The façade of Building 12 at Canberra Hospital will be removed to install a new Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine. The installation project will cost $9 million.
Building 12 was designed for the façade to be removed when new machinery is installed or needs to be replaced.
While one machine is offline for the next few months, plans are in place to continue the usual volume of scans to ensure timely care for patients who need an MRI.
The MRI service at Canberra Hospital will increase to seven days a week with longer operational hours every day. Arrangements with private imaging providers are also in place for non-acute elective patients and inpatient scans for this period.
Health minister Rachel Stephen-Smith said the new MRI will improve medical imaging technology at Canberra Hospital. The extra ‘horsepower’ of the new MRI, she explained, means scans can be done to a much higher level of detail, leading to better outcomes for patients.
“The new MRI machine will improve diagnosis and treatment time for patients. It will provide clinicians with access to a machine that is easier to use and has increased functionality.
“This significant upgrade, combined with the recent installation of a new CT scanner into the Canberra Hospital’s Imaging Department, reflects the ACT Government’s commitment to investing in modern, state-of-the art infrastructure and equipment across the ACT health system.
“Investing in new technology is also an investment in the workforce. By providing access to modern technology and investing in innovative model of care, we are growing the knowledge and experience of the workforce in the ACT.”
Other infrastructure projects at Canberra Hospital, Ms Stephen-Smith said, include the Critical Services Building, the expansion of the Centenary Hospital for Women and Children, upgrades to Pharmacy and Medical Imaging services, and a new cancer research centre.
“The ACT Government will continue to invest in new equipment and infrastructure to ensure our dedicated teams can provide high-quality care to support the health of our region,” Ms Stephen-Smith said.
