Sixty scans have been carried since the service launched in April, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for diagnostic care
A new CT angiography service at Sligo University Hospital (SUH) promises to give patients faster access to specialist cardiac imaging closer to home.
The service, which commenced in April, has seen more than 60 patients receive CT angiography scans, providing timely investigations and results for people in the region.
Prior to the service, many Sligo patients requiring CT angiography had to travel to Dublin for their scan. The new service means patients can now receive this advanced diagnostic test locally, reducing travel times, improving access to care, and helping clinicians make faster decisions about treatment.
CT angiography is an advanced imaging technique that combines CT scanning with contrast dye to produce detailed images of the heart and blood vessels. It plays a vital role in diagnosing coronary artery disease and a range of other cardiovascular conditions, supporting early diagnosis and more effective treatment planning.
“The introduction of CT angiography at Sligo University Hospital is an important step forward for healthcare delivery,” said SUH consultant cardiologist Dr Diarmaid Hughes.
“It enhances local access to advanced diagnostics, improves the patient experience and supports timely clinical decision-making closer to home.
“Patients who previously faced lengthy journeys to Dublin can now access this specialist investigation in Sligo, allowing us to diagnose conditions sooner and begin treatment without unnecessary delays.”
SUH hospital manager Grainne McCann said: “Every improvement we make is about delivering better care for our patients.
“Having this service available in Sligo means people can stay closer to their families and support networks while receiving the specialist investigations they need. It reduces the burden of travel, shortens waiting times for diagnosis and reflects our commitment to providing high-quality healthcare closer to home for our patients.”
Leona, a patient who has benefited from the new service said, “When you are waiting to find out what is wrong with your heart, the last thing you want is a long journey to another hospital.
“Being able to have the scan in Sligo University Hospital made a huge difference. It was reassuring to be treated close to home with my family nearby, and everything happened much more quickly than I expected. Everything was explained clearly and the staff were fantastic.”
The new CT angiography service forms part of the hospital’s ongoing commitment to enhancing cardiology services locally, together with improving access to modern diagnostic and treatment pathways.