The Regional Secretary for Health attended today the presentation of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) equipment that was installed in the new hospital of Terceira.

According to Miguel Correia, this equipment provides better conditions for hospitalised patients. Until now, RMI scans were performed at a private clinic where patients, accompanied by a health professional, had to go by ambulance.

This is a high-end equipment; there are only six of its kind in Portugal.
"Our purpose is to provide our patients with the best conditions and the best diagnostic equipments," stated Miguel Correia.

The MRI machine installed at the Santo Espírito Hospital represented an investment of about 740 thousand Euros, VAT excluded. However, this investment will have economic return as the hospital spent an average of 200 thousand Euros per year with these tests that were performed in the private sector.
 
According to the Secretary for Health, the Terceira hospital is properly equipped as all equipments in good operating conditions were transferred from the former hospital.

Naturally, it will be necessary to replace some of the equipment, but that is normal in any health facility. This replacement will take place when necessary and in accordance with the hospital needs.

"The acquisition of a transesophageal probe for echocardiograms and a new ophthalmic laser equipment will be the next priorities for Terceira hospital in terms of acquisitions," said Miguel Correia.

The MRI machine presented today is a nuclear magnetic resonance imaging equipment that produces images of the human body at various angles, allowing the visualisation of the organs and the possibility of seeing them functioning.

It is commonly used for the study of the brain and spine but has also proven to be effective in the study of the musculoskeletal system, blood vessels breast, heart and several organs.