JACKSON, Wyo. — The year 2024 marks a period of significant growth and progress at St. John’s Health, reflecting its continued commitment to providing exceptional care to the community. Since the arrival of Dr. Melissa Cohen, the first full-time staff oncologist, in mid-2023, St. John’s Health has reported a 28% increase in monthly clinic appointments and a nearly threefold rise in PET scan frequency. These developments underscore the pressing need for expanded services to meet the growing demands of patients.
A key initiative in this effort is the planned acquisition of a Cartesion Prime digital PET/CT scanner, a $4 million investment that will transform diagnostic imaging. Currently, patients experience extended wait times due to reliance on a mobile PET scanner available only once a week. Many are required to travel to Salt Lake City, UT, for faster access to scans, adding unnecessary burdens to their care. The new PET/CT scanner is expected to reduce scan times from nearly an hour to under 15 minutes, deliver exceptional image quality, and enhance coordinated care across multiple specialties. Beyond oncology, this advanced scanner will play a critical role in diagnosing conditions such as frontotemporal dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, ensuring tailored and effective treatment.
These advancements are made possible through the generosity of donors, whose contributions drive meaningful change. St. John’s Health Foundation’s 2024 Impact Report celebrates this collective impact, sharing stories of lives transformed through expanded care and cutting-edge technology.
As St. John’s Health plans for future growth, St. John’s Health Foundation is encouraging end-of-year donations to support initiatives like the PET/CT scanner. Contributions will ensure timely and accurate diagnostics for patients while continuing the legacy of life-changing care. For more details or to contribute, visit stjohns.health/foundation or call (307) 739-7512.
