$1M investment brings modern diagnostic imaging to North Island patients

Stock photo of a doctor reviewing a chest x-ray.

A visit to the X-ray department at Port Hardy Hospital now comes with updated imaging technology, as the North Island facility brings a new digital radiography system online following a $1-million upgrade.

The project replaces older X-ray equipment with a digital system funded jointly by the Province of British Columbia and the Regional Hospital District of Mount Waddington, part of broader efforts to modernize diagnostic services in rural and remote communities.

Health officials say the system is designed to produce higher-quality images while using lower radiation doses compared to previous technology, supporting clinicians as they assess and diagnose patients.

The exam room has also been upgraded, including the addition of a patient lift to help with positioning and reduce physical strain on staff during imaging procedures.

In 2025, around 4,000 X-rays were done at the hospital, highlighting the steady demand for diagnostic services in the region.

“We continue to make progress in upgrading the quality of care in the north Vancouver Island region, and this new X-ray unit is another important step forward,” said Port Hardy Mayor Pat Corbett-Labatt.

What officials are saying

“People in rural and remote communities deserve access to the same level of health-care technology as anywhere else in B.C.,” Health Minister Josie Osborne said in a statement. “This upgrade is intended to support faster imaging, clearer results and a better experience for patients closer to home.”

Island Health board chair Leah Hollins said the investment reflects ongoing improvements in northern health care, calling the new system an important step forward for the region.

Regional District of Mount Waddington chief administrative officer David Kim said the upgrade is expected to support faster assessments and reduce the need for patients to travel outside the region for care.

“It will also support and protect our health-care workers by reducing the risk of workplace injuries. This is an important step forward in strengthening health-care services for the north Island,” said Kim.