Image: Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation / Dr. Richard Darby and Dr. Alison Henry showcase the newest handheld ultrasound machine now available to health care professionals at Chilliwack General Hospital. 

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Chilliwack General Hospital

First of its kind handheld ultrasound machine arrives in Chilliwack

Jun 11, 2024 | 10:55 AM

CHILLIWACK — The Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation says new technology has arrived in Chilliwack and the surrounding Fraser Valley that equips health care professionals with access to an innovative, first of its kind ultrasound machine.

According to a news release from the foundation dated Tuesday, June 11, a first for Chilliwack’s growing health community has been achieved with the acquisition of a new point-of-care ultrasound.

“The latest technology reflects the process of innovation that is at the core of Fraser Health’s continued focus on transformation and growth,” said Dr. Lakhbir Jassal of the Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation.

The new mobile, handheld ultrasound (sonographic assessment of patients in care) provides several benefits the older model was unable to provide. For example, the new point-of-care ultrasound can be utilized while a patient is being transported to the hospital or at a site of trauma-enabling safe and efficient portable imaging. In contrast, the bedside ultrasound was only available in a contained space.

Chilliwack GP Dr. Alison Henry, the UBC site director for the Chilliwack Family Medicine residency program, said, “The point of care ultrasound is a new modality that will allow family physicians to provide improved bedside care. We are very grateful to the Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation for purchasing the handheld ultrasounds on behalf of family doctors in Chilliwack.”

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Dr. Jassal said the new machine can treat patients wherever they may be located.

“The new ultrasound allows patients in care to receive non-invasive, real-time imaging capability, and efficient medical assessment wherever they are located,” Dr. Jassal said. “The root of our funding is to help provide excellence in health care for Fraser Valley residents.”

To support projects like this one, please contact Lakhbir.Jassal@fraserhealth.ca, or visit fvhcf.ca to learn more.