New unit 'great news' for Vale of Leven Hospital patients

The investment has been secured to replace the current mammography unit which runs on an analogue system.

The new unit will be situated in the hospital's imaging department and give clearer, fully digital images.

Arwel Williams, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde's director of diagnostics, said: “This is great news for the Vale and great news for our patients.

“This is a significant investment in the Vale which, along with the recent new digital radiography room and upgrade to the CT scanner, will ensure patients receive access to the latest technological advances.”

During the complex installation of the unit it will be necessary for patients to have mammography examinations carried out at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley and Inverclyde Royal Hospital in Greenock prior to their clinic appointment or if they require a follow up examination.

The equipment is now being replaced and the new unit should be up and running by September.

Arwel added: “Our clinical teams are ensuring that this temporary arrangement has little or no impact on patients and ensure there is no loss of overall capacity to the breast service in Clyde.

"We are sure that patients will appreciate that this is necessary to provide best service to patients within the local area.”

Jim Moohan, chairman of the Hospital Watch campaign group expressed delight at this investment by the health board.

He said: “On behalf of the community we are delighted by the news as it’s an indication of the growing belief in the security and stabilisation of the Vale of Leven Hospital.”