Hospital’s new scanner to end long-distance travel

Gisborne Hospital’s MRI team are looking forward to the arrival of a new state-of-the-art MRI machine approved for the Hospital. The MRI team include (from left) team leader Helena Campbell, radiographer Nicole Kemp, manager Debbie Cordiner, MRI trainee Libby Hollis and radiographer Gemma Jones. Picture supplied

More patients will be able to have a scan closer to home now a new MRI machine has been approved for Gisborne Hospital.

The state-of-the-art MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) machine will replace the hospital’s 10-year-old machine. MRI technology has vastly improved in the past decade and the new equipment will be an essential diagnostic tool.

“Our goal is to be able to provide outstanding healthcare here in Tairāwhiti with access to quality imaging,” Te Whatu Ora Tairāwhiti hospital and specialist services operations interim group director Anne Aitcheson said.

“MRI is a non-invasive way for a medical professional to examine organs, tissues, and the skeletal system.

It produces high-resolution images of the inside of the body that help diagnose a variety of conditions.”

In Gisborne, most patients are having abdominal, musculoskeletal, and neurological scans.

The new machine has faster scanning capabilities than the previous one, creating a more comfortable experience, and allowing for even more people to be seen each day.

“The new machine’s software processes higher-quality images assisting with accurate diagnoses,” Ms Aitcheson said.

“Another advantage of the upgraded technology is that heart and prostate images, which are currently processed offsite, will now be processed in-house.

“It means local patients will have access to the same services as everyone else in New Zealand without having to travel.”

The MRI is a huge investment for Tairāwhiti residents. It’s hoped the $2.8 million project will be in place in the middle of next year.