The Illawarra community is one step closer to benefitting from enhanced access to medical imaging services, with a new MRI machine installed at Wollongong Hospital as part of a $21.9 million investment to upgrade health services and infrastructure.
The MRI machine was carefully craned into its new home on Level Two around 1am this morning, marking a major step in the delivery of new medical imaging facilities at Wollongong Hospital, which will expand imaging capacity and include an additional CT scanner.
When fully operational, the additional MRI will help deliver diagnostic services for a wider range of patients, including those requiring breast imaging, biopsy services, and cardiac imaging.
The new medical imaging facilities will be located across two levels, with the CT scanner near the Emergency Department on Level One, enabling improved access for diagnostic services.
With the MRI in place, equipment commissioning and testing is being carried out, in preparation for radiographers and nurses to undertake training for the machine ahead of operations commencing.
Work on the expanded medical imaging department is expected to be complete in early 2026.
In addition to the medical imaging upgrades, a relocated Medical Ambulatory Care Unit and an expanded Transit Lounge was recently completed as part of the works at Wollongong Hospital, improving patient flow and supporting outpatient care.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:
"We are delivering the health infrastructure our growing community needs.
"The installation of the new MRI machine is a key step in delivering expanded medical imaging capacity at Wollongong Hospital."
"The new medical imaging facilities ensure people have access to world-class diagnostic technology closer to home."
Quotes attributable to Member for Wollongong Paul Scully:
"This is a major milestone in the ongoing investment in Wollongong Hospital which will improve patient care.
"The installation of this MRI and upgraded medical imaging department will provide patients with better access to diagnostic services ultimately leading to better health outcomes.
"This investment coupled with the additional nursing staff recruited to meet staffing ratios in the Emergency Department and the $220 million commitment in the recent Budget for the next redevelopment of Wollongong Hospital will expand health services in the region to help meet growing demand."
