Patients in Abbotsford and surrounding Fraser Valley communities now have access to upgraded diagnostic imaging services following the opening of a modernized MRI suite at Abbotsford Regional Hospital and Cancer Centre.
The $4.95-million project is expected to improve image quality, shorten some scanning times and increase annual MRI capacity. The upgraded Crystal Gala Foundation MRI suite combines newer imaging equipment, artificial intelligence technology and advanced software designed to provide clinicians with more detailed diagnostic images.
“I am excited that people in Abbotsford and the surrounding communities are getting answers to the care they need,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Health. “The new, upgraded MRI suite means faster scanning, clearer images and a more comfortable experience for patients. This investment, made possible through strong partnerships with Fraser Health and local donors, is helping us deliver better, faster care and improve the patient experience in the community.”
$4.95-Million Investment Brings Advanced MRI Technology to Abbotsford
The project was funded through partnerships involving the Province of British Columbia, Fraser Health, the Fraser Valley Regional Hospital District, Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation and Crystal Gala Foundation.
Local fundraising also played a significant role, with the Crystal Gala Foundation contributing $1 million toward the project through support from donors.
The upgraded MRI system, a Signa Artist 1.5 EVO MR30, incorporates AI technology and advanced software to produce sharper and more detailed images of the body’s internal structures. The improvements are intended to help clinicians examine areas that can be difficult to image and support more accurate diagnosis of medical conditions.
The system is expected to complete more than 8,500 MRI scans annually, representing an increase of more than 500 scans per year. Some examinations can also be completed more quickly than with the previous system.
Patient Comfort Included in MRI Suite Upgrade
The upgraded system includes a larger bore designed to accommodate patients of different sizes, along with blanket-like coils intended to improve comfort during examinations. Quieter scanning is another feature aimed at making the experience less stressful for patients.
“When providers need imaging, to determine diagnosis and care for people, getting the answers they need quickly can make a real difference in care,” said Dermot Kelly, president and CEO, Fraser Health. “This upgraded MRI will help more people get the scans they need, sooner, in a setting that is faster and more comfortable. We are grateful to our foundation partners and donors whose support helped make this investment possible and will help improve care for people in our communities.”
Rather than replacing the entire MRI system, the existing equipment was stripped down to its magnet and completely refurbished. According to the project partners, that approach reduced waste and the equipment’s carbon footprint while lowering helium consumption and costs.
Community Donors Support Expansion of Diagnostic Imaging
The Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation said partnerships with community organizations and donors were central to completing the project.
“The new MRI at Abbotsford Regional Hospital represents a significant investment in health care for our community,” said Liz Harris, Executive Director, Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation. “Through our partnership with the Crystal Gala Foundation and the generosity of our donors, patients will have greater access to advanced diagnostic imaging close to home. We are incredibly proud of what can be achieved when organizations come together with a shared commitment to improving patient care. Community support continues to make projects like this possible.”
The Crystal Gala Foundation, a volunteer-run organization, highlighted the role of its donors and sponsors in funding the upgrade.
“As a 100% volunteer driven organization – no staff, no office, no overhead – we are very proud that our donors and sponsors gave so generously to make this new upgraded MRI at ARHCC a reality for our families and communities,” said Gerri Charles, President, Crystal Gala Foundation.
Fraser Health Expands MRI Capacity Across the Region
MRI technology is used in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of conditions, including cancer, stroke, multiple sclerosis, heart disease and neurological and musculoskeletal disorders. The technology can also help identify abnormalities involving the brain and spine, as well as tumours, cysts and soft-tissue injuries elsewhere in the body.
The Abbotsford investment forms part of a broader effort to modernize and expand MRI capacity across the Fraser Health region.
Similar initiatives are underway at Delta Hospital, Surrey Memorial Hospital and Peace Arch Hospital as health authorities work to increase access to diagnostic imaging and accommodate growing demand for medical services across the region.