Ionia County Memorial Hospital

Ionia County Memorial Hospital’s Radiology Department has expanded the days of operation for its mobile Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) service to now include Sunday, 7:30 am to 5:00 pm. Previously, MRI services were available 2 days a week on Wednesday and Saturday, but because of greater demand for services, hours have been expanded.

Ernie Heady, Radiology Manager went on to explain that the hospital "needed to meet an increase in demand from physicians and by extension, their patients." He said the mobile MRI procedures have been steadily increasing. "And we expect the trend to continue with the current economic state," Heady added. "It is nice to be able to offer our patients this service close to home. During these expanded hours we will be available to accommodate a complete and diverse range of MRI procedures."

This valuable diagnostic tool uses magnetism, radio waves and a sophisticated computer to produce detailed images of internal body structures. It is used to diagnose the effects of trauma to the brain and spine, stroke, tumors and aneurysms. An MRI scan can be used to evaluate the structure of the heart and aorta, detecting aneurysms or tears. It provides valuable information on glands and organs, the structure of joints, tissues and bones of the body. MRI often provides more detail than other tests, such as a CT scan, and does not require X-rays or the injection of dyes or other substances.

The MRI unit is from Mid-Michigan MRI, which is a not-for-profit, joint business venture between Michigan State University Department of Radiology and Sparrow Health System.

For further information, please call the Radiology Department at Ionia County Memorial Hospital, 616-527-4200. Appointments are scheduled through your physician office.

Last updated: 23 February, 2010 02:01 PM