Enhanced Radiology service in Uist and Barra thanks to equipment upgrade

The radiology department at Ospadal Uibhist agus Bharraigh has recently undergone a £300,000 equipment upgrade to improve the x-ray service in Uist and Barra.

The new equipment has many advanced features will which enhance radiation safety and the overall patient experience. It also provides the option to show patients, where appropriate, the images on the X-ray machine to help them to better understand their injury or condition.

We have received very positive feedback on the upgrade from both patients and staff commenting that the new décor makes the room feel bigger and brighter.

A new structural steel ceiling was installed during the first couple of weeks of the upgrade. This will provide a better range of movement of the x-ray tube.

Work then began on upgrading the flooring, installing new lights, painting the room and finally adding in new cupboards before installing the upgraded equipment.

The previous equipment was over 12 years old, so this was a welcome improvement for the team.

Ishbel Walker, Specialist Radiographer, NHS Western Isles, said: “I am delighted with the investment and new upgrade to the radiology equipment at Ospadal Uibhist agus Bharraigh. The equipment is a newer version of the Philips digital system we already had but has several new features which make it easier to operate and the image quality is amazing."

The upgrade project was funded by additional capital allocation received from the Scottish Government.

NHS Western Isles would like to thank both patients and staff for their patience during the upgrade and slight disruption to the service. Normal service resumed on Friday 16th May 2025.