Patients at the Halifax Infirmary site of the QEII Health Sciences Centre will soon have access to a new state-of-the-art magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner.
The government is investing $5-million to cover the purchase, installation and operation of a new MRI unit, which is essential to meet the clinical requirements and acceptable wait time standards for cardiac and neurology health services.
“Nova Scotians deserve timely access to high-quality healthcare. This includes having access to the equipment needed for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning,” said Health Minister Michelle Thompson. “The new MRI at the Halifax Infirmary will provide patients and medical staff with up-to-date equipment and address wait times for required care.”
MRI machines use powerful magnets and computers to take detailed pictures of internal organs and systems inside the body. These pictures are necessary for clinicians to make important decisions about treatment.
“This is fantastic news for the patients of Nova Scotia and the Maritimes. Our existing MRI at the Halifax Infirmary is the busiest in the province and getting a new system will reduce our downtime and increase the number of scans that we can perform. This will mean more access to better care for our patients.” said Dr. James Clarke, Chief of Diagnostic Imaging, Central Zone, Nova Scotia Health.
The new scanner will replace the existing one at the Halifax Infirmary, which is the busiest in the province and has exceeded its lifespan. It will be the primary unit for both cardiac and neurosurgery for the province and neurology at the QEII.
The unit will operate seven days a week and average 100 hours of use per week. It is expected to be operational by fall 2022.
