Hertfordshire patients are set to benefit from a new semi-static Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanner that has been installed at Pinehill Hospital in Hitchin.

With MRI capacity at the hospital increasing, there will be greater diagnostic availability and shorter wait times for local patients - MRI provision at Pinehill will now run for six days per week.

The scans will be available for both NHS and private patients, who must all be referred via their GP.

Duncan Barton, director of the hospital, said: “I am absolutely delighted that Pinehill can now offer more MRI capacity for our local community.


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"We continue to invest in diagnostic services for the benefit of our local residents.”

MRI scans are used to produce detailed images of the inside of your body, and can be used to examine almost anywhere. The scans can help diagnose conditions, plan treatment, and assess the progress of treatment that has already taken place.

Peter Tasko and Simon Cook from Hitchin Rugby Club, Cllr Keith Hoskins, and Dr Simon Chatfield, clinical lead for cancer and planned care at Herts & West Essex Integrated Care Board, all attended the official opening of the new unit on Thursday, July 6.

The Comet: The new scanner was officially opened on Thursday, July 6.The new scanner was officially opened on Thursday, July 6. (Image: Pinehill Hospital)

Pinehill is a private hospital offering 37 beds, three theatres and an endoscopy unit minor procedure theatre.

They provide a range of elective surgery for both private and NHS patients within the local area and further afield.