New CT scanner at Vernon Jubilee Hospital (photo credit VJH Foundation)

By Liam Verster

should reduce wait times

New CT scanner ready to use at VJH

Mar 19, 2024 | 1:45 PM

Vernon Jubilee Hospital has increased its diagnosis and treatment capabilities as the CT scanner expansion has been completed.

The project began in 2022 with the installation of a new, top-of-the line CT scanner, replacing an aging machine.

Through a public fundraiser launched in the 2022 Light A Bulb campaign, the Vernon Jubilee Hospital (VJH) Foundation was able to raise $6.3-million to purchase a new CT scanner to add to the hospital.

The foundation said Tuesday, March 19, that the new scanner had been installed, and a new patient waiting area and offices for radiology staff are also ready for use.

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“Improving access to life-saving medical imaging has been a top priority for the foundation in our partnership with IH (Interior Health) in recent years,” VJH Foundation Executive Director, Kate McBrearty, said.

“Population growth and increasing demand for CT scans had pushed our old machine to its limits and CT expansion was identified as an area of crucial need.”

CT scanners are medical imaging devices that produce detailed images of the body’s internal structures, and the new machine installed at VJH is a new, advanced model that is able to produce better, sharper images with faster scan times than previous models.

“This initiative reflects our dedication to promoting health and well-being for all, by improving access to innovative and improved technology for Vernon and area residents in their community,” Andrew Hughes, executive director of clinical programs, laboratory, medical imaging and pharmacy for Interior Health, said.

“This is technology that can help healthcare providers diagnose and plan treatments for patients. Embracing innovation and replacing aging equipment are important priorities to maintain a high standard of care.”

Having the new machine available should help reduce wait times for diagnoses, allowing people to access treatment sooner.

It should also provide medical teams with a greater ability to perform non-invasive procedures, which will take pressures off operating rooms and decrease patient recovery times.

“The CT expansion is a huge investment in patient care, but it’s also a significant investment in our staff,” Dr. Adam Weathermon, former department head of Imaging at VJH and VJH Foundation campaign cabinet member, said.

“As physicians and medical staff, we all want to provide the best possible care. Having access to this innovative, life-saving technology in a bright, open welcoming space means we can do a better job of caring for our patients.”

In 2023, VJH conducted a total of 26,850 CT scans, and approximately 52 per cent of those were for emergency or inpatients, and 48 per cent for outpatients.