Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) technology is available in the Goldfields region for the first time with a 1.5T Magnetom Sola MRI machine now fully operational at Kalgoorlie Health Campus.
A key election commitment of the McGowan Government, the $1.75 million state-of-the-art machine is unique in that it automatically adjusts to the anatomy of each patient - leading to a more accurate diagnosis and assessment.
This particular MRI machine also has the unique ability to remotely support scanning of patients.
This feature allows technologists who are based in Perth or other regional sites to connect to the machine and provide real time technical support and training to on-the-ground specialist staff.
In 2019, almost 600 patients from the Goldfields accessed the Patient Assisted Travel Scheme to make the round trip of almost 1,200km to Perth to access MRI services.
By delivering on this election commitment, the McGowan Government has ensured Goldfields residents have timely access to important diagnostic services closer to home and without the added cost and disruption of travelling to Perth.
As stated by Health Minister Roger Cook:
"The McGowan Government remains absolutely committed to providing world-class care close to home and the delivery of this specialist MRI machine is just another example of us delivering on that commitment.
"The Goldfields is one of our largest health regions and Kalgoorlie Health Campus plays a huge role in providing quality healthcare to the community.
"Access to specialist diagnostic tools like this MRI not only reduces the burden of travel on patients but empowers local clinicians to quickly diagnose and treat patients close to home."
As stated by Kalgoorlie MLA Ali Kent:
"The McGowan Government made a commitment to the Goldfields that we would deliver on this project and utilise local industry and materials throughout the build.
"I am pleased to say that we have done just that and delivered on an election commitment for the people of the Goldfields region."
