Trust unveils new radiology facilities featuring cutting-edge diagnostic equipment at West Berkshire Community Hospital

The Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust has opened its newly expanded radiology facilities at West Berkshire Community Hospital, which feature advanced diagnostic technologies including a Mammography Unit, DEXA scanner and two new Ultrasound suites. The addition of these new facilities will enable faster diagnosis for a variety of conditions, including breast cancers and osteoporosis.

This major new  upgrade has been made possible by significant financial investment from the Community Diagnostic CDC Programme NHS England, West Berkshire Community Hospital League of Friends, and a local Charity.

These state-of-the-art diagnostic scanners use the latest technology in order to perform a range of imaging techniques with far accurate and faster diagnosis, meaning we are able to see more patients.

The new radiology equipment includes:

·        Mammography: A tool used for breast imaging to detect early diagnosis of breast cancer.

·        Bone density DEXA scanner: A precise scanner with the ability to measure bone density, helping to detect osteoporosis and other bone-related conditions.

·        Ultra sound scanner: A non-invasive imaging tool helping to detect a variety of conditions.

Helen Atkins, Lead Radiographer at West Berkshire Community Hospital said ‘These new facilities are absolutely fantastic. Alongside our existing imaging  facilities, these state-of-the-art scanners will allow us to image more patients closer to home. Not only are these facilities lovely to work in, but they also much more comfortable for our patients.’

Dom Hardy, Chief Operating Officer said ‘It’s very exciting to see the new radiology facilities in action. This upgrade will not only improve the care to our patients but will also mean we are able to offer more services locally in West Berkshire. We must give a huge thank you to the two charities (League of Friends and a local charity) and the Community Diagnostic CDC Programme NHS England for making this a reality with a significant financial investment.’