Patients across B.C.鈥檚 Interior are seeing faster MRI exams and shorter wait times thanks to two new state-of-the-art MRI machines now up and running at 麻豆精选 General Hospital (KGH).
The expansion includes a new building, and upgraded imaging technology.
鈥淲ith shorter wait times, enhanced privacy and improved quality of care, patients can feel more supported and confident in their health journey,鈥� said Minister of Health Josie Osborne. 鈥淭his investment will ensure that people in 麻豆精选 have timely access to high-quality diagnostic services, leading to better health outcomes for patients and helping to save lives.鈥�
The hospital鈥檚 medical imaging department got a major boost with the addition of a new single-storey building that houses both a new 3T MRI scanner and a replacement 1.5T MRI scanner. These machines are faster and offer clearer images using artificial intelligence.
鈥淚nterior Health is delivering on its commitment to significantly improve access to MRI exams for people in our region,鈥� said IH president and CEO Susan Brown, who is set to retire by year's end. 鈥淭he new MRI machines at 麻豆精选 General Hospital will be able to perform up to 15,000 MRI exams annually, operating 17 hours a day, seven days a week.鈥�
Phase two of the expansion begins in May and includes renovations to the existing department, removal of the old 1.5T scanner, and upgrades to the patient and visitor waiting room.
Donors played a major role in making the project a reality.
鈥淏ecause of the support of donors, more patients will benefit from faster, more precise imaging, leading to earlier diagnoses and better treatment options,鈥� said Allison Young, CEO of the KGH Foundation. 鈥淭his kind generosity is changing lives and we are profoundly grateful to the community.鈥�
MRIs are used to diagnose a wide range of conditions, including brain abnormalities, tumours, soft tissue injuries, neurological disorders, some heart diseases, and certain cancers. Early diagnosis through imaging often leads to more effective treatment and improved quality of life.
The full project is expected to cost $37.8 million. Of that, $13.4 million is coming from the Central Okanagan Regional Hospital District, and $4.3 million from the KGH Foundation.
