Auburn Community Hospital (ACH) opened a cutting-edge Women’s Imaging Suite this week, featuring two GE Pristina Full Field Digital Mammography systems that will improve early breast cancer detection for residents in Cayuga County.
Physicians, hospital leaders, and patients celebrated the ribbon-cutting, including Kelly Mosher—an Interventional Radiological Technologist and patient—who praised the new center for its convenience, advanced technology, and compassionate care.
“This is the nicest women’s center I’ve ever worked in,” Mosher said. “It’s so nice to have one-stop shopping—to get a mammogram and quick results in one visit.”
A major step for women’s health in Central New York
ACH President and CEO Scott Berlucchi said the imaging suite represents a key investment in expanding local access to women’s health services.
“This is our commitment to strengthening women’s health,” Berlucchi said. “It’s all about access to world-class medicine right here in Auburn.”
The new mammography systems capture both 3D and 2D breast images from a single scan. This streamlined approach reduces radiation exposure and improves accuracy, especially for women with dense breast tissue.
Faster results, less stress
ACH providers now deliver same-day or next-day results in many cases—dramatically reducing patient anxiety.
“The waiting period used to be awful,” said Dr. Alan Sherburne, president of the ACH Medical Executive Committee. “Now we can identify problems quickly and begin treatment planning faster, which improves outcomes.”
More comfort, less invasive procedures
The new technology also helps doctors locate abnormalities without requiring traditional surgical biopsies. GE designed the system to enhance patient comfort during exams.
“This is truly patient-centered technology,” said Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jamie Syrett. “Our team planned every detail to speed up care and make it more accurate and comfortable.”
Built by and for Auburn
ACH Board of Trustees Chairman Tony Franceschelli emphasized the importance of community-driven healthcare.
“Every day, we fight for Auburn and Cayuga County,” he said. “This hospital keeps improving because the people behind it live here and care deeply about our patients.”
Radiology Department Chairman Dr. Jubin Jacob credited a collaborative team of technologists, physicians, and administrators for ensuring top-quality imaging and a stress-free experience for patients.
Encouraging early screenings
The American College of Radiology recommends annual mammograms for women over 40, or earlier for those with a family history. The hospital’s investment makes it easier for local women to follow these guidelines without traveling far.
“Ladies, get your screenings,” Mosher said. “Early detection saves lives.”