); Albert Klimas, R.T. (R); Diane Hitchcock, R.T. (R)(M); and Barbara Amato, department secretary.

As an FDA-certified mammography facility, O'Connor provides screening and diagnostic mammography services (including breast ultrasound). Because of our small size, and with two staff mammographers, we can often schedule mammograms sooner than many other facilities.

Our CT and ultrasound sections are equipped with teleradiology capability that enables us to transmit exams by computer for interpretations 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Soon, we'll be going even more high-tech, thanks to our affiliation with Bassett Healthcare. Bassett radiologists in Cooperstown have already traded in their films and light boxes for a Picture Archiving and Communications System (PACS), and this exciting technology will be coming soon to O'Connor. The new, filmless system will be used for ultrasounds, CT scans, X-rays, MRIs and other studies, which will now be read from digital computer images from anywhere in the Bassett network or the authorized provider's home.

For more information on O'Connor Hospital's Radiology department, call (607) 746-0375.

Answers to many commonly asked questions.

If you or someone you care about needs a diagnostic scan, you might have questions about what to expect. Here are answers to commonly asked questions. Ask your doctor or CT technician for more information about this quick and pain-free diagnostic procedure.

Q: What is a CT?
A: CT stands for computed tomography (sometimes referred to as a CAT scan) and is a fast, painless tool doctors use to see inside the body. A CT scanner combines X-rays with computer technology to create detailed images of your internal structures and organs.

Q: Will I feel claustrophobic?
A: Our state-of-the-art system is designed to enhance patient comfort and has a more open design than many traditional CT scanners. This allows patients to see outside of the machine during examinations and helps to reduce claustrophobic effects.

Q: Are there any people who shouldn't get CTs?
A: If you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, or have allergies to fish or iodine, you should inform your doctor and CT technician prior to your exam.

Q: Will the CT scan hurt?
A: No. CT is a painless, non-invasive test. Your exam might require you to take a contrast agent that will make your blood vessels and tissues more visible. You may also be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds during the exam.

Q: How long will my CT exam take?
A: It depends on which study your doctor has ordered. Most exams are quick and last just a few minutes. You may be asked to arrive 15 or 30 minutes prior to your exam time.

Q: Do I have to do anything special to prepare for my CT scan?
A: How you prepare for your CT scan depends on what part of the body is being examined. You may be asked not to eat or drink anything before your exam.

Q: What is a contrast agent?
A: It is a liquid substance that makes tissues stand out more clearly against their surroundings, enabling the details to show up on the X-ray. You may be given the contrast agent intravenously or orally. It will leave your body naturally within a few hours.

Q: Will I be alone during the CT exam?
A: During your CT exam, you will be in contact with a technologist. Even when he or she is not in the CT room you will be able to communicate via intercom. The technologist will inform you when an exam is about to start, and when it is finished. Family members and/or friends are typically not permitted to stay with you.

A powerful way to tell your story...

"My doctor sent me to O'Connor Hospital when I needed a CT scan. The process was fast and painless and it helped me get an earlier diagnosis, which meant I had more options for treatment."

"I was afraid I might get claustrophobic, but I was pleasantly surprised by the open feeling. Getting a CT scan was painless and easy."