WCHS Welcomes New Advanced CT Scanner
September 2, 2026
Winnebago, NE –The Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System has installed and begun using a new state-of-the-art CT machine. Providers and patients alike are excited to welcome this advancement in patient care that offers significant improvements to the diagnostic imaging capabilities of this Native-serving hospital and clinics.
A computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) is a medical imaging test that uses X-rays and a computer to make detailed cross-sectional pictures of the inside of your body. United Imaging uCT ATLAS 4cm is a 160-slice CT system that features a 0.25-second rotation speed, an 82-centimeter ultra-wide bore, and a 700-pound table capacity, enabling fast, detailed imaging of patients of all shapes and sizes. This advanced, AI-powered technology allows us to create images with the least amount of radiation exposure available on the market. This new machine will expand access to high-end diagnostic imaging previously unavailable within a 75-mile radius of Winnebago, Nebraska.
“This is a significant advancement for WCHS and our community,” said Austin Schanzenbach, Chief Transformation Officer. “This technology gives our patients access to advanced diagnostic imaging closer to home while also helping us identify cardiovascular risk earlier, expand cancer screening and diagnostic capabilities, and find disease before it becomes more difficult to treat.”
The uCT ATLAS 4cm offers advanced, potentially life-saving imaging capabilities, including cardiac, whole-organ, and stroke imaging, 3D imaging, and an accelerated CT workflow. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in Native Americans, with rates about 50% higher than those of white Americans. "The silent killer" is a common medical nickname for high blood pressure (hypertension) because it causes dangerous internal damage without showing any early warning signs. Hypertension (high blood pressure) is a major contributing risk factor for the development of coronary artery disease. Coronary artery disease (CAD), more commonly referred to as Heart Disease, leads to reduced blood flow and oxygen to the heart muscle, which can result in chest pain, heart attacks, and long-term heart damage. One example of how this technology can benefit patients is that WCHS can now offer coronary artery calcium scoring. Calcium scoring is a quick, noninvasive scan that detects calcium buildup in the heart’s arteries, which is often one of the earliest indicators of coronary artery disease.
To learn more about these new screening opportunities, schedule an appointment by calling or using the . Take an active step toward your health by talking with your WCHS provider to determine if any of these expanded screening options may be right for you.