The healthy benefits of AI: How an Edinburgh hospital is investing in smart scans to improve patient care
Nuffield Health Edinburgh Hospital introduces new AI assisted MRI and CT scanners, improving imaging results and making diagnostic scanning more comfortable for patients.
While AI often generates negative headlines, a practical use in a Scottish hospital is transforming the way medical imaging is delivered.
Nuffield Health Edinburgh Hospital has benefited from a major investment in partnership with GE, equipping the hospital with state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging facilities.
At the Colinton Road hospital, the investment has made an immediate difference in both imaging quality and patient comfort in MRI CT and DEXA (bone density and body composition) scanning, using AI technology to assist behind the scenes.
Anne Perks the Radiology Manager at Nuffield Health Edinburgh Hospital, said: “Artificial intelligence is not replacing the clinical expertise of our radiographers or radiologists, it is supporting them by automating certain aspects of patient positioning and scan planning. This helps to improve workflow efficiency, enhance image quality, and support more consistent examinations. As a result, patients can spend less time in the scanner and, where appropriate, benefit from imaging protocols that optimise radiation dose while maintaining diagnostic quality.
In addition, the new scanners have a wider, more spacious design that can improve patient comfort and accessibility. They also provide higher-quality images and faster scanning times, enabling more efficient examinations and supporting accurate clinical diagnosis.
“We are the only private hospital offering bone density (DEXA) scans in the East of Scotland. However, our new machine goes beyond this, as it also offers detailed body composition analysis, measuring bone, muscle and fat distribution, including visceral fat and can also do bone density tests, for athletes, or test muscle mass.” Muscle mass testing can be very useful in patients undergoing treatment with a GLP-1 to manage and preserve muscle and strength.
Jon Foley, Consultant Radiologist, said: “This investment represents a significant step forward for diagnostic services for the area. Access to high-quality imaging plays a crucial role in the early detection and treatment of many conditions.”
"By bringing together some of the most advanced diagnostic technologies available, not only can we offer a wider range of scans, we can provide patients with faster access to tests, improved image quality and greater diagnostic confidence, helping people receive the right care sooner."
Nuffield Health’s Hospital in Edinburgh offer a range of medical specialities for both privately insured and self-pay patients. Patients can view and book available appointments online, often within as little as 24 hours. Some specialities require a referral from a doctor, but the hospital can advise.
To find out more visit the hospital’s website here