CVMC Expands Imaging Services with New MRI Suite

Canyon Vista Medical Center (CVMC) is proud to announce the addition of a new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) suite and advanced MRI system, expanding diagnostic imaging capabilities for Sierra Vista and surrounding communities. 

The project included a complete construction buildout of shell space within the hospital’s main radiology department, creating a modern environment designed to support the growing needs of the region. 

This investment reflects CVMC’s continued commitment to providing high-quality healthcare services close to home while meeting the increasing demand for advanced imaging services. 

For the past 17 years, the hospital’s existing MRI unit has served the community well. However, as technology and patient care needs have evolved, limitations associated with older MRI systems created challenges in offering some of the advanced imaging services now considered standard in modern healthcare. Certain specialized exams, including advanced abdominal imaging requiring dynamic capabilities and compatibility with newer patient monitoring equipment, were difficult or not possible to perform on the older system.

“With the addition of this new MRI system, we are able to significantly expand the level of imaging services available locally,” said Jayme Clemons, director of imaging services at CVMC. “Patients who may have previously needed to travel outside of the community for certain exams can now receive those services closer to home. This is an important step forward for the patients and families we serve throughout Cochise County. "

The addition of the new MRI system allows CVMC to provide these advanced imaging services locally, reducing the need for patients to leave the community for care. This is especially important in a diverse region like Cochise County, where military personnel, veterans, retirees, and families all rely on access to timely and advanced healthcare services.

With two MRI systems now in operation, CVMC is also better positioned to meet the increasing imaging demands of the community. The expanded capacity allows for improved scheduling access, shorter wait times, and enhanced flexibility for both outpatient and inpatient imaging needs.

In addition, the hospital’s existing MRI system has recently been enhanced with artificial intelligence-powered imaging technology from Subtle Medical, helping improve image quality, increase scan efficiency, and support a better overall patient experience while maintaining existing workflows.

In addition to offering advanced imaging capabilities, the new MRI technology significantly improves scan efficiency. While MRI exams traditionally take longer than computed tomography (CT) scans due to the detailed nature of the images produced, advancements in technology have reduced scan times dramatically. Many exams that once took significantly longer on older systems can now be completed in nearly half the time while still producing high-quality image quality.

The new MRI system further strengthens CVMC’s ability to provide advanced diagnostic imaging services while continuing to support the health and wellness of the growing community.