CT scanner at Vernon Jubilee Hospital. (submitted photo/VJH Foundation)

By Pete McIntyre

Light A Bulb

Holiday campaign to support second CT scanner

Nov 15, 2022 | 12:00 PM

The push to fund a second CT scanner at Vernon Jubilee Hospital will be the focus of this year’s Light A Bulb campaign.

The VJH Foundation has launched the annual fundraiser, saying the medical equipment is urgently needed.

“With only $900,000 left to raise toward the $6.3 million total and more than 2,000 people across the North Okanagan on a waitlist for CT scans, the community is already so close to ensuring patients get faster access to scans, diagnosis and treatment,” Kate McBrearty, executive director, said.

Local resident Leanne Ramsey had 11 CT scans when she was diagnosed with cancer three times in three years, and knows how stressful the wait is.

“When you’re waiting for your CT scan, you feel so anxious for answers,” Ramsey said. “Any wait feels like an eternity.”

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The foundation said VJH has one of the busiest CT scanners in the province, operating 16 hours a day and performing more than 20,000 scans a year, even though provincial guidelines now require a second scanner after 14,000 scans. Right now, the average wait time is 68 days.

“Doctors need rapid access to CT scans to provide quick assessments and optimal patient care,” Dr. Adam Weathermon, department head of medical imaging at VJH, said.

“Stroke, cancer, trauma and emergency care are just a few areas where CT scanning can make all the difference. Having two scanners will mean more efficient care, less waiting and better outcomes for patients.”

(Image credit: VJHF)

A $1 million gift was the catalyst for the foundation to begin a $6.3 million CT Scanner Expansion Campaign, and thanks to significant early support, there’s only $900,000 left to raise.

“This $1 million gift was so transformative in inspiring others to do what they could to help,” McBrearty said. “We’re excited to see how close we are, and now we encourage the community to come together to help us get over the finish line this Light a Bulb season.”

To donate or find out more, click here.