Inpatients at Tamworth Rural Referral Hospital in need of an MRI can breathe a sigh of relief with Hunter New England Health’s new $2.5 million top-of-the-line machine now operational in the radiology department.

Having an MRI machine located in Tamworth Hospital means that clinicians and inpatients now have faster access to this higher-level diagnostic service when required, which ultimately leads to better outcomes.

Patients no longer have to travel to Newcastle or Sydney to receive imaging services, allowing them to stay in the region.

A specifically designed room for an MRI was included in the recently completed hospital redevelopment. Work took place to complete the fit out of this room with a purpose built shield and the equipment that is required for the safe operation of the new machine. 

The MRI would not have been possible without the support of Federal Member for New England Barnaby Joyce who was instrumental in obtaining a Medicare-funded MRI licence for the hospital.