Klickitat Valley Health MRI Wing - Klickitat Valley Health is requesting Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) funding, administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), to support the implementation of the MRI Addition Project. Located in Goldendale, WA, this initiative will critically expand and modernize local diagnostic imaging capacity through the construction of a dedicated MRI suite. Project Purpose and Need: The primary purpose of this project is to address a severe shortage of advanced diagnostic imaging capabilities within our regional healthcare network. Currently, patients in Klickitat County do not have 24/7 access to diagnostic scans, leading to delays in critical treatment planning. Furthermore, due to the lack of specialized local infrastructure, many vulnerable, rural, and elderly residents are forced to travel significant distances outside the community to access standard MRI services, presenting a major barrier to equitable healthcare. Activities to be Performed: Federal funding will be directly utilized to complete the necessary phases of the MRI addition. Key activities include: - Complete the design and permitting of the project - Site work and build out of a new MRI addition adjacent to the existing Diagnostic Imaging Dept and Emergency Room. - Executing the interior build-out and renovation of existing space to meet strict clinical safety guidelines for magnetic imaging, including RF shielding, specialized structural support, and dedicated climate control systems. - Procuring and installing a high-definition MRI system along with necessary clinical equipment and software integration. - Optimizing clinical workflow areas to ensure a safe, private, and accessible environment for patient care and imaging preparation. Expected Outcomes: Upon completion, this project will significantly expand local diagnostic capacity, allowing the facility to serve an estimated 1,000 additional patients annually. The primary outcomes will include reduction in patient wait times, larger patient catchment area, diagnostic access for emergency and outpatient medical cases, and the elimination of travel burdens for regional patients. By providing immediate, local access to high-resolution imaging, the project will accelerate clinical decision-making for oncology, cardiology, neurology, and orthopedic care. Target Population and Beneficiaries: The project will directly benefit the diverse population of central Klickitat County in Washington State. The target service area includes medically undeserved populations, low-income families, and rural residents who experience systemic geographic barriers to healthcare. By embedding these advanced capabilities locally, this project strengthens the regional healthcare safety net and ensures that high-quality, life-saving diagnostic services are accessible to all community members.
