Santa Claus making very special delivery to Salisbury District Hospital
The visit is happening this morning (Sunday 20th December)
Last updated 20th Dec 2020
The new MRI scanner at Salisbury District Hospital has arrived today (Sunday 20th December) by a very special courier.
Santa Claus has swapped his sleigh for a crane and brought the new piece of tech all wrapped in bows.
The scanner was lifted through the roof and down into the new MRI suite that has been created at the hospital.
Andy Hyett, Chief Operating Officer for the Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust said:
“At the end of an extremely challenging year, this is something really positive for the hospital and our patients so it felt only right to deliver this in an extra special way - we’re very grateful Father Christmas was able to help despite his busy schedule!”
It comes over and a year and a half after the Stars Appeal achieved their £1.5m fundraising target with a huge appeal.
In October, construction began on the new site which is where the Old Library used to be.
The new suite and machine are due to be operational early next year.
After that work's completed, the existing MRI unit will get a new state-of-the-art machine, to replace one that's coming to the end of its working life.
WHY DO WE NEED TWO MRI SCANNERS AT SALISBURY?
A second scanner for Salisbury District Hospital would mean patients won't have to travel to other hospitals or use a mobile unit.
The technology could also improve diagnoses, for departments right across the site, including cardiac and prostate patients.
Meanwhile, waiting times may also be reduced as a result.
In October, Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust Chief Executive, Stacey Hunter said:
"This upgraded technology will help to improve patient diagnosis and care and I'd like to thank the Stars Appeal for funding the suite and the second scanner. I would also like to thank our Library, Estates and Portering teams for their hard work in relocating our healthcare library and preparing the space for the builders."