CT Care That Says “We’ve Got You” [Deb Kanengieter]

When Deb Kanengieter needed ongoing CT scans to monitor her health, she found more than advanced imaging close to home—she found compassionate care that helped her feel supported every step of the way. In this video, Deb shares how Brookings Health's imaging team made her CT scan experience comfortable, efficient and reassuring while helping provide important information for her medical care.

Key Takeaways

  • CT scans help monitor ongoing health conditions: Deb's endocrinologist orders regular CT scans to evaluate her pituitary gland, adrenal gland and other areas as part of managing her health.
  • Compassionate care creates a better patient experience: The imaging staff explained every step of the process, offered assistance with mobility and helped Deb feel confident and at ease.
  • Coordinated care keeps providers informed: CT scan results are shared through AveraChart, allowing Deb's physician in Minnesota to quickly access her imaging results.
  • Early detection supports better health decisions: Deb's CT scan identified fluid in her brain's ventricles, helping explain her symptoms and allowing her care team to monitor the condition.
  • Receiving imaging care close to home adds convenience: Having CT scans performed locally allows Deb to receive specialized imaging without traveling farther from home.

Frequently Asked Questions

A CT (computed tomography) scan is an imaging test that uses X-rays and computer technology to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body's organs, bones and tissues. It helps healthcare providers diagnose conditions, monitor ongoing diseases and guide treatment decisions.

A doctor may recommend a CT scan to evaluate symptoms, monitor chronic medical conditions, assess changes in organs or tissues, or look for signs of disease or injury. CT scans are often used to help providers make informed decisions about diagnosis and treatment.

During a CT scan, you lie on a table that moves through the scanner while images are taken. The technologist explains each step, helps position you comfortably and works to make the exam as quick and smooth as possible.

Depending on your medical condition, your provider may recommend other imaging tests such as MRI, ultrasound or X-ray. The most appropriate imaging exam depends on the part of the body being evaluated and the information your healthcare provider needs.

CT scans provide detailed images that can identify changes inside the body that may not be visible during a physical exam. Early detection and ongoing monitoring can help providers diagnose conditions sooner, explain symptoms and guide appropriate treatment.

Video Transcript

I'm Deb Kanengieter, and my husband is Dennis. And we live on a farm by Astoria, South Dakota. We have three children. They're grown and gone. And before I retired, I worked at a vocational college. I taught and I also tutored.

Why did your doctor request a CT scan?

Well, that's Dr. Ocampo. He's my endocrinologist and they have to keep checking on, like, my pituitary gland, and adrenal gland, and all that. Every time he does that, I usually do come here.

How was your CT scan experience?

It was just so calming and so... You just walked in and everybody just went like clockwork. And everybody just had the attitude, "Don't worry, we're here for you. We got you."

How did the staff make you feel comfortable?

Very comfortable, because being with the wheelchair, because I can't walk very far, they asked if they could help get me on the table. And she just explained everything. There was just no question. Like I said before, they just take over and make you feel like, "We got you. Don't worry about a thing."

How was communication with your primary doctor in Minnesota?

He gets them right away through the AveraChart. It works really well because I've had a lot of blood work done at different places. Well, he's the one that keeps sending me here, so it works good. Then we're closer to home when we do this stuff.

Why are CT scans important to your health?

I have an autoimmune disease, so they needed to check on that. And they'll probably keep checking it. But they did find some fluid in my ventricles, in my brain. I was starting to have a few side effects, and now I know why. So, it was very important because you don't want to wait until they're full of fluid up there.

Would you recommend Brookings Health System for imaging care?

You guys have it all together. I mean, from the minute you walk in, everything's like clockwork. And everyone's kind, and nice, and has a smile on their face.

Are you one of Brookings Health System's grateful patients who would like to give back to us? Learn more about how you can give back at brookingshealth.org/MyThanks.

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