Amberwell Hiawatha has expanded the imaging services available in the region with the addition of on-site nuclear medicine imaging, now seeing patients as of December 10. This service reflects Amberwell’s continued commitment to growing access to care in the Hiawatha area.
Nuclear medicine is a type of imaging that helps providers see how organs and tissues are working. It is often used to better understand heart function, detect certain conditions earlier, and guide treatment planning. While these studies have been available to patients in the past, they were previously performed through a mobile unit. Bringing nuclear medicine fully inside the facility improves access, convenience, and scheduling.
Kristin Beyer, Director of Radiology Services at Amberwell Health Hiawatha, shared, “Having nuclear medicine onsite at Amberwell Hiawatha makes a real difference for patients. No more stepping into a truck for a scan or waiting for availability in larger cities. We brought 3D mammography to Hiawatha in 2023, and now offering this service in-house brings another important diagnostic option close to home.”
With nuclear medicine now offered on-site, patients no longer need to plan around mobile schedules or travel to larger cities. Appointments are easier to secure, wait times are shorter, and exams take place in a comfortable, familiar setting with a care team patients already know and trust.
Amberwell Hiawatha offers both general nuclear medicine studies and cardiac nuclear stress testing. Exams are performed by members of the Radiology and Cardiac Rehab teams, with Nuclear Medicine Technologist Jeremy Forkenbrock leading the imaging work and Dustin Williams, DNP, providing medical oversight.
Nuclear medicine testing requires a referral from a medical provider and insurance pre-authorization. Through close coordination across departments, many patients are able to complete their testing within days rather than weeks.
To learn more about nuclear medicine or other radiology services available at Amberwell Hiawatha, visit
amberwellhealth.org/service/radiology/radiology-amberwell-hiawatha/
or call 785-742-6270.