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Women & Children
High-tech imaging tools. Specially certified technicians and caregivers. Family-centered care for you and your children. In addition to the first-rate maternity care provided by The Birthing Center, Lawrence General offers a range of specialized testing and treatment options for both women and children. From radiology services catering to women's needs to our innovative pediatric programs, our team excels at delivering outstanding, personal healthcare for your family. Lawrence General Hospital and its affiliates strive to provide a professional, courteous, supportive experience to our patients. A comprehensive approach assures that the quality of our care extends from the moment you schedule an exam until the moment you receive your results. We offer two convenient locations for Mammography and Ultrasound services - in the Hospital's Radiology department, located on the second floor, and at the Women's Health Imaging Suite, located at Doctor's Park, 140 Haverhill Street in Andover. At both locations our mammography services possess a valid license and certificate of inspection issued by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. All of our technologists are certified or registered in their respective areas by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists. Our complete mammography program, and every Lawrence General radiologist interpreting test results, has been certified by the American College of Radiology. For appointments at Lawrence General Hospital, call (978) 683-4000, Extension 8103. For appointments at the Women's Health Imaging Suite, call (978) 475-5213. Mammography
Mammography (X-ray examination of the breast) is used to detect and diagnose breast cancer and other diseases of the breast. Performed by certified radiologic technologists, a special machine uses low-dose x-rays to create images of the patient's breasts. Recorded to film and interpreted by a radiologist, mammograms may reveal lesions or other abnormalities before they are detectable through physical examinations, such as a clinical breast exam or breast self-exam. Based on these results, additional imaging tests may be necessary. However, according to the American Cancer Society, only 1 or 2 out of every 1,000 mammograms performed results in a diagnosis of breast cancer. In addition to diagnostic tests, mammography is considered a vital health screening tool. For every woman, the risk of breast cancer increases with age. The American Cancer Society recommends women aged 40 and older should receive a screening mammogram and a clinical breast examination every year. Along with monthly breast self-examinations starting at age 20, these methods help catch breast cancer in its early stages, when it is most treatable. Since other factors may also affect the risk of developing the disease, such as a family history or other health conditions, some women may benefit from earlier annual mammograms. As with any health-related issues, consult with your physician to determine your individual medical needs. Ultrasound
Ultrasound is most often used as a diagnostic tool for pregnant mothers to evaluate the health and development of babies while in utero. The technology can also be used to examine the function and blood flow of other organs, such as the liver, intestines, or heart. Bone Mineral Densitometry (BMD)
Another important diagnostic test available at the Women's Health Imaging Suite measures a woman's risk for osteoporosis, which can lead to debilitating fractures and other skeletal injuries. Those at risk for osteoporosis include older adults, post-menopausal women, and people with inactive lifestyles or a family history of the disease. Unfortunately, almost 80% of all women who have osteoporosis do not display early symptoms. A safe, pain-free test, bone mineral densitometry uses minute amounts of radiation to scan and detect bone density at two key sites on the body, usually the spine and the hip. Once measured, clinicians compare these results to two standards - one from a group of young, healthy adults, the other from a group matching the patient's age, weight, and ethnicity. Based on this comparison, as well as additional testing, a diagnosis can be determined, with follow-up care provided by the patient's physician. To schedule a BMD test, contact the Women's Health Imaging Suite at (978) 475-5213. Stereotactic Breast Biopsy
Performed at the Hospital, the procedure enables physicians to extract tissue samples from a breast abnormality for laboratory testing. A machine first creates stereo (3-D) x-ray images of the breast to determine the exact coordinates of a lesion. After numbing the area with a local anesthetic, the physician makes a small nick in the breast just large enough to fit the machine's hollow needle, and based on the initial coordinates, directs the needle into the breast and extracts tissue samples. These go directly to the laboratory for testing. The entire procedure generally takes only 20 minutes to an hour. Usually only an ice pack is recommended to reduce any swelling. Patients go home with just a bandage covering the wound - no stitches needed - and once healed, the nick is barely visible. Supporting early detection efforts for all women, Lawrence General participates in the Women's Health Network, a program of the Mass. Department of Public Health. The program enables low-income, uninsured, and under-insured women ages 40 - 64 to receive clinical breast exams, pelvic exams, Pap smears, mammograms and other diagnostic services free of charge. The Lawrence General Women's Health Network program works closely with the YWCA of Greater Lawrence, which performs referral and outreach services, provides education, and arranges for transportation, childcare and other needs for program participants. For more information on the Women's Health Network program, call (978) 683-4000, Extension 2161.
Hours:
Monday - Friday, 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays, 3:00 PM - 11:00 PM Open Seven Days a Week Because kids often get sick after “office hours” end, Lawrence General Hospital collaborated with MassGeneral Hospital for Children to create the Pediatric After Hours Referral Center (PAHRC). The Center provides access to pediatric care for children under 18 years of age during weekday evenings, weekends, and holidays - times when an unexpected but non-emergency need to visit the doctor may arise. The PAHRC’s clinical team includes physicians and nurses with expertise in Pediatric and Emergency Medicine, combining the familiarity and convenience of a typical office visit with the comprehensive resources available in a regional hospital. The Center treats on a referral-only basis, assuring a set appointment time for parents and eliminating uncertain waits in walk-in services, or at home until the next morning, to see a doctor. Parents first contact their child’s primary physician as usual. The doctor or triage staff may then make a referral to PAHRC, where a same-day appointment will be scheduled. After treatment, the pediatric specialist shares the details of treatment with the child’s primary care physician, assuring continuity of care. For more information on the Center and its services, please ask your child’s primary care provider. When a child’s illness means a stay in the hospital, it causes anxiety for the patient and parents alike. Nurses and other caregivers in Lawrence General Hospital's Pediatrics unit offer care and support for both the child and parents. Alleviating their unique concerns requires compassion, hands-on education, and a gentle, positive outlook - skills found in each member of our clinical team. Staffed by clinicians specializing in pediatrics, the unit offers acute medical and post-surgical care for children ranging in age from infants to young adults. Every nurse has certification in Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and cares for a variety of medical ailments, including asthma, respiratory illness, nutrition issues, and post-surgical cases such as appendectomies and orthopedic injuries. If a condition requires more advanced care, the child can be quickly transferred to a tertiary medical center. The unit itself provides an energetic and positive atmosphere for patients, with brightly colored wall stenciling and murals created by area school children. Staff members create fun, educational displays to encourage positive behaviors such as reading and outside physical activity. A playroom with a variety of toys, games, and a large aquarium helps make the time pass a little easier for many young patients. Because of the quality and level of patient care provided, Lawrence General serves as the clinical education venue for nursing students at UMass Lowell during their pediatric training experience. Special attention for younger patients extends beyond the inpatient unit into other clinical areas. For example, the Surgical Day Care Center has a special waiting room just for children’s cases so they can get ready for their procedure in their own space separate from adult cases. Surgical Day Care staff and physicians also make every effort to schedule children's surgeries early in the day, alleviating all-day anxiety for them and their parents. We're always looking for ways to improve our services for women and children. If you have had a positive experience, or have any ideas or suggestions that would help us improve our services to women and children, send us an email and share them! |