Interior Health has parked a mobile computed tomography (CT) scanner at the East Kootenay Regional Hospital (EKRH) to continue services during renovations.
Starting Monday, March 3, major upgrade work will get underway in the medical imaging department, which will close the department until the job is completed.
“The CT Scanner renovation project for EKRH was approved in 2024 and is valued at more than $3 million, with the Kootenay East Regional Hospital District contributing $1.2 million towards the project,” said Interior Health.
Renovations will include a new Siemens X.ceed CT scanner, flooring, medical-grade ceiling tiles and a lead-lined door.
The imaging department will also get updated cooling/power systems, a ceiling-mounted patient lift, a hand-washing sink, an eyewash station and a drench hose station.
“The new Siemens X.ceed offers advanced imaging capabilities, shorter exam times, and reduced radiation exposure,” says Sean Hart, Interior Health project manager for the East Kootenay region.
“This will lead to improved patient outcomes and a more efficient workflow.”
Director of Medical Imaging for the North Okanagan and East Kootenay regions Scott Edmonstone says the old CT unit is due for a replacement.
“The machine is 15-plus years old, so it needs to be replaced. We got a lot of value out of it, but we want to upgrade,” said Edmonstone.
“With that comes new features, speed, less radiation and better cardiac imaging. These are all things that come with a more contemporary unit.”
In the meantime, patients can access the mobile scanner for medical imaging appointments until the new unit is up and running.
“We’re looking at a July timeline for renovations to be completed, then there is an install and accreditation process as we move into the new space, along with some training,” said Edmonstone.
“We’re looking at an August timeline for that to start taking patients.”
The mobile scanner will keep service levels consistent and remain available until August 15, 2025.
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