Donation Benefits Patients with Thyroid Conditions

Horizon Health continues to advance local healthcare with support from its Foundation and the PCH Volunteers.

The Horizon Health Foundation of East Central Illinois recently purchased an anatomical training model for performing ultrasound-guided thyroid biopsies.

The Paris Community Hospital Volunteers provided the funding that allowed the Foundation to purchase the device for the office of Dr. Edward Rico. As an endocrinologist, Dr. Rico provides specialty care for patients with thyroid issues, diabetes, and other hormonal disorders.

“As we prepare to recognize the PCH Volunteers during National Volunteer Week, we thank them for the service and support they provide through their time, talent, and treasure,” said Randi Bohannon, foundation executive director.

A thyroid biopsy is done to find the cause of a nodule (lump) in the thyroid gland. Using ultrasound, sound waves guide the precise placement of a fine needle that is used to extract a cellular sample from the thyroid.

Dr. Rico’s office plans to perform in-office thyroid biopsies in the near future. The training model will further educate staff about the intricacies of performing a biopsy, according to Dr. Rico.

“It’s to support the patients,” Dr. Rico explained. “If a biopsy is needed, it’s more convenient for the patient to have it done here rather than having to travel somewhere else.”

Approximately half of American adults over age 60 years have thyroid nodules, Dr. Rico said. The vast majority of those cases are non-cancerous.