Advanced Imaging
CCHC Imaging Center is proud to offer the following services to patients in Craven and surrounding counties: bone densitometry, CT scanning, Echocardiography and Nuclear Cardiography, 2D and 3D mammography, open MRI, ultrasound, radiographic exams, and vascular studies. We are located in the CCHC Medical Facility on Medical Park Avenue. Our state-of-the-art services and equipment offer some of the latest technology available. Check out the links below for additional information and ask your doctor if you have questions.
» READ MORE DEXA (Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptionmetry): DEXA is the most accurate and advanced test available for measuring bone mass with excellent resolution and reproducible precision. A DEXA test is more accurate than radiograms and can diagnose bone loss at an earlier stage. Safe and painless, the 10 minute DEXA scan is the most reliable test to determine even the earliest stages of bone loss associated with osteoporosis. Bone Density testing is performed at CCHC Imaging Center by a Certified Densitometry Technologist, certified by the International Society for Clinical Densitometry. Bone Density studies are interpreted by a medical doctor who is also certified in densitometry by the International Society for Clinical Densitometry. Computed Tomography (CT): A CAT (computed axial tomography) scan or CT scan is a painless test that uses multiple images, taken from different angles, to create three-dimensional images of body structures. Increasingly, CT scans use digital x-rays to produce their images on a computer screen. The CT scanner rotates around the patient, who lays supine in the tube, and obtains images in 360 degrees. Echocardiography: Transthoracic Echocardiography (TTE) is the most common type of echocardiography exam. It allows the doctors to view the heart from outside the chest without any discomfort to the patient. It does not require the patient to be sedated. This exam is performed by placing a microphone-shaped device called a transducer on the patient’s chest that sends ultrasound waves over the different areas of the heart, which are reflected back through the transducer and converted into images. Mammography: We offer 3D mammography and 3T breast MRI in an effort to meet the growing need for high-tech and comprehensive breast health services. CCHC Imaging Center is the first center in Eastern North Carolina to offer digital breast tomosynthesis for breast cancer screening. 3D mammography improves breast cancer detection, especially in young women and women of any age with radiographically dense breast tissue. Dense breast tissue can obscure an underlying cancer, or conversely mimic a cancer when none exists. Approximately 15 to 20 percent of breast cancers cannot be detected using traditional 2D mammography. MRI – The most advanced MRI in the New Bern area is at CCHC Imaging Center. The Siemens MAGNETOM Espree is the first “Open Bore” Magnetic Resonance Imaging scanner and is truly a step ahead of the competition. It offers the unique combination of a spacious 70 cm bore and a short 125 cm magnet that allows nearly 60% of all scans to be performed with the patients head outside of the open bore. Even those patients who are claustrophobic or overweight will be more comfortable and relaxed because of the increased head and legroom allowed by Siemens’ new design. The magnet’s powerful 1.5 Tesla (or field strength) means significantly clearer and more precise images can be obtained with shorter exam times. Nuclear Cardiography: Nuclear cardiology evaluates cardiac blood flow and function through the use of small amounts of radioactive materials. Nuclear cardiology can help identify patients who might benefit from angioplasty or bypass surgery after a heart attack. Images of the heart provided by special cameras detect the presence and function severity of heart disease, especially coronary artery disease. Many nuclear imaging procedures are performed in conjunction with exercise or pharmacological stress testing. Nuclear Medicine is a medical specialty involving the application of radioactive substances in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. Nuclear medicine scans are usually conducted by radiographers. Nuclear medicine, in a sense, is “radiology done inside out” or “endoradiology” because it records radiation emitting from within the body rather than radiation that is generated by external sources like x-rays. Nuclear medicine imaging, radiopharmaceuticals are taken internally, for example, intravenously or orally. Then, external detectors (gamma cameras) capture and form images from the radiation emitted by the radiopharmaceuticals. Digital Radiography is a form of X-ray imaging, where digital X-ray sensors are used instead of traditional photographic film. Advantages include time efficiency through bypassing chemical processing and the ability to digitally transfer and enhance images. Also less radiation can be used to produce an image of similar contrast to conventional radiography. Instead of X-ray film, digital radiography uses a digital image capture device. This gives advantages of immediate image preview and availability; elimination of costly film processing steps; a wider dynamic range, which makes it more forgiving for over- and under-exposure; as well as the ability to apply special image processing techniques that enhance overall display of the image. Ultrasound: Ultrasound is a medical procedure that uses sound waves to image different areas of the body. The most common exams are of the