While Langley is one of the fastest-growing communities in the region, with a senior population that’s also on the rise, it’s also one of the few Fraser Health communities without an MRI.
Thanks to a Langley Memorial Hospital Foundation campaign, a partnership with Fraser Health and the generosity of local residents and businesses, that’s about to change.
Part of the Foundation’s $15-million Emergency Response Campaign to fund a new emergency department, the $4-million MRI component will welcome its first patients next year with 7,500 exams expected within the first 12 months!
Why we need an MRI
- The gold standard in diagnostics: The new diagnostic suite will provide physicians the ‘gold standard’ tool to help diagnose diseases and medical conditions. In addition to complementing CT scans, offering a better look at certain conditions, such as brain cancer, an MRI is the ONLY diagnostic tool used in cases such as spinal cord issues, multiple sclerosis and soft tissue injury, explains Dr. Xing Wong, the hospital’s head of medical imaging. As technology evolves, radiologists are also using MRIs for a more thorough look at diseases such as breast and prostate cancers.
- Reduced wait times: Current delays of 18 months or more for semi-urgent and non-urgent scans mean delays in timely diagnosis, monitoring and treatment. With the standard of care to access an MRI between three and six months, the new MRI Suite is expected to bring that current 18-month wait in line with those expectations.
- Improved patient care: “The travel time, congestion and parking issues at the bigger centres all make it very difficult for Langley patients,” says Dr. Wong. Even patients already admitted to Langley Memorial have the added stress of being transported to Peace Arch Hospital when an MRI is required, creating logistical issues for booking, transportation and care. “All of these things impact patient care.”
- Improved physician recruiting: Access to the latest diagnostic tools goes a long way to attracting top talent to the hospital and community, not only for radiologists and specialists requiring MRI technology for their work, but also general practitioners who want easier access for patient diagnostics, notes Dr. Wong.
Community support is well on its way!
With fundraising currently sitting at $8.6 million of the goal, support has come from across the community, from Langley Memorial Hospital Auxiliary’s $1.5 million – the largest gift in its 71-year history! – to $100,000 from BM Group owners Balraj and Jasbir Mann. “We’re honoured to name the Sub-Acute Treatment Zone Patient Discharge Lounge in their honour when the new Emergency Department opens in 2020,” says the Foundation’s Executive Director, Vivian Smith.
How you can get involved
Special events are another great way to support the campaign for a new ER and MRI Suite. On Sept. 22, the Township of Langley Firefighters’ Charitable Society and Township of Langley Mayor’s Office host the Mayor’s Charity Gala in 2018, with proceeds benefiting the Charitable Society and the ER campaign.
You can also donate directly to the Langley Memorial Hospital Foundation campaign. Visit LangleyER.com, call 604-533-6422 or email info@lmhfoundation.com.
“I really want to thank the generous donors and the foundation. We’re so grateful to be part of this community and the new MRI will really allow us to provide better patient care,” Dr. Wong reflects.
