Bluewater Health, in partnership with the Bluewater Health Foundation and the Province of Ontario, is adding a second MRI machine at its Sarnia hospital – with the new scanner expected to be operational by mid-to-late 2027.
Sarnia-Lambton residents will soon have greater access to diagnostic imaging services, as Bluewater Health announces plans to add a second MRI machine at its Sarnia hospital – a move the organization says will reduce wait times, support earlier diagnosis, and strengthen local healthcare for the region's roughly 131,000 residents.
The expansion is a three-way partnership between Bluewater Health, Bluewater Health Foundation, and the Province of Ontario. The province will contribute $800,800 in annual operating funding to support 2,080 operating hours per year on the new machine. The Foundation, meanwhile, will lead a community fundraising campaign to cover the cost of purchasing and installing the equipment – funds from a recent sold-out gala have already been earmarked toward the new scanner.
Bluewater Health currently performs approximately 12,000 MRI scans annually, with demand continuing to climb both locally and across Ontario. MRI imaging is used to diagnose and monitor a wide range of conditions, including cancer, neurological disorders, stroke, and musculoskeletal injuries.
"Expanding MRI capacity at Bluewater Health will help improve access to timely diagnostic imaging, strengthen local healthcare services, and support better experiences and outcomes for patients and families," said Jane Mathews, Vice-President, Operations & Chief Nursing Executive at Bluewater Health.
Kathy Alexander, Executive Director of the Foundation, emphasized that the campaign goes beyond buying a piece of equipment. "This campaign will be about more than equipment – it's about improving access to care, reducing wait times, and ensuring patients can receive the diagnostic imaging they need, close to home," she said.
Dr. Youssef Almalki, Medical Director of Diagnostic Imaging at Bluewater Health, added that the investment will support faster clinical decision-making and improved care coordination across hospital programs and services.
Sarnia-Lambton MPP Bob Bailey also welcomed the announcement, framing it as part of the provincial government's broader healthcare investment strategy under Premier Ford.
Planning is already underway, with renovations and installation expected to have the second MRI operational by mid-to-late 2027. Further details on construction timelines and fundraising initiatives will be shared as the project progresses.
