Increased Access to Life-Saving CT Scans with Open of VJH CT Scanner Expansion

Installation of two next-generation CT machines and expanded, purpose-built space means faster patient care now, and in the future

Interior Health (IH) and Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation (VJHF) are taking significant steps towards advancing patient care and improving patient experience with the completion of the CT scanner expansion at Vernon Jubilee Hospital (VJH).

“Improving access to life-saving medical imaging has been a top priority for the Foundation in our partnership with IH in recent years,” said VJH Foundation Executive Director, Kate McBrearty.

“Population growth and increasing demand for CT scans had pushed our old machine to its limits and CT expansion was identified as an area of crucial need.”

The expansion includes the replacement of an aging CT scanner with a top-of-the line new machine installed in 2022. Following that, another advanced CT scanner, a new patient waiting area, a control room next to the existing one, and new offices for radiology staff are now open. Having two scanners will enhance response times for emergency and trauma patients.

“It’s a testament to the remarkable generosity of our donors and our wonderful community that we were able to raise the $6.3M needed in record time,” said McBrearty.

A $1M anonymous gift was the spark for the Foundation to take on this project. The campaign went public during the annual Light a Bulb appeal in 2022. The outpouring of generosity enabled the Foundation to reach their goal months ahead of schedule.

“People living in Vernon and the surrounding areas will have increased access to crucial and timely diagnosis with this additional CT scanner,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health. “Our government is expanding team-based health care, reducing wait times for patients, and increasing state-of-the-art care for those who need it most across the province. We deeply appreciate the generosity and dedication of the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation and thank them for all they do to strengthen health care.”

A CT scanner is a medical imaging device that uses X-rays and advanced computer processing to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body's internal structures. Newer CT scanner technology, like the machines acquired by VJH, produce better, sharper images with faster scan times, and enable medical teams to see inside the body without operating.

“This new CT scanner is great news for people in Vernon and the region, who will directly benefit from increased access to top quality medical imaging,” said Harwinder Sandhu, Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors' Services and Long-Term Care, and MLA for Vernon-Monashee. “This will help to reduce wait times and will help with quicker diagnoses for better health outcomes. Our government is dedicated to continuing to grow capacity in our health care system so people can access the care they need close to home.” 

This means more patients at VJH will have access to life-saving treatment. Medical teams will also have greater ability to perform non-invasive procedures that reduce pressure on operating rooms and decrease patient recovery times.

“This initiative reflects our dedication to promoting health and well-being for all, by improving access to innovative and improved technology for Vernon and area residents in their community,” said Andrew Hughes, executive director of clinical programs, Laboratory, medical imaging and pharmacy for Interior Health. “This is technology that can help healthcare providers diagnose and plan treatments for patients. Embracing innovation and replacing aging equipment are important priorities to maintain a high standard of care.”

In 2023, VJH conducted a total of 26,850 CT scans, averaging approximately 2,237 scans per month. Approximately 52% of scans were for emergency or inpatients and 48% for outpatients.

“The CT expansion is a huge investment in patient care, but it’s also a significant investment in our staff,” said Dr. Adam Weathermon, former department head of Imaging at VJH and VJH Foundation campaign cabinet member. “As physicians and medical staff, we all want to provide the best possible care. Having access to this innovative, life-saving technology in a bright, open welcoming space means we can do a better job of caring for our patients.”

No one knows better than Leanne Ramsey just how meaningful access to a CT scan can be. The young mom and mental health worker has lived through three cancer diagnoses in three years, needing 15 CT scans through her journey back to health. She has been a vocal champion of the expansion project since its launch.

“I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for the early diagnoses that I received through CT scans,” said Leanne. “Just think how many more people now have access to life-saving treatment thanks to this important initiative.”