MRI upgrade in Building A

16 Oct 2016

 

Work began Oct. 10 to replace one MRI in Building A. With its increased weight limit, the new Siemens scanner will accommodate larger patients, help patients feel less claustrophobic, and offer shorter scan times and improved image quality.

Over the next four months:

• A mobile MRI scanner (inside a trailer) will be at the south side of Building A through Feb. 1. The MRI being replaced should have been removed by Oct. 14.
• Installation of the bariatric lift in MRI Zone 2 corridor will occur Oct. 17 to 21.
• Remodeling will affect access, so access will be through the MRI scan room without an MRI scanner through Nov. 26.
• From Nov. 26 to Jan. 10, construction will occur inside MRI room; with installation of new MRI between Jan. 10 and 27.

Impacts of the Mobile MRI:

• IMPORTANT: Only one MRI scanner will be available for ED and inpatient use (unless the patient is ambulatory and not on oxygen). We will work to reduce the outpatient schedule during peak hours of IP/ED MRI use.
• MRI Room 1 has been shut down until the project start date of Jan. 27.
• Mobile MRI will be located on the back dock of Building A with access via back hallway and a metal walkway/deck.
• Mobile MRI is suited for outpatients/patients who can safely ambulate into the trailer.
• Non-ambulatory patients will be scanned in the main MRI dept. where all exams are currently done.
• Mobile MRI does not have medical gases and will not be suitable for patients needing this feature.

As schedules are finalized, we'll inform you of any changes. Please contact Justin Millar, Mary Ransome, or Anna Mench with any questions or concerns.