CAT Scan Foundation
CAT scanning combines the use of a digital computer together with a rotating x-ray device to create detailed cross-sectional images or "slices" of the different organs and body parts such as the lungs, liver, kidneys and pancreas. The beam generates a 3-D image of internal structures. Doctors use CAT Scans to diagnose and treat a wide variety of ailments including: head trauma, cancer and osteoporosis. Doctors can examine the body one narrow slice at a time to pinpoint specific issues.
The CAT Scan was first installed in January 2006 and has since been upgraded to a 128-slice scanner, allowing for more detailed images in February 2017. Having a CAT scanner locally has eliminated the need to transfer urgent cases to other facilities for a CAT scan. It has also eliminated the need for non-urgent patients to travel the long distances that were previously required for CAT scans. For many patients, CAT scans can be performed on an outpatient basis. Having one locally has helped to alleviate the anxiety for patients and family members and has had a tremendous impact on diagnosis and treatment.
Currently Temiskaming Hospital boasts the shortest wait time in Northern Ontario for diagnostic CAT Scan service. Patients across the province have to wait an average of 51 days for at CAT Scan ordered by their doctors, while patients in our district wait only 12 days! Temiskaming Hospital continues to participate in the Northeast Ontario Stroke Program since obtaining designation as a Telestroke site in 2010. Having a CAT Scan available to patients minutes after arriving to the hospital, is a necessary component to belonging to this elite group.
As of December, 31, 2020, the Temiskaming Hospital’s CAT Scan Foundation contributed $1.6M to the CT operations, costs which are not covered by the government.
CAT Scan Letter of Direction
The CAT Scanner is booked daily for outpatient appointments and is available after hours, night or day for emergency situations, should the need arise. This CAT Scan unit is utilized by patients not just locally, but from across the district for a variety of exams including diagnostic CAT Scan head exams for the Telestroke program. Before the CAT Scan was available at Temiskaming Hospital, patients needed to travel to North Bay or Timmins. The availability of CAT Scans locally has the benefit of speeding up the diagnosis made by the radiologist, whereby the physician can initiate the appropriate therapy required for treating their patients.
The Foundation’s goal was to raise a total of $2.3 million, with the investment income being applied toward the operating costs of the CAT Scan. The Foundation has met its goal, which includes a $500,000 donated by Frog’s Breath and $500,000 donated by Grant Forest Products Inc. for a total of $1 million. The Temiskaming Hospital CAT Scan Foundation invests these funds with the advice and guidance of a professional fund manager.
The CAT Scan Foundation has received funds from numerous events and promotions including the CAT Scan Christmas production at the Cobalt Classic Theatre, the “Be a CAT Scanner” campaign, the annual Penny Drive at the local schools, a fashion show, McHappy Day proceeds, a Monster Bingo, the New Liskeard Lions’ Dragon Boat Festival, the Smitty Memorial Scramble, and running the Canteen at Sutton Bay Countryfest. Other fundraising initiatives have been undertaken and we thank everyone involved in helping the Foundation to meet its goal.
The purchase of the CAT Scan machine has be funded exclusively by donations from the public and local businesses. The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care does not provide funding for the purchase of CAT Scan machines. These donations have not only allowed us to purchase the CAT Scan, but are also used to fund the operation of the equipment. When a donation is made, you will be asked to sign a “letter of direction”. This allows the Foundation to accumulate funds to be used indefinitely to fund the operation of the CAT Scan. Without a signed letter of direction, Revenue Canada requires that 80% of the donations received be spent within 12 months of receipt.