PRAIRIE NORTH HEALTH REGION UPGRADES DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENT

Prairie North Health Region will be purchasing and upgrading diagnostic imaging equipment valued at approximately $190,000, thanks to funding from Saskatchewan Health.

The region will spend approximately $47,000 to upgrade equipment so it is able to produce digital images.  The changes are in preparation for implementation of a Radiology Information System (RIS) and the accompanying Picture Archiving Communication System (PACS) in 2008.  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.”

Prairie North Health Region will spend an additional $143,000 to purchase a new mammography unit to replace the one that has been in service for the past 15 years. The equipment was identified as a high priority by the region.

“We are thankful for Saskatchewan Health’s continued commitment to the digitization process in Diagnostic Imaging and replacement of aging equipment,” Prairie North Health Region CEO David Fan said.  These investments will no doubt greatly enhance patient care in Prairie North.”

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.  Fan 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

David Fan
Prairie North Health Region
North Battleford
Phone: 306-446-6622