Photo courtesy of the VJH Foundation

By Liam Verster

More Imaging Capabilities

New X-ray machine will offers thousands more exams, reduce wait times at VJH

Jan 28, 2026 | 6:00 AM

The local hospital has a new machine to help with diagnostic care.

A new X-ray machine has come online at Vernon Jubilee Hospital (VJH), adding capacity to the local hospital’s Imaging Department that already conducts roughly 45,000 X-ray scans each year.

“This addition will allow us to complete 5,000-10,000 additional exams, annually,” Chris Simms, Interior Health’s Executive Director of Clinical Operations for the North Okanagan, stated.

“That increased capacity helps shorten wait times, better supports urgent emergency and inpatient needs, and strengthens our ability to provide ongoing monitoring for patients who need it most.”

The new machine was funded through the roughly $1.2-million raised during the 2023 Light A Bulb campaign.

Fire spreads to house

Vernon home "significantly damaged" by grass fire

19h ago

Youth Health Services

Youth immunization, sexual health clinic opening in Vernon

Apr 02, 2026

Displaced For A Week

Some residents still displaced from fatal apartment fire

Apr 01, 2026

“Everyone will need an X-ray at some point in their life, and we’re incredibly grateful to all of the donors who have supported the growing need for more medical imaging,” Kate McBrearty, executive director of VJH Foundation, said.

“Demand for X-rays is increasing and with community support we’ve met that need. A third machine means more people in North Okanagan will have shorter wait times and faster access to critical diagnosis and treatments.”

VJH opened a new, state-of-the-art X-ray suite in November of 2025 which features an integrated 3D camera to assist radiographers with automated positioning, allowing for clearer and more consistent results as well as a streamlined procedure.