LAKEPORT, Calif. – Beginning March 11, Sutter Lakeside Hospital will no longer offer breast biopsy services.

The traveling biopsy service, United Medical Systems, which contracts with the hospital, will no longer operate in the state of California.

“Our sister affiliate, Sutter Pacific Medical Foundation, will partner with Sutter Lakeside patients to ensure the patients’ needs are met,” said Sutter Lakeside Hospital Chief Administrative Officer Siri Nelson.

SPMF also uses the Sutter Electronic Health Record, so doctors, nurses, and techs across the system can seamlessly communicate with one another and provide continuity of care.

“We’re bringing 3D mammography and image-guided biopsies to Sutter Lakeside Hospital in 2017, Nelson said. “In the meantime, we’re working to provide a local solution for our patients.”

Sutter Lakeside Hospital’s committed imaging staff will help patients schedule biopsy appointments with Sutter Pacific Medical Foundation in Santa Rosa, though patients should check with individual insurance providers for more specific coverage information. 

Mammography and breast MRI services will not be affected.

To learn more about Sutter Lakeside, or schedule a tour, please visit www.sutterlakeside.org/ or call 707-262-5121.