New technology reduces scan time and improves patient experience
Yarmouth, Mass. March 18, 2021 – Shields Health Care Group announces the arrival of a brand-new MRI machine in Yarmouth. The MRI machine, a GE 3T, is an exciting addition to the MRI facility that is part of a joint-venture between Shields and Cape Cod Healthcare. This is the first of its kind in the region after Shields MRI first introduced Artificial Intelligence technology in Framingham, where it was the first in the world made available to patients.
The 19,000-pound machine arrived at the Shields MRI Yarmouth location on March 18th for installation. The state-of-the-art 3T GE Signa Pioneer is a 70-centimeter open-bore MRI that features unique artificial intelligence technology. Artificial intelligence technology has shown that it can decrease the MRI scan time as much as 35 percent while simultaneously improving the quality of the image. This can improve overall patient experience as they receive a faster, more comfortable MRI scan with highest quality outcomes. The machine’s generous 70-centimeter opening can comfortably accommodate patients up to 500 pounds and allow for a spacious experience for patients with claustrophobia.
The strength of the MRI magnet is 3 teslas, more commonly referred to as “3T” and is the highest strength in clinical use. This allows for detailed images that are ideal for neurological scans as well as small bones and joints. This is the second 3T machine on Cape Cod through Shields and Cape Cod Healthcare, but the first that utilizes AI.
“We are very excited to bring this innovative technology to Cape Cod,” says Peter Ferrari, President of Shields Health Care Group. “Patient experience is a priority at Shields and this highly-advanced MRI can improve that. We saw how much this innovative technology helped our patients across the network so we chose to expand care to Cape Cod, thanks to our strong partnership with Cape Cod Healthcare.”
This new MRI is a welcome addition to the Yarmouth center and will complement the existing 70-cm open-bore MRI available to patients in a 1.5T strength. Shields MRI at Cape Cod MRI/CT-Yarmouth is located just off of Route 28 at 2 Iyannough Road, West Yarmouth.