ROCKPORT — Mammograms are the first step and most effective screening tool in the battle against breast cancer.

In the fight against the disease, MaineHealth Pen Bay Hospital (MHPBH) recently installed a new, state-of-the- rt mammography machine in its Radiology department in September and, with it, became the first hospital in Maine to begin using new Genius AI Detection (GAID) 2.0 software in scans.

The machine’s advanced software, combined with SmartSlice technology and new curved compression paddles, helps to increase the effectiveness of scans, reduce a radiologist’s review time and increase patient comfort during a mammogram. This new equipment is part of the hospital’s ongoing investment in the health and well-being of the community.

The machine works by capturing single, one-millimeter photos of the breast. The GAID software then analyzes each one-millimeter image and marks potential regions of interest that may need closer examination. These photos are then compiled into one six-millimeter image, called a SmartSlice, offering a comprehensive view of the scan for the radiologist to review.

“The GAID software doesn’t replace our radiologists; instead, it acts as a second set of eyes to help ensure nothing is overlooked,” said Susan Walker, RT(R)(M)(CT), director of Imaging for MHPBH and MaineHealth Waldo Hospital (MHWH) in Belfast, in a news release. “To have this new technology and software is exciting and will help create a more efficient and standardized reading process for our radiologists.”

The machine’s curved compression paddles are also a first for the hospital, providing a more comfortable experience for patients during the exam.

“Our radiologists take great care in explaining the importance of proper compression,” said Walker. “The tissue needs to be spread out for a thorough scan and these paddles will go a long way in easing the discomfort patients experience.”

"Mammograms are capable of detecting signs of breast abnormalities before symptoms occur, so it is important that women are screened regularly to reduce their risks," said MaineHealth.

Most providers recommend women get yearly screenings starting at the age of 40 unless there is an issue or concern. Women with a family history of breast cancer should begin talking with their providers about screening options at age 25.

"The new machine is a step toward serving a larger volume of patients in our community and beyond, while also providing high-quality care close to home," said the release.

Annual screening mammograms are covered by most insurances, and both MHPBH and MHWH offer mammograms at their state-of-the-art breast imaging centers. For more information about mammograms, talk to your primary care provider or visit mainehealth.org/breastscreening.

About MaineHealth

MaineHealth is a not-for-profit, integrated health system whose vision is, “Working together so our communities are the healthiest in America,” and is committed to a mission of providing high-quality affordable care, educating tomorrow's caregivers and researching better ways to provide care.

MaineHealth includes a Level 1 trauma medical center, eight additional licensed hospitals, comprehensive pediatric care services, an extensive behavioral health care network, diagnostic services as well as home health, hospice and senior care services. With more than 2,000 employed providers and approximately 23,000 care team members, MaineHealth provides preventive care, diagnosis and treatment to 1.1 million residents in Maine and New Hampshire. MaineHealth hospitals include MaineHealth Behavioral Health at Spring Harbor in Westbrook, MaineHealth Franklin Hospital in Farmington, MaineHealth Lincoln Hospital in Damariscotta, MaineHealth Maine Medical Center in Portland, Biddeford and Sanford, MaineHealth Memorial Hospital in North Conway, N.H., MaineHealth Mid Coast Hospital in Brunswick, MaineHealth Pen Bay Hospital in Rockport, MaineHealth Stephens Hospital in Norway and MaineHealth Waldo Hospital in Belfast. MaineHealth also includes the MaineHealth Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital in Portland, MaineHealth Care at Home in Saco, the MaineHealth Institute for Research in Scarborough, the MaineHealth Medical Group and MaineHealth NorDx in Scarborough. MaineHealth affiliates include Maine General Health in Augusta and Waterville and St. Mary's Heal System in Lewiston. It is also a significant stakeholder in the MaineHealth Accountable Care Organization in Portland and a joint venture partner in the New England Rehabilitation Hospital in Portland.