Mount Nittany Health recently celebrated the completion of a multi-year project to comprehensively renovate and upgrade its diagnostic pavilion at the medical center in College Township.
The third and final phase of the project included new and updated MRI equipment.
A new 3.0T MRI system “allows for high-resolution studies, including advanced neurological and prostate imaging, that were previously unavailable within the region,” the health system said in a news release.
“For example, we’ve already started to notice a significant difference in prostate imaging,” said Dr. Jacob Alexander, a Mount Nittany radiologist. “We’ve noticed that it improves accuracy in prostate cancer imaging, which allows our urologists to more actively target prostate cancer.”
The lab’s existing 1.5T MRI system, meanwhile, was upgraded to reduce scan times, lowering the average patient exam by about 10 minutes.
“These upgrades allow us to offer faster, more accurate diagnostics while improving access for patients and providers, all while keeping services close to home,” Amy Trithart, chief human resources and ancillary services officer, said in a statement. “This project reflects Mount Nittany Health’s commitment to investing in both patient care and the team members who make it possible.”
Renovations to the diagnostic pavilion kicked off in 2022.
Phase one was completed in 2023 with new imaging technology, including two new CT scanners, located closer to the emergency department to streamline patient care.
Second phase renovations, completed in 2024, included a new patient waiting room with registration and radiology clerical area; ultrasound department; digital specials X-ray room for interventional radiology; digital X-ray room; technologist’s workroom and office; updated corridors; and a renovated nuclear medicine department.
Staff spaces were also updated with dedicated RN workspaces, modernized locker and dressing rooms and an improved staff lounge.
The hospital’s imaging department operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and performs 160,000 imaging studies annually, including more than 48,000 CT scans, 10,000 MRIs, 18,000 ultrasounds and 20,000 mammograms. Those numbers are projected to rise in the coming years as the region’s population, especially older individuals, grows, and the renovations will help to meet the additional demand.
“It’s a better environment for our patients and our staff, and something everyone can be proud of,” Larry Garman, imaging services manager, said.
