New CT scanner now serving patients at Charlotte County Hospital

(ST. STEPHEN) – Patients and families in Charlotte County now have access to enhanced diagnostic care with the launch of a new state-of-the-art CT scanner at Horizon’s Charlotte County Hospital.

The addition of CT scanning services at the facility was made possible thanks to the generosity of donors and the dedication of the Charlotte County Hospital Foundation, which raised more than $700,000 during its 2022 radiothon to fund the new scanner.

“We are extremely pleased to have been able to complete this collaborative project to bring the latest imaging technology to Charlotte County Hospital,” said Steven Backman, President of the Charlotte County Hospital Foundation. “This represents a significant milestone in the development and expansion of services for the people of our region. Our community-led goal brings widespread benefits to all.”

“I am delighted to be here today as we celebrate the launch of this new CT scanner which is an important milestone in our commitment to providing patients with high-quality, timely care close to home in Charlotte County,” said Margaret Melanson, Horizon’s President and CEO. “This investment reflects Horizon’s dedication to improving access to essential health care services and enhancing diagnostic capabilities, ensuring that our efforts are truly patient-centred.”

“The new CT scanner at Charlotte County Hospital is a game-changer for patients in this community and across Horizon,” said Celina Bountalas, Director of Medical Imaging for the Saint John Area. “Each year, more than 4,200 patients have had to travel over an hour to Saint John for a CT scan—creating potential barriers to timely care and placing strain on both patients and the healthcare system. By reducing the need for travel, we’re not only improving patient experience but also reducing delays in care, leading to faster diagnoses and treatment.”

CT scans use a series of X-ray images taken from multiple angles to create detailed, cross-sectional views of bones, organs, and soft tissues. They provide significantly more detail than standard X-rays, helping health care teams diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. A CT scan can be used to examine nearly every part of the body.

– 30 –