South West Illinois News

Sparta Community Hospital has introduced new endoscopy technology to improve cancer screening and detection for patients in Randolph County and nearby areas. The hospital has acquired the Fujifilm ELUXEO Endoscopy System, which features advanced imaging, artificial intelligence-driven detection, and aims to provide shorter procedures. According to the hospital, this upgrade is intended to increase accuracy and patient comfort while making high-quality screenings more accessible locally.

The purchase of the new equipment was made possible through the WE CAN Cancer Initiative with support from the National Rural Health Resource Center’s Delta Region Community Health Systems Development Program and the Health Resources and Services Administration.

Colorectal cancer remains a significant health concern in the United States, particularly affecting rural communities where access to timely screenings can be limited. By offering updated endoscopy services locally, Sparta Community Hospital seeks to reduce travel burdens for patients and help ensure earlier diagnosis. The hospital stated that earlier detection leads to better survival rates, less invasive treatments, fewer missed workdays, reduced financial strain from travel, and greater peace of mind for families.

The need for upgraded equipment was identified by the surgical team at Sparta Community Hospital. Leadership responded by investing in technology that supports earlier detection and more accurate diagnoses.

Endoscopy and colonoscopy services are now available three days a week at Sparta Community Hospital. These procedures are performed by Gastroenterologist Dr. Giuseppe Aliperti along with General Surgeons Dr. Ziya Baghmanli and Dr. Margret DeGuzman.

“At Sparta Community Hospital, we Believe in Better—better technology, better access, and better outcomes for our patients and families,” said a statement from the hospital. “That’s why we’ve invested in advanced endoscopy equipment to expand access to lifesaving cancer screenings.”

“With sharper imaging, AI-driven detection, and shorter procedures, this technology improves accuracy and patient comfort while ensuring families across Randolph County and surrounding communities can access high-quality screenings close to home,” according to the release.

“By offering advanced endoscopy technology locally, Sparta Community Hospital helps patients Believe in Better Health—removing barriers to care and ensuring that lifesaving screenings are available right here at home,” stated hospital representatives.

“For our community, it also means fewer missed workdays, less financial strain from travel, and greater peace of mind knowing care is close when it’s needed most,” they added.

“The need for this upgrade was first identified by our surgical team...hospital leadership ensured both patients and providers now have the tools necessary for earlier detection, more accurate diagnosis, and better outcomes,” read another part of their statement.

“At Sparta Community Hospital, every investment we make is guided by one goal: to help our patients and families Believe in Better—better technology, better care, and better health for our community.”

For additional information about surgical services at Sparta Community Hospital or scheduling details regarding endoscopic procedures such as colonoscopies or upper GI studies with Drs. Aliperti, Baghmanli or DeGuzman on staff three days weekly at SCH’s surgery center location (call 618-443-2177 ext 1336), visit their website or contact them directly.