P.E.I. long-term care residents will soon be able to receive some X-rays in comfort of home

A doctor looks at an x-ray (utah778 / IStock.com)

A new service in Prince Edward Island will make it easier for Islanders living in long-term care homes to receive certain X-rays.

A new mobile service, currently offering chest X-rays, is being rolled out to all the public and private long-term care homes and is expected to be fully available across P.E.I. by next month.

“Providing mobile X-ray services in long-term care homes will improve patient outcomes by delivering care directly to residents, ensuring they receive the right care at the right time while also reducing pressure on our hospital system,” said Minister of Health and Wellness Mark McLane in a news release.

“This initiative allows residents to receive high-quality diagnostic imaging in a familiar and comfortable environment, improving both care efficiency and quality of life.”

The provincial government says the program’s first mobile X-ray was successfully completed last month at Whisperwood Villa.

“From start to finish, the entire process was well organized and executed. The technologists were professional, prepared, and accommodating, completing the appointment smoothly within the privacy of the resident’s room,” said director of care at Whisperwood Villa, Samantha Gaudet.

“We were impressed by the mobile X-ray machine – its compact design and versatility made it easy to use in a variety of resident settings. The setup was quick and efficient, and the technologists took the time to explain the process to the resident beforehand, welcoming any questions from both the resident and staff.”

The program, a collaboration between Health PEI and the Government of Prince Edward Island, was designed to minimize hospital transfers, improve resident comfort, decrease stress and ensure timely access to diagnostic imaging.

Last year, Island EMS completed more than 1,000 transfers for diagnostic imaging.

“This is great for both the health care system and for residents,” said Melanie Fraser, CEO of Health PEI.

“Any time we can avoid sending someone to the hospital, the entire system benefits. More importantly, if someone needs this service, they’re already not feeling well. By allowing them to stay in their home, we can make sure they’re in the most comfortable environment possible.”

The mobile X-ray service is performed by trained medical radiation technologists using portable equipment that meets the quality standards for imaging.

The province says additional types of X-rays will be offered as part of the program in the coming months.

“While some hospital transfers may be avoided, some residents will still need to go to hospital for an X-ray. Decisions on eligibility for transfer will be based on the health care team’s assessment, urgency, the resident’s care preferences and health status,” reads a provincial news release.

For more P.E.I. news, visit our dedicated provincial page.