CPMC becomes first of its size to purchase DNA analyzer

Submitted by Sydney Williams

Cabinet Peaks Medical Center is the first hospital of its size in the State of Montana to purchase a state of the art DNA amplification/extraction analyzer called a Biofire Molecular Gastrointestinal Pathogen.

This machine is used to simultaneously detect 22 organisms known to invade the human GI Tract. “This new analyzer will increase the accuracy of the diagnosis, as well as shorten the diagnosis and treatment time for our patients here at CPMC,” said Roger Riddle, lab professional of 43 years and Manager of laboratory at Cabinet Peaks Medical Center. “This means patients can be treated sooner and feel better faster. That is why we at CPMC are here.”

Riddle went on to state that with this new equipment diagnosis time is cut from three to five days for culture results, to one hour for DNA identification. Additionally, the accuracy of the new system for the detection of GI infections is 99.7 percent or better. “This is a huge improvement over the old culture method, and allows the provider to correctly treat the patient while they are still in the facility rather than three days later at home. The addition of this great analyzer also allows the provider to know immediately whether the use of strong antibiotics or other powerful drugs are needed.”

Riddle wrapped up by stating, “This new analyzer brings us abreast of the largest hospitals in the State of Montana concerning this testing platform. We hope to move forward with other new DNA analyzers in the very new future as to provide fast, quality information to our providers so they can help our patients become better in a timelier manner.