Through generous donations made to the Buena Vista Regional Healthcare Foundation, BVRMC has acquired a new tuberculosis (TB) testing analyzer that allows testing to be performed in-house, providing faster and more accurate results for patients.
Previously, TB tests were sent to an outside lab, and results could take three to four days to return. Having local testing allows the care team to better manage the testing process, reduce delays and guide patient care more quickly.
TB is a bacterial infection that mainly affects the lungs. Although TB is a serious disease, with proper vaccination, timely detection, screening and treatment, it is both preventable and curable.
“This new analyzer allows us to perform TB testing in-house, which improves both turnaround time and the quality of the testing process,” says Anne Iehl, BVRMC Director of the Laboratory. “Having more control over the sample and the testing conditions helps us provide more reliable results, which is important when determining the next steps in a patient’s care.”
Individuals may be tested for TB for many reasons including routine screenings, new employee onboarding or when experiencing symptoms. Having faster, local testing also helps limit the potential spread of TB and supports a safer environment for patients and staff.
Faster, in-house testing helps the health care team make timely decisions and develop appropriate care plans for patients, supporting BVRMC’s ongoing work to deliver high-quality care close to home.
“We are deeply grateful for the many dedicated donors of the Foundation who are aligned with our goal of supporting local health care and making BVRMC the best place to receive care,” says Katie Schwint, BVRMC Executive Director of Community Development. “Support to the Foundation is actively at work in our community, helping people heal and potentially saving lives.”
To learn more about the Foundation and how you can support local health care, please contact Katie Schwint at 712.213.8601.