MOBILE MRI and CT scanners at the Alexandra Hospital are set to remain for a further six months thanks to government funding.

In January this year, a mobile MRI scanner was delivered to the Alex to help clear the Covid backlog followed by a mobile CT scanner a month later.

The scanners are part of the government’s £350 million investment across the country to provide earlier scans and diagnoses to reduce waiting lists which have increased as a result of the pandemic.

Following additional government funding, Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust has confirmed that the mobile scanners will remain in place for a further six months to tackle the backlogs.

MP for Redditch, Rachel Maclean said: "I’m pleased the government has provided further funding to ensure my constituents can receive their scans and diagnoses much more quickly.

“The mobile scanners at the Alex, in addition to the permanent MRI and CT scanners at the hospital, have already provided thousands of patients with faster access to diagnostic tests and earlier diagnoses.

“This further funding is yet another sign of the vital role the Alex plays in the delivery of healthcare in Worcestershire.

“The Alex has a bright future ahead of it and our hospital will continue to benefit from investment.”

Paul Brennan, chief operating officer at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, said: “This is an important part of our work to improve access for our patients to a range of important procedures which are an essential part of the early diagnosis and timely treatment of some potentially serious conditions, including many forms of cancer.

“It will help increase capacity to meet the current demand and give every patient the care and support they need.”

Both scanners are in addition to the permanent MRI and CT scanners already in place at the hospital.