New scanner to reduce wait times

• New $2.2million MRI scanner at Royal Perth Hospital
• Increased inpatient and outpatient scanning capacity
• Reduced outpatient waiting times and inpatient length of stay
• Funded by the Medical Equipment Replacement Program

Health Minister Kim Hames today commissioned a new MRI scanner at Royal Perth Hospital.

The $2.2million scanner will significantly increase the number of MRI scans possible each day, and the doubling of equipment has resulted in improved imaging capacity for inpatients and outpatients.

Dr Hames said the additional resources and investment reflected the State Government's commitment to invest in the future of this hospital and enhance the first-class radiology service already being provided at Royal Perth Hospital

"This new scanner will provide clinical improvement in the quality and comfort for patients with an accompanying increased throughput of patients," he said.

"The demand for MRI scans continues to increase and this additional scanner will assist in reducing waiting times for patients and a reliance on private practices."

In addition to the new scanner, the radiology department has undergone a $1.5million refurbishment including a major redesign, improving access and work flow for staff.

The Minister said the Royal Perth Hospital radiology department saw about 180,000 inpatients and outpatients last year.

      Fact File

• The Division of Imaging Services at Royal Perth Hospital is the biggest public provider of medical imaging services in WA
• The department comprises:
  - Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology
  - Nuclear Medicine
  - Neurological Intervention
  - Diagnostic Imaging Pathways
• For more information visit http://www.rph.wa.gov.au/imaging

Minister's office - 9222 8788