Children’s & Women’s Hospital enhances imaging services with new high-tech MRI
With faster scan times, advanced imaging capabilities, and an environment designed to help patients feel more at ease, the new MRI is a significant investment in both technology and patient-centered care.
By Jessica Jones & Milena Mata
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With $2.7 million in combined funding to support technology enhancements, Children’s & Women’s Hospital has expanded its imaging capabilities, adding a new MRI system that brings the latest in magnetic resonance imaging to patients of all ages.
The state-of-the-art machine complements the hospital’s existing MRI unit and provides increased access to high-quality imaging. With faster scan times, advanced imaging capabilities, and an environment designed to help patients feel more at ease, the new MRI is a significant investment in technology and patient-centered care.
“We’re excited to add this new MRI system to our imaging suite,” said Eduardo Rel, director of radiology and imaging services at Children’s & Women’s Hospital. “It represents our ongoing commitment to innovation and our mission to provide exceptional care in a setting that supports comfort and healing.”
Funded through a Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) congressional directed grant for $1.5 million, the new Philips Ingenia Ambition X system introduces advanced diagnostic features along with a unique ambient experience suite. Patients can choose calm lighting and watch soothing videos during their scans, helping to reduce anxiety and limit movement. The grant funded 98% of the total cost for the MRI machine.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) releases energy to create a picture of the inside of the body. At Children’s & Women’s Hospital, MRIs are ordered to help evaluate and diagnose numerous conditions including broken bones. The new MRI machine is being used for a full range of imaging needs and is already helping providers deliver fast, accurate results to support timely diagnoses and care planning.
In addition to the new MRI machine, the University of South Alabama Foundation donated $1.2 million to USA Health for the construction of renovations to the original MRI suite to enhance the experience for both patients and staff. Planned updates include a modern design, improved aesthetics such as a curved floor layout, and a vibrant ceiling mural featuring the hospital’s aquatic theme — all elements intended to foster a welcoming and peaceful environment.
The arrival of the new MRI further supports USA Health’s role as the region’s only academic health system, blending leading-edge technology with compassionate care to serve the unique needs of children and women throughout the Gulf Coast.
For more information about the USA Health Department of Radiology, visit usahealthsystem.com.
*The contents of this news release are those of USA Health and not an endorsement of HRSA and HHS.
