As part of our long-standing MES partnership with University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, we are proud and delighted to have facilitated the installation of a new state-of-the-art MRI scanner at Leicester General Hospital, marking a major milestone in modern diagnostic care for patients across Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland.
Delivered through the MES framework, the new MRI scanner is expected to deliver around 6,500 MRI scans annually, providing clinicians with high-resolution images that support accurate diagnoses and improved patient outcomes.
The official unveiling was led by Ashwin Prajapati, whose late son Punit worked as a senior CT and MRI radiographer at UHL before passing away from bone cancer in 2020 at the age of 31.
The Canon Vantage Galan 3T / Supreme Edition MRI will help UHL meet growing demand for advanced imaging, delivering scans for inpatient, outpatient, and routine referrals. While the system is designed primarily for exceptional image quality rather than reduced scan times, its enhanced performance enables clinicians to see more patients requiring specialist imaging more quickly.
Today’s official opening marks an important milestone in the modernisation of our MRI facilities at UHL, which will help build capacity to meet the increase in demand we are seeing for diagnostic imaging across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. Stories like Punit’s show how vital it is to support patients in receiving prompt, accurate diagnoses.
By replacing an ageing 1.5T system, we are able to provide 3T-level imaging across all three of our main hospital sites. This means patients can be seen closer to home, examinations can be scheduled more flexibly, and we can prioritise those who need specialist 3T imaging, such as prostate and neurological scans. This investment is an important step in our wider plans to expand diagnostic capacity and improve patient experience.”
Suzanne Nancarrow, Deputy Chief Operating Officer at UHL
The installation was a collaborative effort between key partners including Canon Medical Systems UK, Pop Design & Projects, M&O Building Contractors Ltd and Envirotect Ltd, who ensured a seamless fit and finish despite the constraints of the challenging space.
We are incredibly proud to see the Canon Vantage Galan 3T / Supreme Edition MRI officially unveiled at Leicester General Hospital. Through our MES partnership with the Trust, Ergéa has provided UHL with direct access to the world’s most advanced imaging technology. This has given the clinical team high-specification tools required to deliver faster, more precise, and truly future-proofed care for the local community.”
Rob Madge, Implementation Manager at Ergéa UK
This significant investment demonstrates Ergéa and UHL’s shared commitment to improving diagnostic services, enhancing patient experience, and supporting high-quality care across Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland.
We extend our thanks to all stakeholders involved, demonstrating how collaboration can positively impact patient care and strengthen local healthcare services.