Work has begun to replace the older of two computed tomography (CT) scanners at the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre with a new, state-of-the-art model.
The $2.4-million equipment replacement project is funded by Alberta Health Services through existing capital funding. The new scanner is expected to be operational in early spring.
CT scanners are critical diagnostic tools that enhance the ability to screen for and accurately diagnose medical conditions such as internal bleeding, lung disorders and cancer.
"The hospital will have reduced CT capacity during the installation. About 3,350 CT scans are completed monthly at the hospital between two scanners," AHS stated in a media release on Thursday, Jan. 30.
"Patients who require a CT scan urgently, including stroke patients, will continue to be supported at the hospital. Additionally, current inpatients and those patients who require a CT scan as part of scheduled follow-up for cancer or surgical care will be supported at the hospital.
"Some outpatient CT scans will be directed to other sites with the AHS Central Zone, including Wainwright, Drumheller, Drayton Valley, Wetaskiwin and St. Mary’s Hospital (Covenant Health) in Camrose as capacity allows. Hours of service will be increased at these sites to accommodate the increase in appointments."
Patients whose CT scan appointments are impacted are being contacted directly.
"The hospital’s diagnostic imaging department will continue to perform ultrasounds, X-rays and MRIs. Nuclear medicine and interventional procedures will also be unaffected," said AHS.
"Once operational, the new CT scanner will enhance the site’s CT scanning capabilities. New staffing positions will also be coming online in diagnostic imaging when the new scanner is operational, which will support efforts to reduce wait times for CT scans."
