Northwestern Medical Center (NMC) continues to bring advanced medical technology to Franklin and Grand Isle counties. On October 12, 2026, NMC completed renovations to its Diagnostic Imaging Department, making room for installation of an advanced Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) scanner, and an updated Stress Lab.
The SPECT Scanner is the most recent investment NMC has made in diagnostic imaging technology, complementing the new Computed Tomography scanner (CT) added in 2024, and an upgraded Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in 2023. These diagnostic technologies produce detailed images that are read by NMC’s board-certified radiologists and specialty physicians.
Unlike conventional X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs, which primarily show the body’s structure, Nuclear Medicine SPECT scans evaluate how organs actually work. They are used to detect cancers, assess heart function and blood flow in cardiology, and evaluate the gallbladder, kidneys, and endocrine system.
“Bringing these services back online with state-of-the-art technology is a massive win for our community,” said Erica Coburn, Director of Diagnostic Imaging. “Not only are we resuming the essential general studies our patients rely on, but the advanced capabilities of this new equipment allow us to introduce new specialized studies, keeping high-quality diagnostic care close to home.”
Certified Nuclear Medicine Technologist (CNMT) Melissa Rock said “This also means less travel for patients, because we now have this technology right here in Franklin County.” Mellisa also echoes Erica’s message:“The new scanner can perform advanced imaging that NMC could not provide in the past.”
NMC got support for the project from The Rotary Club of St. Albans who donated the proceeds from their 2026 Cardiac Champ Challenge race held in July. This second year of the Champ Challenge was once again a successful fundraiser, and the Rotary’s donation helped offset a portion of the cost of the project.
“We are so grateful to the Rotary and to the community as a whole for their support of NMC and this project,” said NMC CEO Jonathan Billings. “That kind of generosity makes a real impact on our organization and our ability to provide the most up-to-date care possible for our patients.”
Beyond the technical capabilities these investments create, they also allow NMC to provide better appointment availability and flexibility to meet the healthcare needs in the community, often at lower costs than other healthcare facilities.
Relocation of the Stress Lab brings together services, allowing patients to complete stress tests and nuclear imaging in one visit, in one location. The new space also improves Nurse and Diagnostic Imaging Technologist collaboration around patient care.
“Northwestern Medical Center is proud to provide our remarkable team with this advanced equipment as part of our commitment to exceptional care in our local community,” said Jonathan Billings, NMC’s Chief Executive Officer.
Patients, community physicians and care providers are encouraged to contact NMC’s Diagnostic Imaging department at 802-524-1058 for more information about these expanded services or visit Northwestern Medical Center (www.northwesternmedical.org) for a complete listing of available services.
