The Real News Louisiana

Natchitoches Regional Medical Center (NRMC) is proud to announce that its Cancer Center PET/CT Imaging Project has been included in the Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Bill, designating $4,035,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) to support the purchase, installation, and facility expansion and renovations necessary to bring critically needed PET/CT imaging technology to NRMC’s campus.
NRMC extends its sincere gratitude to Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D., Senator John Kennedy, and their dedicated staff for championing this vital project through the Congressionally Directed Spending process and advocating for improved access to advanced diagnostic care for rural patients across northern and central Louisiana. Their leadership and commitment were instrumental in securing this essential funding.
This federal investment directly addresses a critical gap in access to advanced diagnostic imaging in NRMC’s service area, which in addition to Natchitoches Parish includes patients from Sabine, Winn, Grant, and Red River Parishes. Cancer and heart disease are the two leading causes of death in the region, yet patients currently must travel between 60 and 76 miles one way to access the nearest PET scanners, often facing wait times of up to two months. These delays can significantly impact outcomes for patients facing life-threatening conditions.
“In keeping with our core purpose, Caring for Our Community, the addition of PET-CT imaging now completes our Cancer Center continuum of care,” explained Kirk Soileau, NRMC Chief Executive Officer. “Cancer touches the lives of so many families in our community. With heartfelt gratitude to Senator Cassidy and Senator Kennedy, we are excited to get to work expanding the NRMC Cancer Center for advanced PET CT.”
A PET/CT scanner is an essential diagnostic tool that allows physicians to detect cancer and cardiovascular disease earlier, develop more precise treatment plans, reduce radiation exposure to healthy tissue, and monitor treatment effectiveness. Bringing this technology to NRMC’s campus, will reduce delays in care, improve treatment compliance, and ease the physical, emotional, and financial strain placed on patients and families who currently must travel long distances for critical testing and endure weeks to months appointment delays.