THE ROYAL Berks has opened the doors to a new suite of scanning aparatus following a multi-million pound investment.
The NHS Trust has finished two years’ worth of work installing a new CT scanning suite at the site on London Road.
The purpose-built facilities will include two state-of-the-art computerised tomography scanners, installed in a comfortably furnished environment away from the busier parts of the hospital.
It also features new smart glass installations with two-way communication between staff and patients during scanning procedures.
Around 100 patients a day will be scanned at the suite, with x-ray scanners being used to diagnose cancer and strokes, or assessing damage caused by incidents such as road traffic accents.
This can also lend support to other services such as through the monitoring of tumour growth to inform radiotherapy, and to guide biopsies.
Sarah Guzvica, CT lead radiographer said, “We know that for people coming in to see us to have a scan, whether planned or unplanned, it can be an unsettling and concerning time.
“We hope that the new suite, and the little additions we’ve made, for example real time CCTV in the scanner as well as the two-way microphones so we can keep in touch, help to make the experience of coming to see us as smooth as possible.
“For the team, it’s the thought that’s gone into the build that’s really going to help. For example the scanning rooms are bigger so there’s more room for us to move around and help patients that might have additional mobility needs.”
Julie Cameron, associate director in Radiology at the trust, said, “I’m delighted that the new suite is now open to patients.
“We are proud to be able to offer a wider range of procedure and treatments at the Royal Berkshire Hospital in a purpose built environment.
“I hope the investment shows just how committed we are to making the latest equipment and techniques accessible to our local community.”
