The JW & M Cunningham Foundation is proud to support the purchase of a new 3T Siemens MRI Machine with a donation of $1.5 million.
At St Vincent’s, medical imaging is at the heart of almost every patient journey. From emergency stroke care to cancer treatment and complex neurological conditions, doctors rely on clear, accurate scans to guide critical decisions. Each year, more than 110,000 scans are performed across the hospital including the Emergency Department, making imaging one of our most important services.
Leading this work is A/Prof Yael Barnett, Director of Radiology and Head of MRI. A specialist in advanced brain imaging, she has helped establish Australia’s first MRI-guided focused ultrasound centre at St Vincent’s and has driven the integration of AI into imaging at the hospital, ensuring patients benefit from the most advanced diagnostic technology available.
To ensure fast and precise lifesaving care, St Vincent’s urgently needs to upgrade to the next generation of medical imaging technology. Our last upgrade, supported by generous donors, was in 2009. It is now time re-equip our hospital with the latest medical imaging technology to give our patients the best care services that thousands of patients depend on every year.
Faster, Clearer Results
Two new Siemens MRI machines will deliver sharper images and shorter scan times. This means doctors can detect problems earlier and start treatment sooner. For stroke patients, every minute counts. Clinicians will get clearer imaging to guide their treatment decisions for cancer patients and patients with neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s or multiple sclerosis will benefit from more precise monitoring and future care planning.
Improved Patient Experiences
Shorter scans make a big difference for patients who are frail, anxious or uncomfortable and cannot stay still for long. Fewer repeat scans mean less stress for patients and their families, and smoother flow through emergency and inpatient services with shorter wait times. The new imaging will also help St Vincent’s run nearly 500 clinical trials each year, giving patients access to the latest treatments and medical advances.
Anna McFadgen, CEO of St Vincent’s Health Network Sydney, shared the importance of the upgrade: “No technology can replace the skill or compassion of our clinicians. But these innovations will ensure patients get the care they need, when they need it most, increase our imaging accuracy and capacity and improve patient flow.”
