Construction is underway at the Kincardine hospital on a 2,000 square foot addition to house a new CT scanner.
The addition will be located directly south of the main entrance, adjacent to the east side of the existing hospital building. It will house a private CT suite, technologist area, patient prep room, wait space, change room, washroom, and stretcher holding area.
A purchase order for the Siemens “Edge Plus” CT scanner was issued in April 2021, to be produced in time for delivery when the CT suite addition is complete. Since issuing this purchase, a new CT scanner model has been released from Siemens.
Siemens has offered SBGHC an opportunity to switch to the new “X.Cite” model, which features artificial intelligence that automatically positions the scanner to improve image quality and reduce radiation dose, at no additional cost for the equipment or service contracts.
SBGHC’s Clinical Team have completed an assessment of the two CT scanner models, and have recommended to proceed with the new Siemens X.Cite CT model.
“The Kincardine and Community Health Care Foundation fully supports the decision to upgrade to the latest Health Canada approved CT scanner, the ‘X. Cite’ model” says Becky Fair, Chair of the Kincardine Community Health Care Foundation. “Having the most advanced CT technology that improves image quality while reducing radiation dose is a significant benefit to patients, while being able to access quality care close to home."
The CT suite addition has been sized to accommodate an upgrade in scanner models, however, a switch to the X.Cite model will require some minor alterations to the mechanical and electrical designs.
“Every day, patients are traveling out of the Kincardine community to access CT service, and in many cases, our staff and physicians are leaving the hospital to accompany them. The installation of a CT scanner means that patients can now complete this diagnostic imaging without leaving the hospital, saving time and stress for the patient and their families,” said Michael Barrett, President & CEO of SBGHC.
The CT scanner at the Kincardine hospital is expected to be operational in February 2023.