abdomen, pelvis, blood vessels and of a fetus during pregnancy. Ultrasound is very safe and noninvasive, which makes it a very useful diagnostic tool. Vascular Studies: Vascular tests determine the adequacy of blood flow in arteries and veins throughout the body. Arterial Doppler Study: The arterial Doppler examination is performed by measuring blood pressures and Doppler waveforms at multiple levels of the arms and legs. The severity and location of blocked arteries can be approximated. Occasionally treadmill exercise is added to help differentiate the pain. Venous Doppler Study: Venous Doppler studies detect blood clots in the leg or arm veins. They are frequently ordered for painful or swollen extremities. Carotid Doppler Study: The Carotid Doppler examination is a non-invasive, painless scanning of the neck arteries using high frequency sound waves to detect plaque buildup. Your physician may order this test if a stethoscope examination of the neck arteries reveal sounds called “bruits.” The amount and location of blocked arteries help guide therapy and is an important part of stroke prevention. » READ LESS
Cardiology
Cardiology is a medical specialty and a branch of internal medicine concerned with disorders of the heart. It deals with the diagnosis and treatment of such conditions as congenital heart defects, coronary artery disease, electrophysiology, heart failure and valvular heart disease. Subspecialties of the cardiology field include cardiac electrophysiology, echocardiography, interventional cardiology and nuclear cardiology.
Infusion
Our infusion department offers a comfortable treatment environment and the highest quality of patient care. Infusion (IV) therapy involves the administration of medication through a needle or catheter. This therapy is prescribed when a patient’s condition cannot be treated effectively by oral medication. Typically, infusion therapy means that a drug is administered through a vein. For a complete list of medications offered, please visit our Infusion Center page. CCHC Infusion Center is located at CCHC New Bern Internal Medicine Specialists at 702 Newman Rd in New Bern.
Conditions We Treat
- Dehydration
- Gastrointestinal diseases or disorders
- Immune deficiencies
- Multiple sclerosis
- Rheumatoid Arthritits
- Lupus
- Anemia
- Asthma/COPD
- Migraines
- Osteoporosis
Services and Treatments
- Injectable Biologics
- Intravenous antibiotic, anti-inflammatory therapies
- Hydration therapy
- Infusion nursing services
- Implanted venous access port
Clinical Trials
Patients interested in a Clinical Trial can call 252-639-5985 or email cchcresearch@cchealthcare.com for additional information. Qualified participants may receive study-related medical evaluations and study medication at no cost. Reimbursement for travel may also be provided. You will receive additional information on the risks and benefits related to a study if you decide to participate!
Color Fundus Retinal Photography
Color Fundus Retinal Photography uses a camera to record color images of the retina, in order to document the presence of disorders and monitor their change over time. The retina is imaged to document conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, age related macular degeneration, macular edema and retinal detachment.
Critical Care
Critical care helps people with life-threatening injuries and illnesses. It might treat problems such as complications from surgery, accidents, infections, and severe breathing problems. It involves close, constant attention by a team of specially-trained health care providers.
Endocrinology
Endocrinology is a branch of biology and medicine dealing with the endocrine system, its diseases, and its specific secretions called hormone, as well as the integration of developmental events proliferation, growth, and differentiation (including histogenesis and organogenesis), and also the psychological or behavioral activities of metabolism, growth and development, tissue function, sleep, digestion, respiration, excretion, mood, stress, lactation, movement, reproduction and sensory perception as caused by hormones. Significant diseases include: diabetes, thyroid disease, androgen excess.
Endoscopy
Endoscopy means looking inside and typically refers to looking inside the body for medical reasons using an endoscope, an instrument used to examine the interior of a hollow organ or cavity of the body. Unlike most other medical imaging devices, endoscopes are inserted directly into the organ. Endoscope can also refer to using a borescope in technical situations where direct line of-sight observation is not feasible.
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Family Medicine
Family medicine is a division of primary care that provides continuing and comprehensive health care for the individual and family across all ages, genders, diseases, and parts of the body. It is based on knowledge of the patient in the context of the family and the community, emphasizing disease prevention and health promotion. The issues of values underlying this practice are usually known as primary care ethics.
Gastroenterology
Gastroenterology (MeSH heading) is a branch of medicine focused on the digestive system and its disorders. In the United States, Gastroenterology is an Internal Medicine Subspecialty certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) and the American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine (AOBIM). Diseases affecting the gastrointestinal tract, which includes the organs from mouth to anus, along the alimentary canal, are the focus of this specialty.
