Photo: KHSC, Facebook
A new MRI designed specifically for breast imaging has opened in Kingston, with officials saying it will help improve breast cancer care and reduce wait times for other patients.
Kingston Health Sciences Centre officially opened the MRI Thursday at its Breast Imaging Kingston site.
The unit will allow about 2,500 breast MRI exams currently performed at Kingston General Hospital each year to move to the new location.
KHSC President and CEO Dr. David Pichora says that will free up MRI capacity for other patients waiting for scans.
He also says this is just the beginning.
The MRI provides detailed images that can complement mammograms and ultrasounds, helping health-care teams assess breast abnormalities, determine the extent of disease and plan treatment. Clinical Chair Dr. Doris Jabs explains more.
The $6-million project was funded in part through community donations, including $1 million raised by the Rose of Hope committee over three years.
KHSC now operates three MRI machines, compared with one several years ago. Ontario will cover the MRI’s annual operating costs.
Story by Alyssa Brush
