ESTEVAN — St. Joseph's Hospital in Estevan is pleased to announce that the much-anticipated MRI project is officially moving forward.
In a news release, the hospital said that after months of planning and fundraising, this project aims to enhance diagnostic capabilities, improve access to MRI services, and improve patient care within southeastern Saskatchewan.
On April 2, the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation board of directors approved the purchase agreements for the new MRI system and the construction project. Purchase orders were issued April 3 to Siemens Healthcare Canada for the MRI system and to SDI Canada for the modular MRI cassette room and construction project.
“Although we still have more fundraising to accomplish in order for us to reach our fundraising target of $6.5 million dollars, we are confident that the people and communities of southeastern Saskatchewan will continue to support this MRI project, which will bring care closer to home for our residents,” said hospital foundation executive director Lori Gervais.
The new MRI machine will provide advanced imaging technology, enabling medical professionals to diagnose a wide range of conditions more efficiently and accurately. The installation and integration of this state-of-the-art equipment is expected to significantly reduce wait times for patients, reduce the burden of travelling for MRI services, and increase access to critical imaging services in the region.
“We are thrilled to take this important step forward in bringing cutting-edge medical technology to our community,” said hospital executive director Candace Kopec. “The new MRI machine will allow us to provide even better care for our patients and help improve health outcomes. This is a key investment in both our medical infrastructure and the well-being of those we serve.”
The MRI project is set to kick off with construction design planning in May 2025, with the goal of being fully operational by May/June 2026. The St. Joseph’s Hospital MRI project is being funded through a partnership between the community and the Government of Saskatchewan.
Local fundraising will cover 100 per cent of the capital costs for the MRI system and construction, while the Government of Saskatchewan has committed to funding 100 per cent of the ongoing operational costs to run this new MRI program. To date, the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation has raised $5.225 million toward the $6.5 million capital goal.
The support of surrounding communities, rural municipalities, local businesses, community members, and donors has been crucial in making this project a reality.
Included in the total is the $2 million that Elaine Walkom contributed in memory of her late husband Grant to bring MRI services to Estevan.
St. Joseph’s Hospital continues to prioritize improving healthcare services and infrastructure to meet the growing needs of the community. The introduction of the MRI machine is just one part of a broader initiative to enhance medical services and provide patients with the most advanced care possible.
More to come.
