Mobile MRI brings diagnostic care closer to northern Manitobans

Northern Manitobans needing an MRI can now get the care they need closer to home, as a mobile unit begins serving patients in The Pas.

The province made the announcement Tuesday, saying the mobile unit in The Pas is on a recurring rotation and supports northern residents with direct access to diagnostic imaging, while keeping patients close to their families, support systems and home communities.

"This is an exciting milestone for The Pas and another important step forward in making health care more accessible across northern Manitoba," said Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara. "With the mobile MRI now serving patients in The Pas, more northern families can access advanced diagnostic care closer to home. We’re proud to build services that meet people where they are and strengthen health care across the north."

More than 3,000 scans completed

The mobile unit has completed more than 3,000 diagnostic scans since launching its operations on June 6 in Thompson. The unit has helped reduce travel time for patients living up north, with most people accessing it from Thompson, Flin Flon, The Pas, Split Lake, Cross Lake and Gillam.

MRI unit arrives in The Pas

Following its planned schedule, the unit arrived at St. Anthony’s General Hospital in The Pas and began serving patients on Aug. 24.

RELATED STORIES:

• Manitobans get less invasive option for brain surgery with new Gamma Knife 
• Portage Place to undergo $500-million redevelopment, bringing health services and affordable housing downtown
• New Dynacare site improves access to testing for Interlake 

Moving forward, the mobile MRI will travel between the two communities, helping to strengthen health care in the community. 

"Seeing our first patients walk through the doors for MRI scans at St. Anthony’s General Hospital is deeply rewarding," said Dr. AbdulRazaq Sokoro, chief operating officer, Shared Health Diagnostic Services. "This rotation ensures patients in northern communities have easier, more equitable access to vital diagnostic imaging without the burden of long-distance travel."

Referrals required

All MRI scans require a referral from a licensed health-care provider. Patients who need diagnostic imaging are encouraged to speak with their health-care provider about the mobile MRI service.