Spanish Fork Hospital offers a wide range of diagnostic capabilities, including advanced laboratory testing and comprehensive medical imaging services, through its Intermountain Health network. These services provide patients with integrated results and access to specialized diagnostics ranging from routine blood work to advanced molecular-based testing.
Laboratory and Diagnostic Capabilities
The laboratory services at Spanish Fork Hospital include a variety of diagnostic tools designed to assist healthcare providers in developing patient care plans. According to Intermountain Health, the department offers laboratory and pathology services that range from routine blood testing to advanced PCR and molecular-based tests. Other available services include blood analysis, urinalysis, and surgical pathology.
Integrated Patient Results
Intermountain Health stated that laboratory results are integrated into a patient's medical record, allowing a team of providers to access the most up-to-date information for treatment. The hospital's lab specialists provide results intended to be fast, accurate, and reliable. Patients can also access their lab results through the Intermountain Health patient portal app, which allows them to view new results and reference past data.
Convenience and Accessibility
For patients seeking convenience, Intermountain Health has expanded its reach through at-home lab services. This option allows patients located in parts of Utah and Nevada to have their labs drawn at home rather than traveling to a physical location. Additionally, the hospital's laboratory accepts walk-ins during open hours, meaning patients do not need to schedule a prior appointment for testing.
Imaging and Radiology Services
The imaging and radiology department at Spanish Fork Hospital provides comprehensive services for the diagnosis of injuries and diseases. These services utilize a streamlined scheduling experience through the Intermountain full-service scheduling system, which aims to reduce administrative burdens and deliver results to providers more quickly.
Advanced Medical Imaging
The imaging department utilizes cutting-edge technology for precise diagnostics and comprehensive evaluations. As part of its network, Intermountain Health leverages a vast network of experts across six states to assist with diagnostics. For specific medical procedures, the hospital offers specialized services such as mammograms for women's health, which use advanced screening technologies for early breast cancer detection.
Regulatory Requirements
Scheduling for imaging studies is subject to federal regulations. According to Intermountain Health, the Protecting Access to Medicare Act (PAMA) requires an algorithm review for ordered studies to ensure the test is necessary. This process assigns a number to the case, which is required for the scheduling process.
Imaging Preparation Guidelines
Patients preparing for imaging exams should follow specific instructions based on the type of exam and the body part being examined. General recommendations from the hospital include eating normally and taking usual medications unless a doctor or imaging specialist provides different instructions. Patients are advised to remove metal objects, such as jewelry, glasses, dentures, or hearing aids, that might interfere with the images.