Jupiter, Fla. (July 24, 2020) – Jupiter Medical Center is advancing its diagnostic imaging and staging
capabilities with the addition of a new, high-performance, digital PET/CT
scanner. The technology will make Jupiter Medical Center the first in
the state to produce motion-free images that will improve the diagnosis
and treatment of cancer. The acquisition is due to the generosity of Barbara
and Joe Charles.
The General Electric Discovery IQ combines positron emission tomography
(PET) and computerized tomography (CT) scans. The merger results in the
detection of much smaller cancerous lesions, exceptional image quality,
and the use of less radioactive materials.
“It is important to us to have a regional medical center that is
committed to expanding critical services,” said donor Joe Charles
who lives in Jupiter. “We wanted to help Jupiter Medical Center
find the best available technology to improve treatment, accuracy, and
enhance patients’ experiences.”
The new PET/CT scanner includes respiratory technology that monitors each
patient’s breathing pattern and stabilizes accordingly, leading
to clearer images and improved diagnosis. The machine also involves less
hardware and shortens the length of the procedure, which increases patient comfort.
“This donation supports the growth of the oncology services at Jupiter
Medical Center and changes the outlook for our patients,” said Liv
Vesely, president of Jupiter Medical Center Foundation. “Our physicians
have a greater tool to determine the extent of disease, so they can pinpoint
the next steps for treatment.”
The new PET/CT scanner with be housed in the Foshay Cancer Center, which
is part of the Anderson Family Cancer Institute. The 55,000-square-foot
facility opened in March 2020. It offers patients tailored treatments
and access to the world-class team at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
at the University of Miami, the only designated National Cancer Institute
(NCI) cancer center in South Florida.
About Jupiter Medical Center Foundation
Since its founding in 1989, Jupiter Medical Center Foundation has empowered
Jupiter Medical Center with the financial resources to reimagine the delivery
of health and wellness to the region. Jupiter Medical Center Foundation,
together with Jupiter Medical Center, is committed to transforming regional
healthcare through leading-edge technology, patient-centered care and
enhanced facilities. The Foundation has funded a number of major projects
at Jupiter Medical Center, including the De George Pediatric Unit in partnership
with Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, the Margaret W. Niedland Breast
Center, The Anderson Family Orthopedic & Spine Center, the Frank E.
and Mary D. Walsh Robotic Surgery Program, and the Florence A. De George Pavilion.
As a leading, not-for-profit medical provider in the region, Jupiter Medical
Center relies on philanthropic gifts to maintain patients’ well-being
and quality of care, and Jupiter Medical Center Foundation is dedicated
to securing this financial support in order to fulfill the mission of
the organization. For more information, please visit jmcfoundation.org.