Local MRI scanner has saved nearly £300k on travel costs so far, estimates suggest
IT IS estimated that nearly £300,000 has been saved in travel costs so far by having an MRI scanner located in Shetland.
Before the MRI scanner was installed at the Gilbert Bain Hospital in Lerwick in June last year, patients needing the service had to travel to the Scottish mainland.
Shetland News asked NHS Shetland how much money has been saved by the health board as a result – with the estimates coming back at just under £300,000.
“From historical data, based on a three-year average prior to establishing a local service, there were approximately 550 patients travelling each year from Shetland to Grampian, for MRI scan appointments,” finance director Colin Marsland said. “This equates to roughly £290,000.
“MRI diagnostics are used to diagnose and monitor a wide variety of conditions.
“We are delighted that by having a local MRI service we are able to support a number of individuals and their families on island, which we hope has relieved some of the additional pressures, worries and logistical problems of travelling for an MRI scan appointment.”
Although there are significant reduced travel costs to the health board, there will be operating costs associated with the scanner, including staffing.
Local and international fundraising from individuals and businesses generated £2 million, with Scottish Government committing up to £1.6 million in financial capital support.
Local MSP Beatrice Wishart welcomed the savings on travel, adding that having a scanner based in Shetland has saved patients the “hassle and anxiety” of going south for a short appointment.
“It has allowed money previously used for patient travel to be utilised elsewhere in the local NHS budget,” she added.
“It would be good to see more procedures, where practicable, become available in the isles to save money and time in travel, not to mention the hassle patients can experience in getting to and from Aberdeen. In some cases more local treatment may even save lives.”
MRI – magnetic resonance imaging – scanners produce detailed images of the inside of the body, which can be used to help diagnose conditions and plan treatments.
Having one in Lerwick complements the existing CT scanner, which uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed images of the inside of the body.
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