Kootenai Health opens women’s imaging centers in Coeur d’Alene and Post Falls

Kootenai Health and Kootenai Outpatient Imaging have opened new women's imaging centers in Coeur d'Alene and Post Falls.

"The new centers feature the highest quality imaging equipment to help ensure early breast cancer detection for the women of northern Idaho," a press release said. 

Both locations offer the latest equipment, including enhanced screening options for women with dense or fibrous breast tissue, and an emphasis on creating a calm, healing environment.

The Coeur d’Alene location features two new 3D mammogram units, an auto-breast ultrasound and a DEXA bone density scanner.

The Post Falls location features a new 3D mammogram unit, a DEXA bone density scanner and an ultrasound machine designed specifically for obstetric and pelvic ultrasounds.

“What’s wonderful about where we are currently in the state of breast imaging, and particularly at Kootenai Health, is we have multiple different modalities for the early detection of breast cancer,” said radiologist and medical director of women’s imaging Luke Grauke, M.D. “We have mammography, ultrasound and MRI, and we have them all in the same location."

The 3Dimensions mammogram units provide higher quality 3D images for radiologists and a more comfortable mammography experience for patients. Its sharper images and smarter technologies help find invasive cancers regardless of age or breast density.

The automated breast ultrasound, ABUS, is the first FDA-approved supplemental ultrasound screening technology specifically designed for detecting cancer in dense breast tissue. 

The inclusion of AI-driven technology and consistent readings make it easier for trained radiologists to detect areas of concern early and with greater precision, according to the release.

Input from local women encouraged Kootenai to provide both mammography and bone density screening at the Women’s Imaging Centers so both screenings can be scheduled for the same visit. 

The DEXA bone density scanner is used to measure bone mineral density to assess bone health and diagnose conditions like osteoporosis. Bone density screenings are important for women after menopause when bones can become more porous and brittle.

The new centers are accredited by both the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers and the American College of Radiology. Kootenai Health is the only NAPBC accredited center in the region.

“The Women’s Imaging Centers enhance our offerings as an accredited breast center,” said Swartz. “This expansion ensures greater access to high-quality diagnostic services and supports our community with best-in-class advancements in women’s health.”

Kootenai Outpatient Imaging’s Women’s Imaging Center Coeur d’Alene location is in the Interlake Medical Building, 700 Ironwood Drive, suite 366. The Post Falls location is in Kootenai Health’s Post Falls medical center at 1300 E. Mullan Ave., suite 400. 

Both centers are open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday with scheduling through the MyChart app, online, or by calling 208-625-6300.