Innisfil to get first MRI scanner as RVH expands diagnostic imaging services

Residents of Innisfil and South Simcoe will soon have greater access to advanced diagnostic imaging services as Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH) prepares to install the community’s first Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanner at the Rizzardo Health and Wellness Centre.

The new MRI scanner is expected to significantly improve access to care closer to home for patients and families throughout the region. Once operational, the scanner will allow RVH to provide nearly 4,000 additional MRI scans annually, helping reduce wait times and expand diagnostic imaging capacity across South Simcoe.

To accommodate the new equipment, construction is underway and continue through December. The project includes the installation of a prefabricated modular unit on the south side of the Rizzardo Health and Wellness Centre, adjacent to the existing RVH clinic space.

Construction activities will primarily take place outside the building, with regular clinic operations and services continuing throughout the project.

RVH says patient, visitor, and staff parking will remain fully accessible and is not expected to be impacted by the construction. Any required service interruptions will occur outside normal business hours, with advance notice provided whenever possible.

Construction and contractor activity will be limited to designated work areas to minimize disruption for patients, staff, and tenants using the facility.

The MRI scanner is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2026.

Hospital officials say the addition of the MRI scanner will help ensure more patients can access critical diagnostic imaging closer to home while supporting the region’s increasing healthcare needs.