23/09/2003

Minister officially opens new MRI suite at City Hospital

Health Minister, Angela Smith has opened Belfast City Hospital’s new MRI suite where a new scanner has recently been installed.

Commenting on the latest advancements in telecardiology, the Minister said the new scanner represented leading-edge MRI technology which would bring undoubted medical benefits to patients in both the Cardiology and Radiology Units.

She added: “I have also been most impressed by the pioneering work in advancing telecardiology. It considerably improves the patient experience, when they can visit their local hospital or GP and link up to this leading cardiology centre for assessment and treatment. Indeed, in line with Developing Better Services, it is very encouraging to see the collaboration with local hospitals and the primary care sector.”

The new scanner represents leading-edge MRI technology and is the same model as the one which will be installed in the new Cancer Centre Building. This has considerable advantages in terms of training of both radiologists and radiographers in advanced imaging. It also allows a full range of MRI investigations to be undertaken and can be upgraded to meet future needs.

Belfast City Hospital is currently recognised as a leading telecardiology centre within Europe.

Since 1989, when the centre linked to GPs, significant pioneering work has been undertaken. Presently, there are now telecardiology links to local hospitals and 14 health centres throughout Northern Ireland.

(MB)

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