| Allegan General Hospital has a new addition to its OB ultrasound services – 3D/4D ultrasounds. Expectant parents are now able to have a 3D/4D ultrasound at AGH. A 3D ultrasound enables parents to see a three-dimension picture of the unborn baby and a 4D ultrasound captures movement providing a live action image.
“We are very excited to be able to offer this service to the community,” said Julie Kendall, Radiology Manager at Allegan General Hospital. “Having the 3D/4D ultrasound allows us to help provide families with a very memorable bonding experience with their unborn child. The clarity and detail of the ultrasound also can help bring the reality of having a new brother or sister to a sibling.”
3D/4D ultrasound is not diagnostic and does not replace the diagnostic ultrasound. “Expectant mom’s still need to continue to have their diagnostic ultrasounds as ordered by their physician,” said Kendall. “These ultrasound scans aren’t for medical purposes, but for the enjoyment of the family.”
Because the 3D/4D ultrasounds are not diagnostic, they are not typically covered by insurance. In fact, most other area hospitals or imaging facilities charge a fee for this service. Allegan General Hospital has opted not to charge an additional fee for this service. It will be available to patients after their 22nd week of pregnancy, following the completion of a diagnostic ultrasound at the hospital.
“For us, it is about the patient experience,” said Kendall. “Being pregnant is one of the most exciting times in a couple’s life. We want to be able to give them 3D/4D images that they can share with family and friends without an added expense.” |