New imaging equipment enhancing patient care

Patients and staff at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (OUH) are benefitting from two upgrades to diagnostic imaging services at the John Radcliffe Hospital.

A new MRI scanner and gamma camera have been installed as part of a wider programme to modernise radiology equipment at the John Radcliffe and Churchill hospitals.

These enhancements are already improving patient comfort, speeding up diagnosis, and helping clinical teams manage growing demand.

Delivered through a Managed Equipment Service partnership with Ergéa UK, the installations form part of a long-term collaboration supporting the Trust with equipment planning, installation and maintenance.

The new MRI scanner, which supports up to 600 patients each month, features advanced imaging technology that reduces scan times and improves image quality. This is especially important for patients undergoing neurological scans, where comfort and precision are key.

Cyrene Saga, Advanced Clinical Specialist MRI Radiographer at OUH, said: "Having this new MRI scanner significantly enhances patient comfort and advanced imaging techniques, which helps to reduce anxiety.

"It also increases scanning capacity and supports faster, more accurate diagnoses, enabling us to better manage waiting lists and deliver targeted treatments."

The new gamma camera is also based at the John Radcliffe Hospital.

Debbie Tolley, Radiology Clinical Unit Operations Manager at OUH, said: "This upgrade has transformed the John Radcliffe Hospital Nuclear Medicine service. The gamma camera includes CT capabilities that improve diagnostic accuracy – particularly valuable for oncology and paediatric patients, where timely and detailed imaging is essential."

The installation also included a refurbishment of the Nuclear Medicine Department, creating a more modern and welcoming environment for patients and staff.

The new equipment is part of a broader partnership between OUH and Ergéa UK, which began in 2021 with a focus on radiotherapy and now includes diagnostic imaging.

Under an agreement signed earlier this year, the Trust is replacing four key pieces of radiology equipment and upgrading associated clinical spaces all aimed at improving diagnostic services and future-proofing care.

In addition to the MRI and gamma camera, the programme will also include a new Neurology Bi-Plane Fluoroscopy at the West Wing at the John Radcliffe Hospital and a PET/CT scanner at the Churchill Hospital.

Felicity Taylor-Drewe, Chief Operating Officer at OUH, said: "These new imaging facilities are a fantastic step forward for our patients and staff. They not only improve the quality and speed of diagnosis but also help us create a more comfortable and efficient experience for everyone who uses our services.

"This ongoing project reflects our ongoing commitment to modern, high-quality care across our hospitals, and we are pleased to be working alongside Ergéa UK to help us deliver this."

Mike Leach, Account Director for Transformation Services at Ergéa UK, said: "This is more than just managing equipment – it’s about supporting NHS Trusts with flexible, vendor-neutral solutions so they can focus on what truly matters most: delivering the best possible care to patients."