USDA Rural Development State Director Bobby Goode announced that there will be federal funding for diagnostic equipment at Rhea Medical Center (RMC).
"Access to good health care is critical to the economic health and quality of life of people who live in rural communities," said Mr. Goode. "Providing the best diagnostic facilities closer to home saves families and businesses time and money, but most important, it saves lives."
Rhea Medical CEO Ken Croom said, "The $83,000 grant from USDA will help fund the purchase of needed equipment including a digital mammographic unit and a new bone mineral density unit."
RMC is the only facility in the region still processing mammograms on film. Digital technology provides doctors and patients with a sharper view of the patient's anatomy without waiting for film to be developed.
"Studies show that digital mammography is superior for detecting potential health risks for women," said Mr. Croom. "Reducing the processing time means that patients are more likely to keep their appointments and many more patients can be served in day."
The bone mineral density unit detects osteoporosis, which helps prevent crippling leg and back fractures. The new unit will replace an older model.
Rhea Medical Center, a county-owned, non-profit organization, is dedicated to providing patients with the highest quality health care and is accredited by the Joint Commission. The new 28 million dollar facility opened and began providing services in August 2007.
Rural Development community programs finance construction or improvements to essential services like reliable access to clean water, wastewater treatment, health care, education, job training and first responder facilities. Loan guarantees encourage private lenders to expand the availability of affordable financing in rural communities. Direct loans and grants create sound financial opportunities for local governments to meet essential infrastructure needs.
Others participating in the event included Sen. Corker's representative David Leaverton, Rhea County Mayor Billy Ray Patton, Rural development Chattanooga Area Director Rickey Hickman and specialist David Collet.