New state-of-the-art scanner at Southend Hospital helping cancer patients
A new PET-CT facility has opened at the South Essex hospital
A new state-of-the-art scanner is now in place at Southend Hospital, meaning faster scans and shorter waits for cancer patients in Essex.
The new PET-CT facility is in a purpose-built single-storey centre featuring the latest imaging technology.
It has already welcomed its first patients and represents a major upgrade to the hospital's existing service.
The centre features a state-of-the-art scanner and significantly expanded areas for patients before and after scanning. The extra capacity will help support growing demand for cancer and other specialist diagnostic imaging.
Dr Shaifali Jain, Consultant Radiologist for Cancer Services, said: “This new facility is a significant enhancement to our existing PET-CT service, helping us deliver the high standard of care our patients deserve.
“The combination of modern scanner technology, increased capacity and improved patient facilities means we can provide a better experience for patients while supporting faster access to high-quality diagnostic imaging.”
Dr Jonathan Mo, Consultant Radiologist, said: “The equipment provides faster scans and is expected to allow around five extra patients to be scanned each day - an increase in capacity of over 20%.”
The new centre features six dedicated rooms to provide comfortable spaces for patients to wait after receiving a tracer injection and before undergoing their scan.
Larger waiting areas and improved patient flow will also help reduce congestion and create a calmer environment.
The centre also includes a laboratory, booking office and improved support facilities for patients and staff.
The facility is now fully operational after accepting its first patients last month.