Morrow County Health District will replace an aging CT scanner to improve access to emergency, trauma, and screening diagnostic imaging services at our Critical Access Hospital in Heppner, Oregon. - Morrow County Health District (MCHD) is requesting Community Project Funding (CPF)/Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) support to replace an aging computed tomography (CT) scanner at its Critical Access Hospital in Heppner, Oregon. MCHD serves residents throughout Morrow County and surrounding rural communities, including Heppner, Ione, Lexington, Irrigon, and Boardman. Replacement of the existing CT scanner will improve access to advanced diagnostic imaging services for rural and underserved populations while enhancing patient safety, operational efficiency, image quality, and diagnostic capabilities. The project will fund the purchase and installation of a new CT scanner with 80 detector rows and 80-slice imaging capability. The new system includes advanced imaging technology, artificial intelligence-assisted workflow tools, automated patient positioning, dose-reduction technology, advanced image reconstruction, metal artifact reduction software, and a wide-bore design that improves patient comfort and accessibility. In addition to replacing aging equipment, the project will expand local healthcare services by introducing coronary artery calcium scoring, a cardiovascular screening service not currently available through MCHD. Upon award, MCHD will complete procurement activities and place the equipment order. The vendor estimates a manufacturing and delivery timeline of approximately six months. During this period, MCHD will coordinate project planning, staff training preparation, site readiness activities, and installation scheduling. To ensure uninterrupted access to critical diagnostic imaging services, MCHD will utilize a temporary mobile CT unit while the existing scanner is removed and the new system is installed. Flooring within the CT suite will be replaced during the equipment transition period before installation of the new scanner. Following delivery, the project will include equipment installation, testing, protocol validation, staff training, and implementation into clinical operations. The new CT scanner will support emergency, trauma, stroke, cardiovascular, cancer, and routine diagnostic imaging services while improving workflow efficiency and reducing radiation exposure through advanced dose-management technologies. Expected outcomes include improved access to timely diagnostic imaging services, expanded cardiovascular screening capabilities, reduced delays in diagnosis and treatment, enhanced patient experience, and strengthened healthcare infrastructure for residents of rural Eastern Oregon. The project will help ensure continued access to high-quality diagnostic imaging services close to home and support the long-term healthcare needs of the communities served by Morrow County Health District.
