Introducing the Latest Mammography Technology
Copley Hospital is proud to continue its long-standing commitment to the health and well-being of women in our community by investing in the latest advancements in breast imaging. On Monday June 30, we began using next-generation 3D mammography technology that brings improved accuracy, earlier detection, and a better overall experience to women across Lamoille County and beyond.
“This upgrade is not just about technology—it’s about putting people first,” said Jill LaRock, Executive Director of Clinical Ancillary Services. “We are deeply committed to the women in our community, and this investment ensures that they can receive the highest-quality care close to home, without delay or the need to travel.”
Although Copley has offered 3D mammography for several years, rapid advancements in image clarity, diagnostic precision, and AI-assisted interpretation have led to a significant leap forward in breast cancer screening. The newest equipment with GenieAI ™ can detect as much as 50% more invasive breast cancers with this advancement than prior analog systems, and it is especially effective for women with dense breast tissue.
“The razor-sharp images from this new system allow us to spot the smallest details—like subtle lesions and tiny calcifications—earlier than ever before,” said Lead Mammographer Sandy Pinard. “And with artificial intelligence helping interpret the images, we can reduce human error, catch cancers sooner, and give our patients the best possible outcomes.”
This latest investment also opens the door to future enhancements, including contrast-enhanced mammography, an emerging technique that provides even greater insight in complex cases and for high-risk patients—further expanding Copley’s ability to care for women locally.
Patients will also experience several important benefits:
- + Fewer callbacks and false positives
- + Shorter compression times
- + Reduced radiation exposure
- + Improved comfort and faster exams
“Women’s health is a top priority at Copley,” said LaRock. “From prevention to early detection and beyond, we want every woman to know that she has access to compassionate, expert care right here in her own community.”
In recent years, Copley has also added Stereotactic Breast Biopsy Equipment and a Mammogram Tracking Software System, building a complete and local breast care center designed to support both patients and referring providers. “And soon, Copley will be able to provide text message reminders to patients about their need for yearly mammography and other breast health appointment reminders,” continued LaRock.
Copley currently performs more than 4,100 mammograms annually, and with this new technology, the hospital plans to increase capacity, reduce wait times, and make screenings even more convenient. “A woman does not need a referral to schedule a screening mammogram, they simply call to make an appointment,” says Pinard. While mammogram screenings are a self-referral, patients must provide the name of their primary care provider or other provider at the time of the call.
“We want to make it as easy as possible for women to prioritize their health,” emphasized both LaRock and Pinard. “When it comes to breast care, early detection saves lives—and we are proud to offer the tools, the technology, and the personal care that our community deserves.”