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Kona Community Hospital has a new magnetic response imaging machine.
West Hawaii Today reported Wednesday the machine allows obese patients to get MRIs. The machine’s large opening also allows MRIs for those with claustrophobia.
It’s the same model as the one used at The Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu and has a bore opening of nearly 2.3 feet in diameter.
Hospital officials say the cost of renovating the MRI suite, buying the machine and a six-year service contract is $2.5 million.
Hospital Assistant Administrator Lance Anderson says the new machine represents the best MRI technology on the outer islands.
