McBride, B.C.- The X-ray department at the McBride and District Hospital is going digital.

An equipment upgrade will enhance the quality of the X-rays and increase access to radiologists as the images can be quickly sent to specialists in other communities. The digital technology will also eliminate the need to have chemicals and old films on site. Installation of the new equipment and training for staff in McBride will take place next week. 

“The collaboration and relationship building with our regional and community partners is enhancing the services that we are able to provide in the Robson Valley,” said Debbie Strang, Northern Health health services administrator for the Robson Valley. “This will improve service access and further meet some of the needs of our rural communities.” 

There is more good news for the community as the Canadian Back Institute (CBI) from Prince George will be offering physiotherapy services in McBride two days per month starting in July.

Previously, residents of McBride had to travel to Prince George to receive physiotherapy services, but the collaboration between CBI and Northern Health fulfills a need of offering medical services closer to where people live. Residents of the Robson Valley interested in taking advantage of these services can ask for a referral from their physician.