Since 2011, the Wadley Scan Mobile Unit has performed over 10,000 scans. Of the 10,000 participants who were scanned, 2,916 participants were found to have plaque in their arteries. Studies show that 15% of all strokes occur because of plaque in the carotid artery. When testing the Peak Systolic Velocity (PSV) by using Doppler methods to measure blood flow in the arteries, 282 participants had a greater than 50% blockage and 354 participants who were found to have mild to severe blockages when tested for Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). A person with PAD is two to four times more likely to have a heart attack compared to the general population. Heart disease and stroke are the leading causes of death worldwide.

Wadley Regional Medical Center partnered with AngioScreen® to deliver a heart attack and stroke prevention program to Texarkana. The scan includes a series of tests to check for stroke risk, irregular blood flow or heartbeat, high blood pressure or blockages. The scan is completely painless, affordable and non-invasive. Scans are performed in as little as 10-15 minutes and results are immediately processed. A Wadley Scan Technician consults with the participant to explain their results, and provides them with a color ultrasound printout to take with them.

If any risks are detected, they are directed to see their personal physician.

Wadley is the exclusive provider of AngioScreen® in Northeast Texas, Southwest Arkansas and Southeast Oklahoma. The Wadley Scan Mobile Unit travels to various businesses, churches, health fairs, and community events in an effort to promote vascular health. “Staffed with an ultrasound sonographer and two medical technicians, Wadley Scan is designed to provide professional screenings of a persons’ vascular health at an affordable rate of $39.95.

“Having this valuable information can empower a person to make lifestyle changes if necessary,” says Sheila Key, RN, Community Relations Manager.

Wadley Scan will host a 10,000th Scan Celebration on Wednesday, May 7th at 2:00 pm in the hospital’s front lobby. Dr. Sylvia Karpinski, Wadley Scan Medical Director and John Caldwell, a Wadley Scan participant, will both make brief comments. Refreshment will be provided and the public is invited to attend.