Breakthrough Healthcare Campaign

In June of 1996, the provincial government designated The General as the site for Niagara’s first MRI. A dedicated committee of volunteers worked closely for 18 months to raise $7.2 million for Breakthrough Health Care, an initiative of The St. Catharines General Hospital Foundation. This new capital campaign would bring millions of dollars worth of much needed diagnostic equipment to Niagara, including:


MRI Scanner (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
The most powerful way to detect serious illnesses such as tumours fo the spine and brain, multiple sclerosis (MS), epilepsy, even kidney, liver and bone conditions.

Dual Head Gamma Camera
Vital in the fight against heart disease and cancer, this equipment will expand the practice of nuclear cardiology in Niagara.

DSA Unit (Digital Substraction Angiography)
Doctors can see constricted blood vessels and aneurysms before they cause stroke, hemorrhage or heart attack

Breast Screening Centre
Provides mammography, breast examination and assessment services to women aged 50 years and older – the highest risk age group for breast cancer. This comprehensive, fast-track service reduces delays and wait time for assessment, results and treatment.

Cardiac Investigative Unit
The Cardiac Investigative Unit brings together all cardiac test records and equipment into one easily accessible area, greatly reducing the time required for treatment.

Update: In Fall 2006 a new MRI unit was installed at the St. Catharines General Site with the newest technology available to enhance care as patients continue to receive high-quality exams. Currently, the Diagnostic Imaging department performs more than 7,500 MRI exams per year at the site.