New Advanced X-Ray Unit Means Vernon Jubilee Hospital Can Now Do 10,000 More Images A Year
Machine is part of a series of recent medical imaging investments
VERNON, BC — People in the North Okanagan now have better access to important diagnostic care with the opening of another X-ray machine at Vernon Jubilee Hospital (VJH), meeting the growing need for more medical imaging closer to home.
“This addition will allow us to complete 5,000-10,000 additional exams, annually,” says Chris Simms, Interior Health Clinical Operations executive director for the North Okanagan. “That increased capacity helps shorten wait times, better supports urgent emergency and inpatient needs, and strengthens our ability to provide ongoing monitoring for patients who need it most.”
VJH’s Imaging Department performs more than 45,000 X-rays each year – about one exam every 10 minutes – making it one of the busiest imaging departments in B.C.’s Interior.
The new, state-of-the-art X-ray suite, which opened on Nov. 17, 2025, features an integrated 3D camera to assist radiographers with automated positioning guidance. This technology supports clear, consistent results, streamlining each procedure and helping keep patient radiation exposure as low as possible.
This new X-ray machine was generously funded through $1.2M in community donations to the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation during Light A Bulb in 2023.
ABOUT THE RECENT INVESTMENTS IN MEDICAL IMAGING
This advanced X-ray machine is part of a series of recent medical imaging investments made at VJH resulting in faster access and better patient outcomes. These investments include an MRI suite in 2019 and a CT scanning expansion in 2023, doubling capacity of that department. The creation of a new Ultrasound department is currently underway with expected completion in early 2027.
These medical imaging technologies – MRIs, CT scans, X-rays and ultrasound imaging – support advanced patient care, allowing physicians to non-invasively see inside the body. Medical imaging is used for everything from prevention and screening to early diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. Physicians are increasingly relying on scans for clinical decision-making and developing treatment plans for conditions and illnesses such as arthritis, lung infections, cancer, the need for hip or knee replacements, broken bones, and more.
The new, state-of-the-art X-ray suite at Vernon Jubilee Hospital means up to 10,000 more images can be done every year.
“Everyone will need an X-ray at some point in their life, and we’re incredibly grateful to all of the donors who have supported the growing need for more medical imaging,” says Kate McBrearty, executive director of VJH Foundation. “Demand for X-rays is increasing and with community support we’ve met that need. A third machine means more people in North Okanagan will have shorter wait times and faster access to critical diagnosis and treatments.”