West Prince residents now have access to new digital radiography suites and the best in X-ray technology at both Western Hospital and Community Hospital O’Leary, says Health and Wellness Minister Doug Currie.
“Government recognizes the importance of investing in rural health care and we were pleased to partner with the hospital foundations to make this modern technology and service enhancement possible,” said Minister Currie.
“Through this $840,000 investment, West Prince residents now have access to higher quality x-ray images that are instantly available for technologists to review.”
The new equipment provides technologists with a better patient view during the imaging process and emits a lesser dose of radiation to the patient, adding to the safety and quality of testing. A more user-friendly elevating table is easier and more comfortable for patients during the procedure.
“These two x-ray systems represent the latest technology in digital radiographic suites,” said Maxime Roy, Modality Manager Diagnostic and Interventional X-Ray with Philips Healthcare Canada. “As North American ‘First-of-Kind’ sites, Western Hospital and Community Hospital O’Leary were designated to be reference centers in Canada for other health care practitioners to be able to see Philips technology.”
In 2014-15, there were 5,363 X-ray procedures done at Western Hospital and 1,831 at Community Hospital O’Leary. It is anticipated that, with the new more efficient digital equipment, more procedures will be done between both hospitals.
“To be recognized as ‘First-of-Kind’ sites in North America by Philips Healthcare Canada is an incredible honour and achievement for the diagnostic imaging service at Western Hospital and Community Hospital O’Leary,” said the minister.