SASKATOON HEALTH REGION UPGRADES DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENT

Saskatoon Health Region will be purchasing and upgrading diagnostic imaging equipment valued at more than $2.9 million, thanks to funding from Saskatchewan Health.

The region will spend approximately $2.6 million to replace or upgrade equipment so that it is able to produce digital images.  The changes are in preparation for next year’s implementation of a Radiology Information System (RIS) and Picture Archiving Communication System (PACS).  These systems will improve diagnostic imaging services, and make images and results available electronically to health care providers across the province.

“The benefits of this technology are substantial for both patients and health providers,” Health Minister Len Taylor said.  “This investment is another step toward increasing our capacity to provide service.  The improvements will reduce duplication, and help save time and money for patients and the health system in general.”

Saskatoon Health Region will spend an additional $245,000 to purchase a new ultrasound machine that will replace a unit that had been in service for 10 years.  The equipment was identified as a high priority by the region.

“This funding will be put to immediate use in providing upgraded medical imaging equipment within the Saskatoon Health Region,” Saskatoon Health Region director of medical imaging and nuclear medicine Corey Miller said.  “Further, the new medical capital equipment will ensure that Saskatoon Health Region is prepared for a seamless transition to the RIS-PACS systems next year.”

In total, Saskatchewan Health is distributing over $5 million to health regions to upgrade and replace diagnostic imaging equipment.  That includes $300,000 in funding saved last year because health regions purchased equipment in bulk through the Saskatchewan Association of Health Organizations.  Miller added that approach also saved the health region the time and effort involved in initiating its own formal procurement process.

Recent investments in diagnostic imaging services have significantly increased the services being provided.  In 2005-06, Saskatchewan provided 22 per cent more MRI exams, 16 per cent more CT scans and 37 per cent more bone mineral density tests.  MRI wait times dropped most dramatically, falling 42 per cent over the last two years.

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For more information, contact:

Joan Petrie
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: jpetrie@health.gov.sk.ca 

Kerilyn Voigt
Saskatoon Health Region
Saskatoon
Phone: 306-655-3386