JERSEY SHORE — Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital installed a new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) unit as part of a multi-phase upgrade to its Radiology Department.

The installation of the new MRI equipment brings this noninvasive, diagnostic tool closer to home for patients in Jersey Shore who need high-quality images of the brain, spinal cord, nerves, muscles, ligaments and tendons.

The multi-phase project of the Radiology Department involves upgrading nearly every piece of equipment, relocating rooms, moving walls for expansion, and coordinating several logistics to avoid interrupting services.

“In addition to this upgrade of equipment, we utilize our systemwide virtual cockpit team to offer advanced diagnostic scans closer to home. The on-site technologists work in tandem with an off-site advanced MRI technologist in the virtual cockpit. Utilizing various technologies, the off-site technologists manipulate the scanner remotely to perform these more involved scans,” said Aalpen Patel, MD, chair of Geisinger Radiology.

Radiology upgrades are taking place throughout many of Geisinger’s radiology locations to increase satisfaction, consistency, and quality.

“This massive project is part of a systemwide initiative so that technologists, radiologists and providers can view images of the same likeness and quality,” said Jill Martin, manager of radiology operations. “We now have the same software, protocols and views as other Geisinger locations for the most consistent and optimal images available.”

Additionally at GJSH, upgrades to the diagnostic x-ray section were completed in 2021 and included a new portable x-ray machine, which is used throughout the hospital, including in the emergency room, operating rooms and inpatient areas.

The next phase of the GJSH Radiology upgrade is the installation of a CT scanner, which is scheduled for completion later this year.