Geriatrics is a relatively new word in medicine and most definitely a separate science. In radiology, it is the diagnosis of disease related to aging. Screening is becoming an increasingly important element in the field as well. Overall, geriatrics has at its heart the goal of ensuring healthy, productive lives for our senior population.

Typically geriatric specialists are called upon to diagnose conditions like osteoporosis, hardening of the arteries, senility, arthritis, cancers, heart disease and stroke.

As we grow older, the systems of the body begin to slow, change and interact with one another differently. When we're twenty and complain of an ailment, we can generally pinpoint the problem with relative ease. At seventy however, our complaints are rarely confined to one system of the body. Causes become less obvious and easier to misunderstand.

At EPIC Imaging we take a team approach to geriatric diagnosis. All the many subspecialties of our radiology staff are accessed to understand what the images reveal for the elderly patient. Collaboration and consultation are a common part of the diagnostic reading.

Another advantage EPIC offers our senior patients, is the unique training of our technologists. As they work with patients, special care is taken to accommodate the fact that the elderly frequently move more slowly, need more explanation and hear information in a slightly different way. We have additional staff available to consult with spouses and family members who often accompany loved ones for their exams.