Sussex hospital doubles MRI capacity with arrival of four tonne scanner

A Sussex hospital has doubled its MRI capacity with the arrival of a four-tonne scanner.

The machine has been installed at Southlands Hospital, in Shoreham, at the site’s Community Diagnostic Centre, and will be ready for patients in early May.

It uses advanced software to reduce scan times and improve image quality for procedures including cancer staging.

The centre’s MRI service operates seven days a week from 8am to 8pm for patients aged five and older.

The scanner being installed at Southlands Hospital (Image: University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust)

Hospital officials have said the expansion will allow people to schedule appointments more flexibly and avoid travelling to busier acute hospitals.

The increased capacity has also prompted a recruitment drive for radiographers and imaging support workers.

A spokesperson for University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust said: “We know that diagnosing and treating patients quickly has a huge impact on health outcomes and quality of life.

“That’s why investing in our diagnostic services remains a priority and why we’re proud to be delivering this for our community.”

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The Community Diagnostic Centre first opened in October 2023 and features “world-class” CT and MRI scanners and three “cutting-edge” X-ray rooms.

Phase two of the centre was completed in November 2024, adding ultrasound, echocardiography, respiratory and gynaecological services to create a broader “one-stop” diagnostic hub.

The centre was previously highlighted by East Worthing and Shoreham MP Tom Rutland earlier this year for its role in helping to improve access to timely diagnostics for patients in the area.

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