Approval has been given to Mayo General Hospital for a new permanently-based MRI scanner and a replacement CT scanner. The money for MRI and CT scanners has been raised through the generosity of the people of Mayo. The funds were raised by a number of established cancer charities, and the core groups involved were Cancer Action Mhaigh-Eo and the Bright Eyes Campaign.
The HSE will build an extension to the radiology department to house the new MRI machine and provide the staffing for the new service.
“This is an excellent example of a joint venture between the local community and the hospital to ensure that the people of Mayo will have speedy access to the highest quality radiology services,” said Charlie Meehan, manager of Mayo General Hospital.
These highly sophisticated pieces of equipment will have a very significant role to play in the investigation of patients diagnosed with different types of cancer. MRI and CT scanning has also become an increasingly important tool in early and accurate detection and diagnosis of a range of other diseases and injuries.
It is planned to have the new service up and running by May 1. The new MRI service will be provided on a four day a week basis from the current two day a week service and will significantly reduce waiting times for these investigations.
The HSE and Mayo General Hospital have thanked the people of Mayo for their support and generosity. “We particularly acknowledge the hard work and dedication of Cancer Action Mhaigh-Eo and the Bright Eyes Campaign who brought this project to fruition,” a HSE spokesperson said.
