Estevan, Sask., hospital home to new CT scanner

People needing a CT scan in southeastern Saskatchewan may not have to travel as far from now on.

The Ministry of Health unveiled the province's 14th CT scanner at the St. Joseph's Hospital of Estevan on Monday.

"Providing this service locally means less travel time and expense for patients, and quicker access to medical diagnosis and treatment," Health Minister Dustin Duncan said in a release.

CT scanners are computerized x-ray systems that create 3D images of inside of the body. They are used to diagnose cancer, spinal problems and injuries.

The cost of bringing in the new service was $2.2 million, all raised by the St. Joseph's Hospital Foundation. An additional $375,000 was provided by the provincial government to help with operating costs in its first year.

The machine will require about $1 million per year to operate, provided by the province.

The Ministry said the machine was brought in to help meet the demands of a growing population in the area and lessen the demand placed on other machines in the province.

Estevan is the ninth city to get a CT scanner in the province, joining Lloydminster, Moose Jaw, North Battleford, Prince Albert, Swift Current, Yorkton, Saskatoon and Regina.