EUROPEAN SCANNING CENTRE
OPEN MRI SERVICE... ...for patients during COVID crisis European Scanning Centre remain open, available and COVID secure
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ith the United Kingdom still adjusting to a ‘new normal’ during the coronavirus pandemic, there is a risk that many might avoid going to the doctor or seeing a specialist if they have a health concern. Medical investigations remain a valid reason for travel. If you have a health concern, don’t delay your medical care; there are still people here to help, including European Scanning Centre Cardiff. The European Scanning Centre (ESC) is a diagnostic imaging centre, with sites in London and Manchester. They offer a wide range of diagnostic imaging services and pride themselves on their relaxed and patient friendly environment.
The centre in Cardiff Gate Business Park, which contains the only Open and Upright MRI Scanner in Wales, has been carefully designed with patient’s comfort in mind. Like many businesses, they have adapted their service to the current climate, ensuring they can safely continue to operate and scan patients who need an MRI prior to medical treatment. Melanie Jones, radiographer and Centre Manager at ESC Cardiff, has worked with MRI for over 30 years and has witnessed how MRI imaging is being used more frequently in the diagnosis of conditions, treatment plans and assessment of how effective treatment has been. There are many reasons why patients are unable to use a conventional ‘tunnel’ scanner – it may be because they are claustrophobic, bariatric or have a physical difficulty. European Scanning Centre’s unique Paramed system is completely open above, behind and in-front of the patient, creating a less intimidating environment and allowing full upright, weight-bearing imaging of the major joints and spine.
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Patients are able to communicate with the radiographer throughout the examination with the use of an intercom, and the special ‘U’ shape of the machine allows radiographers to see the patient at all times. Patients are also given the option of watching TV or listening to their favourite radio station during the scan - a relaxed and comfortable patient allows more accurate imaging, which in turn leads to a more clinically relevant result. The team at European Scanning Centre are happy discuss how the scanner works and what can be expected on the day of the appointment; and all staff are prepared to deal with any queries or concerns patients may have. Melanie is always on hand to reassure patients. “The health and safety of our patients, colleagues and the public is always our highest priority. There is no
