NATIONAL MRI CENTRE NEARS COMPLETION AS INSTALLATION OF KEY SYSTEMS ADVANCES

Basseterre, Saint Kitts, October 19, 2026 (SKNIS): The construction of the National MRI Centre has reached another significant milestone with the successful installation of the facility’s main chiller system, bringing the introduction of advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) services at the Joseph N. France General Hospital closer to reality.

The latest development signals continued progress on this transformative healthcare project, which forms part of the government’s commitment to strengthening the Federation’s healthcare infrastructure, expanding access to specialised diagnostic services, and improving the quality of care available to citizens and residents.

With the main chiller system now installed, work is expected to intensify next week as construction teams advance the remaining electrical, network, and additional air-conditioning installations. Construction will also commence on the specialised Faraday cage, an essential component of the MRI suite that shields the scanning environment from external radiofrequency interference, helping to ensure the accuracy and reliability of diagnostic imaging.

The MRI machine itself is scheduled to reach the Federation in early November. Following its arrival, installation of the state-of-the-art equipment is expected to take approximately seven days, marking another major step towards the completion and eventual commissioning of the facility.

Acting Prime Minister with responsibility for Health, the Honourable Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, underscored the importance of the National MRI Centre to the future of healthcare delivery in Saint Kitts and Nevis.

“The National MRI Centre represents a significant investment in the health and well-being of our people. By investing in this advanced diagnostic technology, we are strengthening our capacity to detect and diagnose medical conditions, support timely treatment, and reduce the burden on patients who must seek specialised services overseas. This is about building a stronger, more accessible healthcare system for every citizen and resident of our Federation,” Acting Prime Minister Dr. Hanley said.

Once operational, the National MRI Centre is expected to enhance the Federation’s diagnostic capabilities by providing access to advanced imaging services that play a critical role in identifying and assessing a wide range of medical conditions. 

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