Hospital opens first MRI machine
The new Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) program is operational at Collingwood General and Marine Hospital (CGMH).
“This new service will allow CGMH to complete 5,500 MRI scans annually, significantly reducing regional wait times and providing patients faster access to critical diagnostics close to home,”said Dr. Murray Miller, Chief of Radiology. “It’s a major step forward for healthcare in our community.”
Located on the hospital’s lower level, the MRI suite occupies 2,000 square feet of newly renovated space.
“We’re proud to open this new service to our community,” said Michael Lacroix, CGMH President and CEO. “This state-of-the-art technology delivers exceptional image quality, speed, and efficiency, all within a patient-friendly design. It reflects our ongoing commitment to investing in advanced tools that enhance patient care and create capacity to support both our clinical teams and the communities we serve.”
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is an advanced diagnostic imaging technique that uses powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to generate exceptionally detailed, three- dimensional images of the body’s internal structures. The technology allows physicians to visualize organs, bones, muscles, and blood vessels with remarkable precision. MRI plays a vital role in diagnosing and monitoring a wide range of medical conditions, guiding treatment decisions, and improving patient outcomes.
In a press release, CGMH said it is deeply grateful to the provincial government for approving the new MRI for the community – one of many new MRI’s being introduced at hospitals across the province. The hospital also extends heartfelt gratitude to the community and the CGMH Foundation for their extraordinary generosity and steadfast support. Raising over $5 million is a powerful testament to our community’s shared commitment to equipping CGMH with leading-edge technology.
Local resident, Jen Lauriault (above) was the first patient scanned using the new MRI machine.
“This is fantastic,” she said. “Thanks to this advancement, I was able to have my appointment five months earlier than originally scheduled – without the added stress of leaving my community. It’s truly a game-changer for access to local healthcare.”
The opening of the new MRI reflects the power of strong government investment, generous community philanthropy, and collaborative healthcare leadership working together to improve access to care. Together, we are expanding our capacity to meet today’s healthcare needs – as we proceed along our journey of building our hospital of tomorrow.
