New x-ray unit for Neepawa hospital
- Details
- Published on Tuesday, May 6, 2014
By: Kate Jackman-Atkinson
myWestman.ca
On May 2, the Neepawa Health Centre proudly unveiled its newly renovated x-ray suite, complete with a new machine.
On hand were representatives from the Parkland Regional Health Authority, Diagnostic Services Manitoba, Christie Innomed (the company that oversaw the project and provided the equipment) as well as the Neepawa hospital staff who use the equipment.
The new x-ray suite is state-of-the-art and replaces one that was over 13 years old. While everything from the flooring up was replaced, the highlight is the new x-ray machine, a "Shimadzu Radspeed". The powerful, all-digital unit works with advanced software that allows the machine to use less radiation when performing the x-ray. The new unit control module also makes it easier and faster for the technician operating the machine.
Also upgraded was the bed, which now offers more adjustability to make moving patients on and off as easy as possible. The new bed also allows for adjustments from multiple positions around the bed.
Work on the project began approximately seven months ago and the decision was made based on the volume of patients seen in Neepawa and the age of the existing unit. The total project cost approximately $300,000 and work was completed on time and on budget.
The final installation took place three weeks ago the unit has been is service since then. Between 5,000 and 6,000 patients receive x-rays in Neepawa each year and five technicians work in the facility. Kyle Gluska, charge tech of the diagnostics for the Neepawa hospital, praised the new unit.
“It gives us many more options,” he said.
The equipment from the old x-ray suite has been repurposed and recycled. For example, the old bed was moved into the Neepawa hospital’s second x-ray suite.
In addition to two x-ray units, the Neepawa hospital also offers ultrasound testing, one of only two rural hospitals in southwestern Manitoba to offer this service.
The Minnedosa hospital also received a new x-ray unit. It was unveiled to the public on May 2.
