Just as smartphones are producing sharper pictures with better cameras and faster processing, the images created by Holland Hospital’s new MRI technology are transforming patient care.
The hospital recently introduced the SIGNA Premier 3T MRI system, which offers faster scans and improved patient comfort. The announcement came during National Radiologic Technology Week, which was Nov. 3-9.
This advanced system cuts scan times nearly in half, allowing more patients to access critical imaging services without long waits.
“The MRI technology itself hasn’t changed drastically, but the software that processes images has improved,” says Steve Sorenson, assistant vice president of clinical services at Holland Hospital.
“It’s like what we see in smartphone cameras. They’ve evolved to capture sharper, clearer images, and our new MRI system gives us similar advancements. It provides high-quality images for better diagnostics.”
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Courtesy Holland HospitalThe upgraded MRI is part of Holland Hospital’s commitment to improving care. It includes AIR Recon DL, an AI-based tool that delivers detailed images faster than older systems.
More comfortable for patients
The upgraded MRI is part of the hospital’s commitment to improving care. It includes AIR Recon DL, an AI-based tool that delivers detailed images faster than older systems.
The wide-bore design offers patients more room inside, helping ease feelings of claustrophobia. A feet-first scanning option also keeps heads outside the machine for many types of scans, reducing anxiety.
“This upgrade is more than a simple improvement,” Sorenson says. “It’s like taking an old home down to the studs and rebuilding it. For patients, it means an entirely new experience with advanced imaging and comfort features.”
In addition to sharper scans, the new MRI provides entertainment options for patients, allowing them to listen to audio through headphones during scans.
“This is more than a luxury,” Sorenson says. “It helps patients relax and stay still, which is critical for clear imaging.”
Movement during scans can blur images, but the new MRI uses movement-canceling technology, similar to what stabilizes video on smartphones. This reduces the need for repeated scans, which saves time and reduces patient stress.
The hospital’s new MRI also features blanket-like coils instead of traditional hard plastic frames. These soft coils wrap comfortably around the body.
“The blanket coils are a major upgrade in comfort,” Sorenson explains. “Instead of adjusting hard coils around the patient’s body, our staff can use these soft, flexible blankets, making the scan smoother and more comfortable.”
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Courtesy Holland HospitalHolland Hospital is among the first facilities in Michigan to use MRI technology that improves patient comfort and reduces scan times by a third while producing higher-quality imaging.
Increased speed means time for more patients
A big benefit of the new system is shorter scan times. What used to take 45 minutes is now under 30 minutes.
“With quicker scans, we can serve more patients in a day,” says Sorenson. “This helps reduce wait times and makes it easier for patients to get the imaging they need.”
Reducing the radiology backlog has also been a priority for Holland Hospital. Working with Advanced Radiology Services in Grand Rapids, the hospital has hired more radiologists and partnered with a temporary radiology group for additional support.
These efforts have reduced read times, with most exams reviewed in one or two days and nearly all completed within five days.
“Quick read times are essential for patient care,” Sorenson says. “These advancements mean we can provide efficient, high-quality imaging without delays.”
The upgraded MRI system also includes advanced software that allows for 3D imaging, giving physicians detailed views of organs from multiple angles.
“Physicians can rotate 3D images to examine different parts,” Sorenson explains. “If they want to see the back of the heart, they can simply rotate the image. This detail can be a game-changer for diagnosis and treatment.”
Holland Hospital’s radiology services are available in Holland, Zeeland, and Saugatuck, and will be at a new center planned for Hudsonville in 2025.
“Our scheduling and improved technology let patients get the exams they need without delay,” says Joe Bonello, vice president of nursing operations and chief nursing officer. “These advancements reinforce our commitment to providing exceptional health care to the Lakeshore community.”