As part of continued significant investment in the South West Acute Hospital’s (SWAH) diagnostic infrastructure, a new MRI scanner will be installed in the Radiology Department at the hospital in the coming weeks.

The replacement of the MRI scanner is the next stage of equipment upgrade for the SWAH, totalling more than £1.7 million in investment.

This includes the recent instalment of a new CT scanner and digital radiography rooms.

A new mobile image intensifier for SWAH theatres is also due to be delivered in the coming months.

In order to provide continuity of service for patients during the replacement of the MRI scanner, the rental of a mobile MRI unit has been secured.

Works to install the mobile MRI will commence in the coming days, with delivery of the mobile MRI scanner expected imminently.

Tracey McIvor, Radiology Services Manager for the Western Health and Social Care Trust, said: “We are delighted that essential diagnostic radiology equipment at the SWAH is being updated, which includes a new MRI scanner installation over the next few weeks.

“The SWAH provides a local MRI service for patients from Fermanagh and Tyrone, and also delivers the Trust-wide cardiac MRI scanning service.

"Replacement of the MRI scanner in the SWAH is essential to continue to provide a high-quality, safe and efficient diagnostic service for Western Trust patients.

“All recently replaced equipment was installed 10 years ago. Thanks to advances in technology, new equipment for CT and MRI scanning will reduce scanning times and enhance diagnostic capabilities.

“We look forward to continuing to provide the very best quality of care to the Fermanagh and Tyrone communities we serve.”

 

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