"The entire suite is designed to relax and reassure the patient through their radiology experience and is, without doubt, a first in Hawke's Bay," she said.
The equipment is housed in an environment with local landscape imagery and illuminations that they hope will take patients on a journey of comfort and relaxation.
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Lead MRI radiologist Dr Andrew West said the new equipment will make it easier for local patients.
"The benefits of this is that we can scan patients in Hawke's Bay instead of them having to travel to places like Palmerston North or Wellington to get their high-tech MRI scans done," he said.
Dr Andrew West, lead MRI radiologist and Ann Maaka, senior MRI MRT with the new MRI scanner. Photo / Warren Buckland
Dibley said the new scanner also includes features that will make the experience of having an MR more pleasant, with faster scanning times, improved image quality and quite likely, a reduced need for medication for those who suffer from anxiety or claustrophobia.
It is also energy efficient and kinder to the environment.
On Tuesday morning TRG held a blessing for the opening of the new suite.
TRG has started upgrading its Hastings clinic which, Dibley said, would bring a "new look" to the region's healthcare services, not seen before.
"We have collaborated closely with the local DHB to ensure we can help support the community, enabling advanced MRI imaging for the wider region which previously was not possible locally," she said.
She added the new technology will also attract talented radiographers and radiologists into the region.
"We look forward to welcoming our first patients onto the scanner next Monday, with the official opening of the scanner from April 6," Dibley said.
