As a result of generous community support, the most advanced x-ray technology continues to be available close to home for patients of west Northumberland. In the spring of 2021, both digital x-ray rooms at Northumberland Hills Hospital (NHH) were renovated and replaced with the latest x-ray equipment – a project totaling nearly $800,000.
“General radiography, or x-ray, is the most frequently performed imaging procedure at NHH,” shares Ian Moffat, Director of Diagnostic Imaging. “In the first two full months of operating these two new digital x-ray units, 3,511 examinations have already been performed – about 34% of all diagnostic imaging procedures in that same time period. We’re grateful to the community for funding the replacement and renovations of both of our digital x-ray rooms so we can continue to provide the best care possible for inpatient, outpatient, and emergency care.”
Since first opening in 2003, NHH has operated two digital x-ray rooms to meet the need for services and diagnostic procedures – a need which is steadily increasing as the population of west Northumberland continues to grow and age. Benefits achieved by both new generation xray systems include:
• Improved image quality and ability to image at a higher resolution to provide better visualization, supporting faster, more accurate diagnoses and treatment plans
• Reduced level of radiation exposure for patients
• Faster image processing, making the image production almost instantaneous
• Wireless image detectors that can be positioned to best capture the image
• Utilization of robotic technology to efficiently auto-position equipment for a variety of xray examinations, reducing the possibility for technologists to experience strains or injuries
Funds to replace these digital x-ray systems were raised by NHH Foundation through both the Equipped to Care campaign and the CARING. Close to Home Gala in 2020.
“Funds were needed not only for the purchase of the new equipment, but also the renovations to both rooms to accommodate the new technology, and our community truly stepped up to bring this $794,867 project to life,” shares Rhonda Cunningham, Executive Director of NHH Foundation. “We cannot thank our donors enough for ensuring our community and the patients of NHH have access to this instrumental technology.”
Diagnostic imaging is critical in diagnosing, screening, and monitoring a majority of illnesses and injuries and is used to support all departments throughout NHH. As the most frequently performed imaging procedure, general radiography (x-ray) is used to assess for broken bones, pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses; traumas such as motor vehicle accidents and falls; arthritis; and more.
The role of hospital foundations across the province is to raise funds to support the purchase of medical equipment and capital needs faced by Ontario hospitals. A recent announcement from NHH Foundation about plans for an upcoming capital campaign – to be Chaired by local businessman, Hank Vandermeer – indicated more diagnostic imaging needs facing NHH in the near future, with one of the campaign’s three priorities being the replacement of both the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) scanners.
For more information on how you can support advanced medical equipment and technology at NHH, please visit www.nhhfoundation.ca.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
