New CT Scanner Installed at QEH to Enhance Emergency Care Delivery

The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) has commissioned a new GE Revolution Maxima 128-slice CT scanner in its Accident & Emergency (A&E) Department. The addition of this advanced imaging system, made possible through a $1.7 million donation from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, represents a significant upgrade in the hospital’s diagnostic capabilities and emergency care delivery.

The scanner has been operational since February and has already facilitated over 500 emergency scans. Its installation within the A&E Department is to help eliminate the need for patient transfers to the hospital’s Diagnostics Department, reducing wait times and expediting care for stroke victims, trauma cases, and pediatric emergencies.

“Previously, patients required transfers across the hospital for imaging, which could delay diagnosis and treatment,” said QEH Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Neil Clark. “Now, with the scanner located directly in A&E, we can provide faster, more efficient care at critical moments.”

Minister of Health and Wellness, Senator Dr. The Honourable Jerome Walcott, described the donation as a major step forward in modernizing the nation’s healthcare infrastructure. “This new scanner doubles the hospital’s CT scanning capacity and enhances our ability to deliver timely diagnoses—especially for patients presenting with acute neurological or traumatic conditions.”

The GE Revolution Maxima is equipped with advanced imaging technology that reduces radiation exposure, making it particularly suitable for children and patients requiring head scans. The installation supports QEH’s broader modernization efforts, which include the introduction of a linear accelerator for cancer radiotherapy and plans to acquire the hospital’s first MRI machine.

Representatives of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints reaffirmed their commitment to supporting health initiatives in Barbados. Speaking at the official handover, Sister Sally-Ann Wiggins emphasized the importance of strengthening public healthcare systems, stating, “We are committed to supporting a healthier, more dignified future.” Elder Claude Gamiette added, “We hope this scanner brings not just healing, but also a message of hope and care.”

The Queen Elizabeth Hospital expresses its sincere gratitude to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for its generous support. This partnership underscores the positive impact that community collaboration can have on public health outcomes.