New MRI service opens at Lithgow Hospital

Lithgow resident Elaine is the first patient to use the new MRI facility at Lithgow Hospital 

The $4 million project provides an incredible boost to medical imaging services at the hospital, enhancing patient outcomes and improving access to high-quality care for many local residents.

It was a day of firsts as local Lithgow resident Elaine, who among being the first patient of the new service, was also undergoing her first MRI scan.

“I had such a hassle-free experience. It was very quick with no dramas. The staff were wonderful,” says Elaine.

“It’s great to have something local. I live in Lithgow and it really cuts down on the travel time otherwise I would have had to head down to Penrith to receive the same type of scan.”

Chief Radiographer at Lithgow Hospital, Michelle Bostock says staff have been preparing for the opening the last 12 months and it was rewarding to start treating patients at the new facility.

“This is a fantastic day for the Lithgow and Blue Mountains communities. It is hoped the new service will reduce travel and wait times for our patients,” says Michelle.

“The MRI technology enables us to support timely diagnosis of patients by taking highly detailed images of organs and tissues in the human body to identify any issues of concern.”

The new MRI service is located on the southern side of the hospital, conveniently near the Medical Imaging Unit and other clinical services at Lithgow Hospital.

Patients wanting access to the new MRI service will require a referral from a GP or specialist.