Diagnostics and laboratory

Hospital laboratory in Kansas City

Medical laboratory testing should be convenient, easy and quick. That's why HCA Midwest Health offers diagnostic and laboratory services to get you fast, accurate results on tests and screenings.

From blood tests to imaging and screenings, we work with your healthcare provider to deliver your results quickly so they can pursue treatment options and get you healthy.

Bone density screening

A bone density test is the only screening that can diagnose osteoporosis before a broken bone occurs. The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends a bone density test of the hip and spine by a trained imaging professional for men and postmenopausal women 50 years old and older with risk factors.

We use a central dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) machine to conduct the test. It estimates bone density in men and women to indicate bone health so that early pre-osteoporosis can be managed with your healthcare provider.

To schedule a bone density screening, call (816) 276-4088.

Heart tests

Our board-certified cardiologists with HCA Midwest Heart and Vascular Institute can uncover all forms of heart disease. They provide comprehensive heart tests and cardiac imaging options using the latest imaging and diagnostic equipment.

Tests available include:

Prenatal screenings

We can identify whether your baby is at risk of having birth abnormalities or genetic disorders with prenatal screening tests. We can evaluate both the mom and the baby through a variety of tests and procedures as part of our high-risk pregnancy services.

Prenatal screenings for the mother include:

• Blood pressure
• Blood tests for type and Rh factor
• Microbiological examinations for infections
• Urine tests

Prenatal screenings for the baby include:

• Amniocentesis
• Chorionic villi screening (CVS)
• Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP)
• Non-stress test (NST)/biophysical profile (BPP)
• Nuchal translucency (NT)
• Percutaneous umbilical blood sampling
• Ultrasound

Breast health

We provide the latest technology in digital mammography, breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and advanced breast diagnostic services in a convenient and personal atmosphere to provide comfort and reduce anxiety.

3D mammograms

Three-dimensional (3D) mammography, also known as digital mammography with tomosynthesis, is the latest breast mammography technology. X-ray machines are used to take pictures of thin slices of the breast from different angles and computer software is used to reconstruct an image. This process is similar to how a computerized tomography (CT) scanner produces images of structures inside the body.

The Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute at HCA Midwest Health features 3D mammography, which offers the following benefits to patients:

• An increase in breast cancer detection, with a more than 40 percent increase in the detection of invasive cancers
• Earlier detection of breast cancers
• Clearer lesion image
• Reduction in the number of unnecessary biopsies, minimizing patient anxiety and unnecessary costs

3D mammography is recommended for patients who have the following:

• Biopsies for suspicious masses or lesions in the past
• Breast cancer or a family history of cancer
• Callbacks for repeat breast scans
• Dense breast tissue
• Previous mammograms with ambiguous or inconclusive results

Anyone can request a 3D mammogram. No doctor's order is needed for the screening mammogram. Depending on your insurance coverage, additional fees may apply for 3D mammography. You will be informed about any fees that are your responsibility when checking in for your appointment.

Other tests HCA Midwest hospitals offer include:

• Cyst aspiration
• Digital mammography (2D)
• High-risk assessment on every patient
• Mammography biopsies prone 2D and upright 3D
• Minimally invasive stereotactic breast biopsy
• MRI breast imaging/biopsies
• Needle localizations
• Positron emission tomography (PET)/computerized tomography (CT)
• Surgical breast biopsy
• Ultrasound
• Ultrasound-guided biopsy

Colorectal cancer screening

Colon screenings are important to ensure your body stays healthy and to detect any early signs of cancer. The Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute recommends a flexible sigmoidoscopy (which examines the rectum and lower part of the colon) every five years or a colonoscopy (which examines the rectum and entire colon) every 10 years for those who are 45 years old and older.

Screening options

A colonoscopy is the gold standard of colon cancer screening, but we know many people are hesitant about the procedure.

Depending on your personal history and risk factors, other screening options in the Kansas City area are available, such as:

• Digital rectal exam – An exam that checks for abnormalities. It can detect almost half of colon cancers and can usually be completed by a primary care physician (PCP) near you.
• Fecal immunochemical test (FIT) – A stool culture test used to detect blood in the stool. You will obtain a discreet sample in the privacy of your own home and send it to a lab for analysis. This test is offered through a primary care physician and is covered by most insurance with little to no cost to you. It is designed for patients at average risk for colon cancer and should be repeated annually.
• Fecal occult blood test – A lab test used to look for blood in the stool. You can talk to a primary care doctor near you about this test.
• Stool DNA test – A lab test used to look for DNA changes in cells. It can also detect blood in the stool. This test can usually be performed by your PCP.
• X-ray of the large intestine or barium enema – This test provides a picture of the colon and assists in identifying polyps.
• Biopsy – During this procedure, the doctor removes a tissue sample to be sent for examination.
• Virtual colonoscopy – A test that uses computer software and a CT scan to check the colon for polyps.

Genetic counseling

Cancer assessment and risk evaluation by a genetic counselor may help people in hereditary cancer families make better health decisions and prevent disease. Cancer genetic counseling can include the following:

• Cancer risk analysis
• Collection of detailed medical and family histories
• Discussion of the medical and psychosocial implications of cancer risk and genetic testing
• Genetic testing following informed consent
• Medical management of cancer risk and options
• Patient education
• Pedigree drawing and analysis
• Review of medical records

Even if there's a cancer pattern in your family, it doesn't mean you will have it. You may benefit from learning more about your own risk, the potential risk for your children and other family members. Current cancer research shows that early detection and proactive medical care have proven to help reduce risk and save lives.

Outpatient laboratories

Our convenient laboratories feature walk-in appointments and rapid turnaround for adult and pediatric patients throughout the Kansas City region. Appointments are not required, and results will be sent directly to your physician.