SPRINGFIELD, Ga. — Effingham Health System has expanded its diagnostic imaging capabilities with the addition of a new 256-slice computed tomography (CT) scanner, a technology upgrade hospital officials say will improve patient care, reduce travel for specialized imaging and strengthen emergency services.
The Effingham County Board of Commissioners approved allocating $1.8 million for the new scanner on April 7. The advanced CT scanner will replace the hospital's existing 64-slice unit and is expected to be installed and ready for patients by early summer 2026.
The "256-slice" designation refers to the scanner's ability to capture hundreds of detailed cross-sectional images in a single rotation, allowing physicians to obtain clearer images more quickly than older CT systems. CT scanners use a series of X-ray images to create detailed views of the body's organs, bones, blood vessels and soft tissues, helping physicians diagnose conditions such as stroke, heart disease, traumatic injuries and cancer.
The investment comes as demand for imaging services continues to climb. According to Effingham Health System, CT scan procedures have increased 165% since fiscal year 2016, driven by the county's population growth and greater reliance on advanced diagnostic imaging.
"We are proud to be among the first hospitals in Georgia — and one of only a few in the state — to offer this advanced CT scan technology," Fran Witt, president and CEO of Effingham Health System, said.
Expanded imaging capabilities
Hospital officials said the new scanner will complete exams more quickly while maintaining high-quality images, allowing more patients to be seen each day.
The technology is expected to improve emergency care by providing faster diagnosis for stroke patients, heart-related emergencies and trauma cases, where rapid treatment can significantly affect outcomes.
With two CT scanners available, the hospital also expects to improve reliability by maintaining imaging services during equipment maintenance or periods of high demand.
Officials said the scanner's expanded cardiac imaging capabilities will allow more patients to receive care locally, reducing the need for transfers to larger hospitals outside Effingham County.
Benefits for patients
Effingham Health System said patients can expect shorter scan times, lower radiation exposure and improved comfort during imaging procedures for both adults and children.
The hospital also anticipates fewer residents will need to travel outside the county for advanced imaging services, reducing delays in diagnosis and treatment while lowering costs and easing stress for patients and their families.
Hospital leaders said the investment also supports long-term efforts to strengthen local healthcare by attracting specialists, improving emergency medical services and keeping more healthcare dollars within the community.
Community invited to open house
Residents will have an opportunity to see the new technology during a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, July 23, in the atrium at Effingham Health System.
The event will include remarks from hospital officials, a ribbon cutting with the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce, tours of the new CT scanner and light refreshments.
