New CT scanners for growing regions
Three new CT scanners are expected to help meet growing demand in Te Tauihu.
Te Whatu Ora Nelson Marlborough has welcomed a new dual energy scanner to Nelson Hospital, replacing the old machine.
A second scanner is expected in the next month, while a new machine is due to replace the existing one at Wairau Hospital in May.
The new machines would be faster and more comfortable for patients, Te Whatu Ora said in a statement.
“Upgraded equipment will help meet increasing demand for CT scanning in the region and enhance the experience for our patients with these faster and more comfortable scanners.”
The new technology comes as the demand for scans in the region has increased, with an average of 38 patients getting scans out each day in 2023, compared to 23 in 2017.
The new machine will give patients access to perfusion scans, giving detailed information on blood flow to the brain, and dual energy scans, which use a normal x-ray alongside a second less powerful x-ray to make images.
Lexie O’Shea, Nelson Marlborough Group Director Operations - Hospital and Specialist Services, said they were seeing more patients in the radiology department every year.
“This is partly down to growing clinical staff numbers referring to Radiology Medical Imaging Technologists who are now based in the department 24/7, and the approval of new pharmaceuticals which require scans as part of monitoring.
“The team is very excited to have a new scanner platform to learn from.”
Another new CT scanner is due to arrive at Nelson Hospital next month, bringing the total to two.
Having an additional scanner would allow staff to use one as a contingency for preventative maintenance and unplanned outages, and enable the radiology department to manage demand on the service, Te Whatu Ora said.