Breathe Easy: Advanced Care of Respiratory Conditions
June 17, 2025
HSHS St. Francis Hospital proudly announces the acquisition of advanced Pulmonary Function Testing (PFT) equipment designed to meet growing patient needs and expand diagnostic capabilities. This investment brings enhanced respiratory care services directly to the local community.
The new state-of-the-art PFT machine enables the Cardiopulmonary department to locally perform precise testing for asthma and other respiratory conditions through Methacholine Challenge testing, eliminating the need for patients to travel to other facilities for this specialized diagnostic procedure. Methacholine Challenge testing is crucial for definitively diagnosing asthma and other respiratory conditions that may not be apparent through standard testing methods.
"This new equipment represents our commitment to providing comprehensive, accessible care for all members of our community," said Deanna Ellis, BSN, RN, Respiratory Therapy Manager. "We're particularly excited about the enhanced accessibility features that allow us to serve patients who previously faced barriers to testing."
The most notable advancement is the machine's extendable arm technology, which accommodates patients who cannot use traditional testing chambers, including those who are wheelchair-bound, bariatric or have other mobility limitations. This innovation ensures that all can receive the diagnostic care they need regardless of physical constraints.
Along with the addition of this new advanced equipment, St. Francis Hospital’s experienced cardiopulmonary team provides a full range of pulmonary function assessments to help diagnose and monitor:
To learn more about PFT services offered or to make an appointment after a doctor’s referral, contact HSHS St. Francis Hospital’s Cardiopulmonary Department at 217-324-8518. More information can be found here.
The new state-of-the-art PFT machine enables the Cardiopulmonary department to locally perform precise testing for asthma and other respiratory conditions through Methacholine Challenge testing, eliminating the need for patients to travel to other facilities for this specialized diagnostic procedure. Methacholine Challenge testing is crucial for definitively diagnosing asthma and other respiratory conditions that may not be apparent through standard testing methods.
"This new equipment represents our commitment to providing comprehensive, accessible care for all members of our community," said Deanna Ellis, BSN, RN, Respiratory Therapy Manager. "We're particularly excited about the enhanced accessibility features that allow us to serve patients who previously faced barriers to testing."
The most notable advancement is the machine's extendable arm technology, which accommodates patients who cannot use traditional testing chambers, including those who are wheelchair-bound, bariatric or have other mobility limitations. This innovation ensures that all can receive the diagnostic care they need regardless of physical constraints.
Along with the addition of this new advanced equipment, St. Francis Hospital’s experienced cardiopulmonary team provides a full range of pulmonary function assessments to help diagnose and monitor:
- Asthma and airway hyperresponsiveness
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Occupational lung diseases
- Pre-operative pulmonary evaluation
- Unexplained shortness of breath
- Chronic cough evaluation
To learn more about PFT services offered or to make an appointment after a doctor’s referral, contact HSHS St. Francis Hospital’s Cardiopulmonary Department at 217-324-8518. More information can be found here.
Media Contact
Vicki Macklin
Communications & Public Relations Specialist