A new machine is in service at the Radiology Department at Coatecoek Hospital

health. After having to work with a mobile device since last spring, medical imaging technologists at Coatekook Hospital have finally found a platform at the forefront of technology.

The new equipment, purchased by CIUSSS de l’Estrie – CHUS for $465,000, arrived at the health institution’s headquarters on rue Jean Mance in mid-August. “It completely changes the daily life of those working in this department,” says department head Josiane Tremblay. We must first remember that the system we had was secure and reliable. Unfortunately, he passed away at the beginning of the year. It was therefore necessary to act quickly to continue providing these services in Coaticook. »

In just one day, the administration obtained the so-called mobile device. “We can do the same thing as before,” Ms. Tremblay says. The only difference is that we were somewhat limited in the centers designated for the different exams. Unfortunately for our clients, we sometimes had to transport them to Sherbrooke or even Magog to allow us to obtain certain x-rays. This is a thing of the past. Everything can be done here, in Coaticook, as before. »

This news clearly pleased the medical imaging technician, Stephane Falardeau, assigned to the Coaticook site. Especially since the device was not scheduled to arrive before the beginning of 2024. “The team was eagerly waiting for it,” he says.

We understand his sense of humor, especially when we consider that between 7,500 and 8,000 x-rays are taken each year at Coatecoek. In fact, three out of every four patients who go to the emergency room use these services. Others come from the Frontières Family Medicine Group or at the request of a doctor who can practice almost anywhere in the province.

Installing the device did not require any new arrangements inside the x-ray room. “We were fortunate to have a lot of space,” Mr. Falardeau says.

People with limited mobility can access the new equipment because the table “can drop very low.” “We no longer have to look for small steps to help specific patients,” explains the technologist.

These health workers also praised the technological aspect. “We are gaining tremendous speed since X-rays appear on the computer in just three seconds. Previously, you had to wait between a minute and a minute and a half to see the result. We worked with a phosphor cassette development machine. There was a lot of manipulation. Often, We take more than one, so we save time with the new way of doing things. “This is very good news for patients,” concludes Stephane Falardeau.