TOPEKA, Kan. (Sept. 9, 2025) — The University of Kansas Health System St. Francis Campus is the first hospital in Topeka to leverage advanced artificial intelligence technology to aid in the early detection and treatment of lung cancer. This groundbreaking initiative brings the latest in diagnostic innovation to northeast Kansas, empowering the health system’s St. Francis Campus physicians to detect lung cancer earlier and provide early treatment to improve outcomes for patients across the region.
St. Francis has integrated AI-powered technology from Eon that enhances the review of radiologist reports with documented incidental findings—lung nodules discovered unexpectedly during scans for other medical reasons. Eon helps ensure these findings do not go unnoticed, surfaces patients in need of follow-up, enables care teams to intervene sooner, supporting early diagnosis, treatment and long-term monitoring.
“This technology gives our care teams the clinical intelligence we need to act on findings immediately,” said Abhishek Chakraborti, MD. “It ensures every patient with lung nodules gets evidence-based follow-up care, even when specific recommendations aren’t included in the radiologist’s report. What’s especially meaningful is that we’re bringing this level of comprehensive care to our patients right here in Topeka. As the only hospital in Topeka with this technology, we are making it possible to benefit from early detection and advanced care closer to home.”
“Within our lung nodule program, our team of specialists works together to guide each patient through the next steps,” said Vimalkumar Patel, MD. “If a nodule looks concerning, we have the tools and expertise to move quickly. Having a coordinated program like this means less confusion, faster answers and a smoother path to the care they need.”
The use of AI in radiology is an emerging frontier in healthcare, and St. Francis is proud to be at the forefront of this innovation. Patients in Topeka and the surrounding areas no longer need to travel far for sophisticated lung nodule management programs typically found in larger metropolitan areas. By embedding Eon’s AI-powered platform into their diagnostic imaging and care management workflows, St. Francis is ensuring earlier detection, timely intervention and a better chance at survival for those at risk of lung cancer.
To learn more about this program and St. Francis Campus’s commitment to advanced care, visit KUTopeka.com/Services/Pulmonary-Care or call 785-295-9401.
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About the Lung Nodule Program
The University of Kansas Health System St. Francis Campus lung nodule program brings together a dedicated team of experts, including a pulmonary navigator, radiologists, thoracic surgeons, oncologists and interventional pulmonologists. These specialists work closely to ensure patients receive coordinated, evidence-based care. By combining their clinical expertise with advanced technology, they help patients move smoothly from diagnosis to treatment, focusing on better outcomes and peace of mind.
About The University of Kansas Health System
The University of Kansas Health System St. Francis Campus in Topeka is proud to be a part of a long legacy of high-quality, compassionate care. St. Francis Hospital began serving its community in 1909 as the mission of a group of Catholic nuns who rose to meet a need. Today, St. Francis Campus is jointly owned by The University of Kansas Health System and Ardent Health. It has 378 licensed inpatient beds, 21 primary and specialty care clinic locations—including a cancer center location in partnership with The University of Kansas Cancer Center, and a history of technological advancements and dedicated staff. To learn more about The University of Kansas Health System St. Francis Campus, visit KUTopeka.com.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Debbie Cluck
Director of Marketing & Communications
The University of Kansas Health System St. Francis Campus
785-491-8363
Debbie.Cluck@ArdentHealth.com