Internal Medicine
Internal Medicine incorporates an understanding of disease prevention, wellness, substance abuse, mental health, and effective treatment of common problems of the eyes, ears, skin, nervous system, and reproductive organs. An internal medicine physician’s primary responsibilities include health maintenance and disease screening, the diagnosis and care of acute and chronic medical conditions, management of patients with multiple, complex medical problems, and serving as consultants to other disciplines such as surgery, obstetrics, and family medicine. An internist’s work is characterized by extensive knowledge and skill in diagnosis and treatment.
Lung Cancer Screening
Are you a long-term smoker? If your answer is YES, a lung screening could save your life. What is Lung Cancer Screening? Screening means that a test is done to look for a disease, in persons at risk for developing the disease, before the disease causes symptoms. In this case, the test is a low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan of the chest. The goal of screening is to reduce the number of people who die from lung cancer by detecting the disease earlier.
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Eligibility for Years Lung Cancer Screening
- Be aged 50 to 77 years old
- Have no current signs of lung cancer such as unexplained cough or weight loss greater than 15 pounds in one year or coughing up blood
- Tobacco smoking history of at least 20 pack years (this is the number of years smoked multiplied by the number of packs (20 cigarettes = 1 pack) smoked per day. For example 1 pack per day for 20 years equals 20 pack years or 2 packs per day for 10 years equals 20 pack years)
- Be a current smoker or one that has quit within the past 15 years
- Have a lung cancer screening discussion with a provider to determine eligibility
Benefits of Lung Cancer Screening
Having a low-dose chest CT scans reduces the chance of dying from lung cancer in people who are at risk of developing lung cancer with minimal harm to those who are screened. Benefits were based on the results of the National Lung Cancer Screening Trial which found that lung cancer deaths were decreased by 20 percent in people who had annual low-dose CT scans over two years (1).
Drawbacks of Lung Cancer Screening
Screening for lung cancer with a chest CT scan can find small spots, called nodules, in the lungs. There is no way to tell if these lung nodules are lung cancer without further tests such as repeat CT scans or biopsies. Therefore, many people who are screened may have further tests without having lung cancer.
Lung cancer screening CTs use a very small dose of radiation. The dose is five times less than a standard CT. The effects of radiation from lung cancer screening is not known. The benefits are though to outweigh any consequences.
Quitting Smoking
If you smoke, you can cut your risk of dying from lung cancer by quitting. We advise all smokers to quit. CCHC has free smoking cessation classes that can help you quit. Please refer to our website www.cchchealthcare.com under the News and Events tab for further information on our smoking cessation classes.
For More Information
Please ask your provider about our Lung Cancer screening program or call 252-633-4111 for more information.
Footnote: (1) Reduced Lung-Cancer Mortality with Low-Dose Computed Tomographic Screening. The National Lung Cancer Screening Trial Research Team. N Engl J Med 2011;365:395-409.
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- Be aged 50 to 77 years old
- Have no current signs of lung cancer such as unexplained cough or weight loss greater than 15 pounds in one year or coughing up blood
- Tobacco smoking history of at least 20 pack years (this is the number of years smoked multiplied by the number of packs (20 cigarettes = 1 pack) smoked per day. For example 1 pack per day for 20 years equals 20 pack years or 2 packs per day for 10 years equals 20 pack years)
- Be a current smoker or one that has quit within the past 15 years
- Have a lung cancer screening discussion with a provider to determine eligibility
Benefits of Lung Cancer Screening
Having a low-dose chest CT scans reduces the chance of dying from lung cancer in people who are at risk of developing lung cancer with minimal harm to those who are screened. Benefits were based on the results of the National Lung Cancer Screening Trial which found that lung cancer deaths were decreased by 20 percent in people who had annual low-dose CT scans over two years (1).
Drawbacks of Lung Cancer Screening
Screening for lung cancer with a chest CT scan can find small spots, called nodules, in the lungs. There is no way to tell if these lung nodules are lung cancer without further tests such as repeat CT scans or biopsies. Therefore, many people who are screened may have further tests without having lung cancer.
Lung cancer screening CTs use a very small dose of radiation. The dose is five times less than a standard CT. The effects of radiation from lung cancer screening is not known. The benefits are though to outweigh any consequences.
