1.
Nuclear Medicine Department
Definition:
Nuclear medicine is a medical specialty that uses small amounts of
radioactive materials (radiopharmaceuticals) to diagnose and treat various
diseases. It is a branch of molecular imaging and is different from traditional
radiology.
Functions:
Diagnostic imaging (e.g., PET scan, SPECT scan, bone scan, thyroid
scan)
Therapeutic procedures (e.g., radioactive iodine therapy for
hyperthyroidism or thyroid cancer)
Monitoring the progression of diseases like cancer, heart disease, and
neurological disorders
Common Procedures:
Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT)
Bone Scintigraphy
Thyroid Uptake and Scan
Renal Scans
Importance:
Provides functional imaging to detect abnormalities before structural
changes become visible
Helps in early diagnosis and better treatment planning
2. Radiotherapy Department
Definition:
Radiotherapy (or radiation therapy) is the use of high-energy radiation,
usually X-rays or gamma rays, to destroy or damage cancer cells while
sparing normal tissues.
Functions:
Curative treatment of cancers (e.g., breast, prostate, cervical cancer)
Palliative care to relieve symptoms such as pain or bleeding
Pre-operative or post-operative therapy to reduce tumor size or
prevent recurrence
Importance:
Non-invasive or minimally invasive can be combined with surgery and
chemotherapy
Targets specific cancer cells, improving survival rates
[Link] Services Department
Definition:
This department is responsible for conducting tests and imaging studies that
help in the diagnosis, monitoring, and management of diseases.
Functions:
Provides critical information to aid in medical decision-making
Confirms clinical diagnoses
Helps in screening for diseases
Importance:
Early and accurate diagnosis
Reduces unnecessary treatments
Enhances patient safety and quality of care
[Link] Social Services Department
Definition:
This department addresses the social, emotional, and economic needs of
patients and their families in the hospital setting.
Functions:
Counselling patients and families
Assisting with discharge planning
Connecting patients to community resources and financial aid
Support during grief, trauma, or chronic illness
Importance:
Improves patient well-being and coping mechanisms
Ensures continuity of care post-discharge
Bridges the gap between medical care and social support
