CARTI expands services in El Dorado

CARTI announced this week that its El Dorado cancer center is adding 3D screening and diagnostic contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) to its services. Later this year, as part of the finalization of its comprehensive cancer center, CARTI said it will also provide advanced imaging and radiation therapy.

“Our commitment to ensuring no one goes without access to care is particularly vital in rural areas like south Arkansas with disproportionately high cancer incidence rates,” said Adam Head, president and CEO. “This expansion will be transformational for patients and their families, allowing women to receive diagnostic services, including contrast-enhanced mammography, and treatment from the convenience and comfort of their community.”

With help from Gov. Sanders and legislative leaders, CARTI secured $7 million in funding through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) in 2024 to complete its $19 million comprehensive cancer center in El Dorado (Union County).

The National Cancer Institute reports that only 63.3% of women 40+ in Union County had mammograms in the past two years. The numbers are even lower for Medicare recipients. The County Health Rankings & Roadmaps found that just 31% of enrollees in Union County received an annual mammogram in 2024.

“Decades of research show that annual mammograms save lives, yet far too many women still lack access to these vital screening tools,” said Shyann Renfroe, M.D., a board-certified, fellowship-trained breast imaging specialist. “By offering trusted local breast care, we will address this urgent gap to help improve women’s outcomes.”

The Breast Center at CARTI is the first in the state to offer CEM, a diagnostic imaging tool used to evaluate suspicious findings from a conventional mammogram and assess potential breast cancer spread. CEM may also serve as a breast MRI alternative for qualifying patients.

Women of average risk should begin annual mammograms at age 40. At age 25, all women should receive a risk assessment from their primary care provider to determine whether earlier, more frequent or additional screenings may be beneficial.

CARTI has 18 locations across the state.