Quitting Smoking
If you smoke, you can cut your risk of dying from lung cancer by quitting. We advise all smokers to quit. CCHC has free smoking cessation classes that can help you quit. Please refer to our website www.cchchealthcare.com under the News and Events tab for further information on our smoking cessation classes.
For More Information
Please ask your provider about our Lung Cancer screening program or call 252-633-4111 for more information.
Footnote: (1) Reduced Lung-Cancer Mortality with Low-Dose Computed Tomographic Screening. The National Lung Cancer Screening Trial Research Team. N Engl J Med 2011;365:395-409.
» READ LESS
Neurology
Neurology is a medical specialty dealing with disorders of the nervous system. To be specific, neurology deals with the diagnosis and treatment of all categories of conditions and disease involving the central and peripheral nervous system; or, the equivalent meaning, the autonomic nervous systems and the somatic nervous systems, including their coverings, blood vessels, and all effector tissue, such as muscle.
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Nurse Triage Line
To reach us after hours, call (252) 636-NURS (6877)
Patients can call the FREE hotline to speak to Registered Nurses who will answer your questions or refer you to the doctor on call. The hotline is available when your doctor’s office is closed. The hotline can help you decide what kind of care you need. You might be able to treat the condition at home, you might need to see your doctor, or you might need to get urgent or immediate care. If you have a life-threatening medical emergency, call 911.
Orthopedics
Orthopedics is a medical specialty concerned with skeletal system and its interconnection parts. CCHC Orthopedics will see patients with conditions from spine issues, sports medicine. arthritis, fractures, strains, and pain.
Podiatry
Podiatry involves the diagnosis and treatment of patients who have medical conditions affecting the feet or lower legs resulting from injuries as well as complications from ongoing health issues like diabetes. Treating injuries of the feet and lower legs can have a major impact on a patient’s mobility and independence. Click here for more information.
Palliative Care
Palliative Care focuses on relief from physical suffering. The patient may be being treated for a disease or may be living with a chronic disease, and may or may not be terminally ill. Palliative Care addresses the patient’s physical, mental, social and spiritual well-being, is appropriate for patients in all disease stages, and accompanies the patient from diagnosis to cure. Palliative Care uses a multi-disciplinary approach using highly trained professionals.
Pulmonology
Pulmonology is the subspecialty of internal medicine concerned with diseases of the lungs and bronchial tubes, which often involves evaluation of the upper respiratory tract (nose, pharynx and throat) as well as the heart. Pulmonologists are specially trained in diseases and conditions of the chest, such as pneumonia, asthma, tuberculosis, emphysema, or complicated chest infections.
Psychiatry
Psychiatry focuses on the study, diagnosis, and treatment of mental illness. Psychiatrists are qualified to assess both the mental and physical aspects of psychological problems. They will provide diagnostic evaluations and prescription management to adults.
Rheumatology
The role of the rheumatologist is to diagnose, treat and medically manage patients with arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. These health problems affect the joints, muscles, bones and sometimes other internal organs (e.g., kidneys, lungs, blood vessels, brain). Because these diseases are often complex, they benefit from the care of an expert. Only rheumatologists are experts in this field of medicine. The rheumatologist interacts with the patient and family, gives health information and partners with other health care providers.
Sleep Medicine
Sleep medicine is a medical specialty or subspecialty devoted to the diagnosis and therapy of sleep disturbances and disorders. Sleep is key to good health. Sleep deprivation can significantly affect your mind and body. We recommend you meet with a sleep specialist who will listen to your concerns and help develop a plan to meet your needs. They provide a sleep evaluation, from the initial examination, through comprehensive testing, therapy and follow-up care.
Subacute Care
Subacute care is intensive, but to a lesser degree than acute care. This type of care is for those who are critically ill or suffer from an injury that won’t withstand the longer, daily therapy sessions of acute care.
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Urgent Care
CCHC Urgent Care meets a variety of our community’s needs. Whether you have an earache, sore throat, or if you just cut yourself while preparing dinner for your family, we are here to help. Our providers can also address issues such as insect or pet bites, minor breathing issues, sprains and fractures, and abdominal pain. We also take care of worker’s compensation cases. Our providers and staff are professional, courteous, and thorough. The well being of the patient is always our number one priority.
Additional Services
The CCHC network of doctors offer a wide range of both general and highly-specialized services to serve the communities we call home. Although we have highlighted a few of those services here, this is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the many services we can provide to our patients. If you have a question about a specific service we offer, please contact us using the contact form on this website and one of our representatives will reach out to you. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance.