Much loved ex-colleague, John Mannion, had the honour of cutting the ribbon to open the new state-of-the-art MRI suite in the HRI Radiology Department this morning. John was a former Radiology Assistant at CHFT. 

The new scanner is a £1.8m investment to replace an aging scanner and is the latest advancement in MRI technology. This ensures MRI is:

• More efficient – with faster scan times and streamlined workflows
• Clearer – offering enhanced image resolution and diagnostic precision
• More patient-friendly – through open designs and quieter scans
• Broader in clinical application – enabling earlier detection and improved monitoring across a range of condition

Service Lead, Mark Williams, said: "This new MRI scanner means CHFT are up-to-date with the latest MRI technologies. It means that our patients are getting the very best diagnostics tests available. Modern equipment such as this means we can keep on top of waiting lists, ensuring that we keep them going down."

Senior Estates Officer, Jammal Mohammed, said: "Working closely with our clinical team, we’ve designed a comfort-focused, patient-friendly MRI environment that prioritises both wellbeing and diagnostic excellence.

"The room features skylights and calming design elements which have been weaved together to help reduce anxiety and make the imaging process more relaxing for every patient.

"CHFT is leading and committed to delivering a modern MRI experience that leads to better care, earlier diagnosis, and improved outcomes using the latest technology."

Thank you to everyone who has been involved in the project.