NHH completes installation of new Magnetic Resonance Imaging machine
Northumberland Hills Hospital (NHH) and the NHH Foundation are pleased to announce that the installation of the new Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine and supporting equipment is complete. The MRI is now fully operational and patients are being accepted.
A key feature of NHH’s Diagnostic Imaging department for almost two decades, MRI is a unique, non-invasive examination that produces detailed images of the body's organs and tissues using a magnetic field, radio waves and a computer that takes detailed photos of a patient’s body. 6,719 MRI scans were performed at NHH in the last fiscal year, representing an increase of 4.9% from the prior year. NHH’s new MRI, with its enhanced technology, provides clearer, more detailed images – essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Key features of the new MRI service include:
- Capacity for faster scans to be conducted faster, meaning a reduction in wait times for patients and increased patient comfort with shorter scan times.
- Improved image quality and resolution to provide better visualization, supporting faster, more accurate diagnoses and treatment plans.
- Increased comfort for patients requiring MRI scans due to a larger diameter of the opening, resulting in less concerns for anyone experiencing claustrophobia.
- Dedicated changing rooms and lockers
Renovation of NHH’s MRI suite began on August 6, 2025, with the installation of a temporary MRI trailer, and the decommissioning of the hospital’s original MRI machine, which was installed in 2007. A key component of the hospital’s long-term capital equipment strategy, and the NHH Foundation’s Exceptional Community, Exceptional Care campaign, the much-anticipated new MRI machine arrived at NHH on December 6, 2025, and work began immediately to install and test the new equipment.
“The new MRI represents a transformative advancement of our Diagnostic Imaging services. It is a beautiful example of this team’s commitment to growth and continuous investment in new technology. I would like to thank NHH’s Diagnostic Imaging team for their work in minimizing the disruption to patient care during the renovation work. I also want to thank our community, whose generosity and enthusiasm—inspired by our outstanding NHH Foundation—supported this capital renewal project and ensured that NHH continues to be well-positioned to deliver exceptional care to our patients well into the future. Finally, I want to recognize our Procurement, Project Management, IT, Infection Prevention and Control, Facilities and Environmental Services teams, whose coordination and expertise ensured the successful and timely completion of this project,” says NHH President and CEO, Susan Walsh.
“To see the MRI now in service is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together,” said Rhonda Cunningham, NHH Foundation CEO. “An early lead gift from Don and Jane Hunter helped us tremendously to bring what was once a vision to this new reality. Thank you to the Hunters and to all those who joined in the effort to bring this advanced technology to our community.” Referring providers are encouraged to use the direct e-referral process for MRI referrals. Referral forms will also be found on the NHH website at nhh.ca in the ‘Patient Services’ tab under ‘Diagnostic Imaging’.