The Bon Secours Hospital Tralee this week announced the launch of a new in-house MRI and CT imaging service, which came into action on Monday, July 27, following a €2 million investment in diagnostic technology.
The new service is expected to provide faster access to MRI and CT scans, improve patient pathways and strengthen collaboration between general practitioners, consultants and the hospital’s radiology department. The investment also expands the range of diagnostic services available locally for patients across Kerry and the surrounding region.
The hospital’s new MRI scanner incorporates AI-enhanced technology, including Deep Resolve and BioMatrix, designed to reduce scan times while producing high-quality diagnostic images. The system also uses significantly less liquid helium than conventional MRI scanners and includes energy-saving technology to reduce its environmental impact.
The new CT scanner is designed to improve the patient experience through faster scan times, motion correction technology and advanced image reconstruction, enabling high-quality imaging even where patients have difficulty remaining still. It also features dose-reduction technology to minimise radiation exposure while maintaining image quality.
Commenting on the new service, Ms Deirdre O’Connor, Radiology Services Manager at Bon Secours Hospital Tralee, said:
“The introduction of our own MRI and CT services marks a significant milestone for our radiology department and, most importantly, for the patients we serve. These state-of-the-art scanners combine pioneering AI-enhanced imaging with faster scan times and exceptional image quality, enabling us to deliver an outstanding diagnostic service.
“By bringing these services in-house, we can work even more closely with our General Practitioners and clinical teams to provide quicker access to diagnostics, greater continuity of care and a more seamless patient experience. We are also proud to be the first private hospital in Ireland to introduce this innovative MRI technology.”
The hospital has also established a team of consultant radiologists with specialist expertise across a range of disciplines, including neuroradiology, musculoskeletal imaging, abdominal and gastrointestinal imaging, paediatric radiology, vascular and interventional radiology, head and neck imaging, breast imaging and urological imaging.
The consultants have been recruited from hospitals in Ireland and the UK, providing specialist reporting across a broad range of clinical conditions. The hospital said access to sub-specialist radiologists will support earlier diagnosis, treatment planning and imaging interpretation for both GPs and consultants.
T.J. O’Connor, CEO of Bon Secours Hospital Tralee, added:“Combining leading-edge MRI and CT technology with the expertise of an exceptional team of consultant radiologists ensures our patients have access to the highest standard of diagnostic care without having to travel outside the region.”
Original source: ie