MRI scanner flat out to reduce waiting times

The Western Trust also plans to install a second MRI scanner on the Altnagelvin site to deal with the increase in demand as well as ensure resilience of services. It has vowed that no child should have waited more than 9 weeks for a scan by the end of this month.

According to figures released by the Health Minister 429 adults and 58 children are waiting for scans here. The average waiting is between 0 and 6 weeks.

The Minister stated: “The Trust currently provides access for MRI scans for all patients in the catchment area regardless of age.”

Children are also offered a General Aesthetic MRI service at Altnagelvin.

“GA scanning occurs on two mornings per month with additional sessions being created as and when required to stay within the 9 week waiting time standard. The Trust expects no child to have waited more than 9 weeks for an MRI scan by the end of March 2012,” the Minister stated.

The Trust has implemented an extended working day on the scanner in Altnagelvin including evenings, and Saturday and Sundays when required.

It is also developing plans with the HSCB to install a second MRI scanner on the Altnagelvin site to deal with the increase in demand as well as ensure resilience of services.

The health authority has a contract with an Independent Service provider to deliver MRI scanning in the Erne Hospital for the local population and also the population of the whole trust to minimise waiting times. This service will run to June 15, 2012.

A new MRI scanner will be operational in the Southwest Acute Hospital from June 21, 2012.