A new Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanner has launched at Medway NHS Foundation Trust’s multi-million pound Community Diagnostic Centre in Sheppey, marking a major milestone for the facility.
The new four-tonne machine, which has already seen its first patients, is expected to transform access to essential diagnostic imaging in line with the Trust’s Patient First improvement programme, offering quicker diagnosis, improved patient experience, and reducing travel times for residents in Swale.
This marks the second phase of the centre’s opening after patients were first offered Computerised Tomography (CT) scanning from late 2024.
Based at Sheppey Community Hospital in Minster, the addition of the MRI scanner will significantly enhance diagnostic capabilities at the centre, which is helping to provide a range of vital tests and scans closer to home, for patients on the Isle of Sheppey, in Sittingbourne, and elsewhere in Swale.
Lorraine Becconsall, Head of Imaging at Medway NHS Foundation Trust, said:
‘’This is a significant step forward in improving access to vital imaging services. The new MRI will offer hundreds of extra scans every month to patients across Swale, to help diagnose different conditions and ensure they receive the appropriate care and treatment.
‘’Previously, many patients had to travel further for MRI scans, but with this new facility, we can provide high-quality diagnostic imaging closer to home. This means quicker diagnosis, faster treatment planning, and an overall improvement in patient care.”
Patricia Burton, from Minster, was one of the first patients to access the new facility and said: ‘’It’s really important to have this service close to my home as it saves a lot of time, money and stress on travelling. The parking was plentiful, and the centre is clearly laid out and easy to find.
‘’I found the scan was quick and comfortable, and it was nice that the staff kept me updated throughout to let me know how it was progressing. They were very supportive, and I felt well cared for.”
In Medway and Swale, patients have access to two Community Diagnostic Centres, with the other located at the Healthy Living Centre in Rochester. Since launching, the centres have delivered thousands of diagnostic tests, including CT scans at Sheppey, and ultrasound scans, and respiratory and cardiology services at Rochester.
Both sites are staffed by Medway NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Medway Maritime Hospital in Gillingham and the Frailty Unit at Sheppey Community Hospital. Work will continue to develop the centres throughout 2025, with the aim of providing services up to seven days a week, and 12 hours a day, according to demand.
Nick Sinclair, Chief Operating Officer, at Medway NHS Foundation Trust, said:
‘’This investment highlights our dedication to providing high-quality diagnostic services for the communities we serve. We want patients to receive the care they need without unnecessary delays or long-distance travel, and the launch of this scanner is a testament to our commitment to delivering better healthcare locally.
‘’Thanks to our dedicated NHS colleagues, who are at the heart of services our Community Diagnostic Centres provide. We expect the centres to have a significant impact in the months and years ahead.”
