How one community member is bringing the future to the Comox Valley
AI-Enhanced MRI and Advanced Airway Technology Now Elevating Local Healthcare
Photo left to right: Craig Dickson, Respiratory Lead at Comox Valley Hospital, and Dr. Lily Edelson, Emergency Room Physician at Comox Valley Hospital.
Thanks to the generosity and vision of one dedicated community member, patients in the Comox Valley are now experiencing faster, clearer diagnostic imaging and safer, more effective emergency care—all without leaving the region.
Through the extraordinary support of local donor Frank Carter, Comox Valley Hospital has acquired two groundbreaking technologies: an AI-assisted MRI imaging system and an Enhanced Glidescope airway visualization machine. These advancements are transforming patient care and enabling healthcare providers to deliver the highest standard of service right here at home.
“This is a transformational gift,” said Rhonda Stevens, Co-Executive Director of the Comox Valley Healthcare Foundation. “This community member is ensuring that our hospital has access to the most advanced and latest technology available. Their commitment to healthcare and to the people of this community is truly inspiring.
A New Era of Diagnostic Imaging
The AI-powered MRI technology now in use at Comox Valley Hospital has dramatically changed how scans are conducted and how quickly patients receive results.
“The Deep Resolve software is truly a game changer,” said Alexandra Melanson, Manager of Medical Imaging for North Vancouver Island. “We’ve seen up to a 40% reduction in scan times, all while improving image quality. That means faster, more accurate diagnostics and the ability to serve more patients in our community.”
This AI-enhanced system uses intelligent algorithms to increase image clarity while significantly reducing scan durations. Traditional MRI scans can take 15–30 minutes; with this new system, many can be completed in just 5–10 minutes. This not only improves patient comfort—especially for those with anxiety or claustrophobia—but also increases hospital capacity and reduces wait times.
“These shorter scan times make a real difference for patients,” added Melanson. “We’re seeing fewer patients needing sedatives and scans being completed quicker and more comfortably.”
Life-Saving Innovation in Emergency Care
In addition to advanced imaging, the Emergency Department at Comox Valley Hospital has been equipped with a state-of-the-art Enhanced Glidescope video laryngoscopy system, also funded by Mr. Carter.
This system provides simultaneous high-definition visualization for both video laryngoscopy and bronchoscopy, making it a critical tool for managing difficult airways—a common and potentially life-threatening challenge in emergency and critical care.
“This advanced equipment has increased our confidence in managing difficult airways,” said Craig Dickson, Respiratory Therapy Lead at Comox Valley Hospital. “The larger screen and dual-view capabilities allow for precise airway management, especially in complex or emergency situations. We are grateful for our community members who care deeply about ensuring our healthcare teams are equipped with the latest technology to provide the best care possible.”
A Community That Cares
Comox Valley Hospital is proud to be among the leaders in adopting cutting-edge healthcare technologies in the Island Health region. These advancements are not only improving patient outcomes but also boosting staff efficiency and morale.
None of this would be possible without the community's continued support—and particularly, without the generosity of Frank Carter, whose commitment to local healthcare is leaving a lasting legacy.
“This kind of gift elevates care across the entire system,” said Stevens. “It’s an investment in every patient who walks through our hospital doors today and for many years to come.”