Mobile CT scanner in place while Kootenay Lake Hospital under renovation for upgrades

Listen to the broadcast version of this story, which aired on Kootenay Morning on July 29, 2026:

A mobile CT scanner is in place at Kootenay Lake Hospital while upgrades to the medical imaging department are underway in preparation for the installation of a new CT scanner later this year.

Kootenay Central MLA Brittny Anderson said that she’s happy to see the project moving forward and that having access to quality health care close to home is important to everyone in the Kootenays, noting that patients will continue to receive CT services locally while the renovations take place.

“And so this will be upgrades to the medical imaging department and will improve diagnostic services and patient care in the Kootenays,” said Anderson. “We’re increasing the capacity by over 25 per cent, with approximately 9,000 CT scans [to be] performed annually. And it’s a part of our broader commitment to strengthen the healthcare system and ensure people in the Interior parts of BC and here in the Kootenays have the access to the healthcare that they need.”

The upgrades include flooring, ceiling and millwork improvements, new doors and a new partition in the medical imaging department. Renovations are expected to be completed and the new CT scanner installed in December. 

In the meantime, a temporary mobile CT unit is in place in front of the hospital to ensure minimal disruption to patient care. Patients coming for appointments should continue to check in inside the hospital, at the medical imaging reception desk, before proceeding to the mobile unit. To support access during construction, accessible parking spaces have been added to the parking lot, while the BC Transit stop has been moved to the right of the main entrance.

Of the total $4.25-million renovation project budget, the province is providing $2.55 million, with the West Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital District contributing $1.7 million.