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TEST - DRAFT CHS 2025 Annual Report-3

Health & Hope is a newsletter designed to educate and inspire Western Montanans on life-saving procedures, community events and services to keep you and your family healthy.

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The Region's First Cardiac PET CT Covenant Medical Group is proud to bring a cutting- edge advancement in cardiac imaging to West Texas and eastern New Mexico with the launch of the region's first Cardiac Positron Emission Tomography / Computed Tomography (PET CT).This technology provides a new way to assess a patient's heart health. The Cardiac PET CT combines two powerful imaging technologies into one test. Together, offering an unparalleled insight into heart health, combining structural and functional imaging to deliver more precise diagnostics. "This Cardiac PET CT is the new gold standard for diagnosing coronary artery disease," said Dr. Jason Strefling, Cardiology Associates & Covenant Medical Center Cath Lab Medical Director." The Cardiac PET CT is valuable when diagnosing coronary artery disease, identifying microvascular dysfunction, and evaluating heart muscle viability after a heart attack. This imaging provides physicians with a clear view of how the heart is functioning, allowing them to create a precise treatment plan. This noninvasive scan ensures patients receive the highest quality care, improving outcomes and avoiding unnecessary procedures. Patients are encouraged to speak with their cardiologist to learn more about whether a cardiac PET CT may be right for them. The introduction of Cardiac PET CT addresses a critical gap in the region's healthcare access. Covenant Medical Group's investment in our communities ensures that patients receive comprehensive care close to home. In June, Covenant Health launched its new Lung Nodule Clinic at Pulmonary Associates, creating a streamlined pathway for patients with pulmonary nodules and strengthening our fight against lung cancer through early detection and timely intervention. Operating Monday afternoons, the clinic ensures that high-risk patients are evaluated within one week of nodule detection — eliminating delays and accelerating critical next steps. Patients are seen by our pulmonary experts, Dr. Ben Batson, Dr. Ximena Solis, Dr. Brian Williams, and Dr. Andrew Shakespeare, who utilize advanced diagnostics and minimally invasive techniques to identify lung cancer at its earliest, most treatable stages. Through close collaboration with Covenant Health's Joe Arrington Cancer Center, patients receive rapid referrals and coordinated support, allowing for early treatment decisions and seamless access to the highest quality of care. Since opening, the clinic has already served more than 140 patients — a powerful reflection of both the need and the impact of this proactive, specialized approach. By reducing delays, minimizing unnecessary procedures, and providing clarity when it matters most, the Lung Nodule Clinic offers patients peace of mind and the best possible chance for successful outcomes.Early detection saves lives. We are honored to bring this vital service to our community. Lung Nodule Clinic: Earlier Detection. Stronger Outcomes. "It offers a safer experience for patients with less radiation exposure and a quicker scan compared to traditional nuclear medicine stress tests." — Jason Strefling, D.O., Interventional Cardiology "A dedicated Lung Nodule Clinic, like ours at Covenant Health, ensures that patients receive timely evaluation, risk stratification and access to advanced diagnostics. " — Benjamin Baton, M.D., Pulmonology and Critical Care COVENANT HEALTH 2025 ANNUAL REPORT 1

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