GRACE donated funds necessary to The Richland Hospital to purchase a gastroscope

If you are over the age of 45, you should be talking to your doctor about which cancer screenings may be right for you. The Richland Hospital Foundation, Greater Richland Area Cancer Elimination (GRACE), and The Richland Hospital and Clinics continues to invest in state-of-the-art equipment that enhances cancer detection and, in many cases, prevention.

Over the last year, GRACE donated funds necessary to purchase a gastroscope, a specialized tool that helps with the early detection of conditions in the upper digestive tract. A gastroscope is used to examine the esophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine, which allows providers to identify concerns earlier, and when they are often most treatable.

Angie Coenen, Foundation Director said, “We truly appreciate the generosity of GRACE and their commitment to supporting rural health care. Funds raised through the Foundation have helped purchase numerous pieces of equipment across the organization, and none of it would be possible without community support.”

That community support also made it possible to acquire the ESG-300, a system used during colonoscopies, to help prevent colon cancer.  The ESG-300 delivers precision energy needed to safely remove polyps discovered during colonoscopies, turning early detection into immediate treatment. This allows doctors at The Richland Hospital and Clinics to identify a potential concern, remove it, and send it for testing during the same procedure, often preventing cancer before it develops.

Talk with your doctor about recommended cancer screenings. If you’re ready for a colonoscopy, appointments at The Richland Hospital and Clinics are often available within two weeks.