New MRI is operational at NHH
By Cecilia Nasmith
Northumberlandland Hills Hospital and the NHH Foundation are pleased to announce that the installation of the new Magnetic Resonance Imaging machine (and supporting equipment) is now complete.
The MRI is now fully operational, and patients are being accepted.
A key feature of NHH's Diagnostic Imaging department for almost two decades, this unique equipment provides non-invasive examinations to produce detailed images of the body's organ and tissues, using magnetic field waves and a computer that takes detailed photos. Over the last fiscal year, 6,719 MRI scans were performed at NHH – up 4.9% from the previous year.
With its enhanced technology, the new MRI provides clearer, more detailed images that are essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Key features of the new MRI include:
The capacity for faster scans to be conducted faster, meaning reduced wait times for patients.
Improved image quality and resolution for better visualization, supporting faster and more accurate diagnoses and treatment plans.
Increased comfort for patients requiring MRI scans, due to faster scans and a larger diameter of the opening (a concern for anyone experiencing claustrophobia).
Dedicated changing rooms and lockers.
Renovations to the NHH MRI suite began Aug. 6 with the installation of a temporary MRI trailer and the decommissioning of the hospital's original MRI machine (installed in 2007).
A key component of the NHH Foundation's Exceptional Community, Exceptional Care campaign, the much-anticipated new MRI machine arrived Dec. 6, and work began immediately to install and test the new equipment.
NHH President and Chief Executive Officer Susan Walsh said it represents “a transformative advancement of our Diagnostic Imaging services. It is a beautiful example of this team's commitment to growth and continuous investment in new technology.
“I would like to thank NHH's Diagnostic Imaging team for their work in minimizing disruption to patient care during the renovation work. I also want to thank our community, whose generosity and enthusiasm – inspired by our outstanding NHH Foundation – supported this capital renewal project and ensured that NHH continues to be well positioned to deliver exceptional care to our patients well into the future.”
Walsh also extended thanks to Procurement, Project Management, IT, Infection Prevention and Control, Facilities and Environmental Services teams for their co-ordination and expertise in completing the project.
“To see the MRI now in service is a powerful reminder of what's possible when a community comes together,” Foundation Chief Executive Officer Rhonda Cunningham added.
“An early lead gift from Don and Jane Hunter helped us tremendously to bring what was once a vision to this new reality. Thank you to the Hunters, and to all those who joined in the effort to bring this advanced technology to our community.”
Referring providers are encouraged to use the direct e-referral process for MRI referrals. Referral forms can also be found at nhh.ca in the Patient Services tab under Diagnostic Imaging.