PRINCE ALBERT PARKLAND HEALTH REGION UPGRADES DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENT

Prince Albert Parkland Health Region will be purchasing and upgrading diagnostic imaging equipment valued at more than $300,000, thanks to funding from Saskatchewan Health.

The region will use most of the funding to replace two ultrasound machines at Victoria Hospital that do not produce digital images.  The changes are in preparation for implementation of a Radiology Information System (RIS) and the accompanying 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.”

The health region will also purchase a new X-ray machine to replace one that had been in service for 20 years.  The equipment was identified as a high priority by the region.

“This investment in new equipment is an important step in developing a state-of-the-art solution to ensure access to diagnostic tools, which enables our excellent physicians, nurses and technologists to provide quality care for our patients,” Prince Albert Parkland Health Region CEO Cecile Hunt said.

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.  Hunt 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 

Doug Dahl
Prince Albert Parkland Health Region
Prince Albert
Phone: 306-765-6102