GRMC Ultrasound Technologists Advance Vascular Expertise, Strengthening Diagnostic Care for Guam Patients

GRMC Ultrasound Technologists Advance Vascular Expertise, Strengthening Diagnostic Care for Guam Patients

(Tuesday, October 20, 2026; Dededo, Guam) – For someone coming in for a vascular ultrasound, the concern is personal: What is happening with my circulation? What will this examination tell my doctor? Behind every image is a person waiting for answers—and a technologist working to help provide them.

At Guam Regional Medical City (GRMC), Ultrasound Technologists Kaja Tollett and Edward Truong have advanced their credentials in Vascular Technology. Their achievement means more specialized knowledge in the hands of the people caring for patients here in Guam.

Vascular ultrasound evaluates blood vessels and blood flow, helping physicians identify circulation problems, potential blood clots and other abnormalities. For Kaja and Edward, learning more about these examinations began with the patients they see every day.

The reason to keep learning is right in front of them

Kaja joined GRMC’s Radiology Department in July 2025, already registered in abdominal, gynecological and obstetrical ultrasound. She recently passed the vascular registry examination administered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Her motivation was rooted in the needs of the people she examines.

“We see a lot of patients with chronic diabetes and renal failure that have problems with their circulation or undergo hemodialysis on an ongoing basis,” Tollett said. “This certification helped me deepen my understanding of the circulatory system and disease
processes so our patients can be confident that they receive the best diagnostic exam possible.”

That connection matters for Guam’s patients living with ongoing health concerns. Kaja said her preparation strengthened her understanding of vascular anatomy and disease and helped her refine how she obtains diagnostic images.

Confidence earned through study and experience

Edward, who has been with GRMC for approximately a year and a half, already held credentials in Obstetrics and General Abdomen. The vascular examinations he performed at the hospital pushed him to learn more.

“At GRMC, we do a lot of vascular exams,” Truong said. “I wanted to improve my educational knowledge and gain confidence in vascular exams.”

He spent approximately two months intensely preparing for the examination. Earning the credential brought greater confidence but also reinforced the
importance of staying curious.

“It also taught me there is still so much to learn and being a good sonographer means that you have to have an open mind,” Truong said.

An achievement shared by the whole team
Neither technologist describes the journey as something accomplished alone. Kaja credited coworkers who shared study materials and encouragement. Edward acknowledged colleagues who guided him through more challenging examinations. That support turns individual learning into knowledge the department can share.

“Kaja and Edward’s accomplishments represent more than individual professional growth. They reflect the collective growth of our entire Radiology Department,” said Lloyd “Butch” Frosch, GRMC Radiology Manager.

“When our technologists continue to expand their knowledge and skills, that expertise is shared through collaboration, mentorship and the way we approach patient care as a team. Their commitment strengthens our department as a whole and helps us continue building a higher level of diagnostic imaging care for patients here in Guam.”

The new credentials recognize hard work. Their purpose is felt in the examination room: careful imaging, thoughtful attention and information that helps physicians guide care. Edward said the additional knowledge helps him solve problems and recognize pathology. Kaja hopes it also helps patients feel less afraid.

“I hope patients will feel well taken care of and that we can ease some of their fears and answer some of their questions as part of their care team,” Tollett said. “Providing high-quality vascular ultrasound studies helps them get the diagnosis and treatment that they need.”

Congratulations, Kaja and Edward. Your work to understand more, see more clearly and support one another is an investment in the people of Guam—one patient, one examination, and one conversation at a time. and one conversation at a time.

For more information about GRMC’s services, visit https://www.grmc.gu