FORT WAYNE – The Parkview Health Foundation, in collaboration with Parkview Packnett Family Cancer Institute (PFCI), announced the dedication of a new Francine’s Friends Mobile Mammography coach, adding access to 3D mammography screenings for women across northeast Indiana.
Since its inception in 2005, Francine's Friends Mobile Mammography has provided screening services. The new 40-foot-long coach is equipped with FDA-approved and Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA)-approved 3D equipment, identical to that found in stationary Breast Diagnostic Center (BDC) sites. Staffed by radiologic technologists from the BDC, the coach grants access to essential mammography services, according to the release from Parkview.
“Mammography gives the ability to detect breast cancers at a much earlier stage,” said Alan Yahanda, MD, FACS, president, PFCI. “In doing so, we can then address it much earlier. The beauty of the mammography coach is that it allows us to go out into the community to do those tests and serve underserved populations, especially rural populations or those in the city who may not have ideal access to health care.”
Parkview began efforts to replace the original coach in 2024. “We were really trying to get the most mileage out of the previous vehicle. And unfortunately, in the last couple of years, we needed more maintenance and knew we had to plan for a new coach,” said Denise Andorfer, director, Parkview Health Foundation. “We were fortunate to have the Cathy Fitzgerald Charitable Trust approach us and say, ‘We want to remember Cathy and we'd love her to be honored on the coach.’ She was one of the founders, so our partnership was a natural fit.”
Earlier this year, the original mobile mammography coach was donated to Ivy Tech, where it will be retrofitted by students for use at middle and high school career exploration events.