St. Croix MRI/CT, a new medical imaging facility offering state-of-the-art magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) will open in early June in Sunny Isle Shopping Center next to Champs. This modern, new imaging center will focus strictly on delivering premium quality MRI/CT services using the latest technological innovations. It is operated by St.Thomas Radiology Associates in conjunction with partners from the St. Croix medical community. The new practice will complement the healthcare options available to St. Croix residents and visitors, offering high quality and accessible MRI and CT here in the Caribbean.
“At St. Croix MRI/CT, our goal is to deliver comprehensive, high quality MRI and CT imaging in an environment that is warm, comfortable and efficient. We will provide services for patients at the highest standard of care available,” said Dr. Jeffrey Guller, a partner at St. Thomas Radiology Associates.
According to Dr. George Rosenberg, a partner at St. Thomas Radiology Associates, “The MRI equipment we have purchased for St. Croix MRI produces the highest quality MRI images available with short study times and is far and away the quickest MRI equipment available. In almost all cases referring physicians will receive MRI results of their patients’ studies within 24 hours or less.”
Magnetic resonance is a diagnostic imaging modality that utilizes a super-conducting magnet and radiofrequency waves to generate the most precise images of anatomy available. MRI scans deliver remarkably clear three-dimensional views of internal body structures. St. Croix MRI/CT will house the newest and most innovative MRI equipment on the market and the only advanced MRI system available on St. Croix.
Making patients feel at ease is an essential component of St. Croix MRI/CT’s philosophy. The MRI equipment chosen offers patient-friendly features that afford a highly comfortable and quiet experience during the exam.
After receiving a referral from a physician, patients will be given an appointment quickly. Upon arrival for MRI services, they can expect short wait times and to be on their way as soon as the procedure is completed. A typical MRI procedure takes between 15 and 45 minutes to complete. Reports will be automatically faxed to the referring physician’s office frequently on the day of the study.
Technical expertise will be a hallmark of St. Croix MRI/CT. Pam Colbert, a registered MRI technologist, will be the lead MRI technician. She recently completed employment at Beth Israel Medical Center, a Harvard teaching hospital. Colbert is no stranger to the Virgin Islands, as she formerly worked at St. Thomas Radiology Associates. She brings over 20 years of experience in administering MRI studies to her new position here on St. Croix.
Colbert said, “MRI scanning is becoming more patient friendly these days. I feel that putting a premium on patient comfort is very important. I am thrilled to be returning to the territory and excited about getting to know the people of St. Croix.”
Services at St. Croix MRI are comprehensive, including breast and vascular MRI services as well as advanced imaging of the central nervous system, spine and all musculoskeletal imaging. Specialized body imaging and hepatobiliary studies will also be performed. Contrast MRI exams and exams without the use of contrast material will also be offered.
Computed tomography or CT scanning has been utilized for decades to image the anatomy of the head, spine, chest, abdomen and pelvis. The new CT scanner will be a modern unit offering fast scan times and great detail. The unit will be a 16 slice, high speed, high resolution scanner that will provide doctors with detailed studies allowing for accurate diagnosis.
St. Croix MRI/CT will open its doors in June. Hours of operation will be from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday through Friday, with expanded hours as necessary. To make an appointment, call 778-5840. MRI and CT exams require a referral from a primary care physician. MRI imaging will be available next week. CT services will be available in early summer. Medicare and most insurance plans are accepted.