The health system is expanding appointment hours for an MRI at two hospitals in the eastern-urban zone to make up for the temporary suspension of service at the Health Sciences.

MRI machines at St. Clare’s and the Janeway are now running 24 hours a day, and will do so until February. The expanded schedule is designed to accommodate an increased number of scans while the MRI at the Health Sciences is down.

NL Health Services is securing a portable unit, which is expected to be in place next month. Additional MRI units will be in place at the new Ambulatory Care Hub in the old Costco building, scheduled to open in the fall.

The health system is in the process of hiring more technologists and clerical staff.

Dr. Gena Bugden, vice-president of medical services at NL Health, says the extended hours are one way that they are working to provide patients with earlier appointments.

Appointments may be scheduled at any time during the day or night as part of the extended hours. If there is a change in appointment time, patients will be notified by phone.