U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Mayor James Donchess (far left) met with Michael Culbert, director of Diagnostic Imaging Services at Southern New Hampshire Medical Center, on Aug. 19 to discuss the hospital's new GE Omni Legend PET/CT Imaging System. Courtesy photo/New Hampshire Medical Center

NASHUA – U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Mayor James Donchess visited Southern New Hampshire Medical Center on Aug. 19 to see the hospital’s new GE Omni Legend PET/CT Imaging System.

In August 2024, Shaeen secured $453,000 through Congressionally Directed Spending to purchase the machine. As a result, Southern New Hampshire Medical Center is now the only hospital in the state to have this technology.

“It’s vital that healthcare centers in our communities have the most up to date medical equipment and facilities so that they can better serve Granite Staters,” said Shaheen. “With healthcare costs rising, I was glad to help Southern New Hampshire Health secure Congressionally Directed Spending to get a new PET/CT scanner and to see some of the work the hospital is doing to update their facilities so that patients can get the care they need right in Nashua.”

Using artificial intelligence, the system creates exceptionally clear images while reducing the patient’s exposure to radiation. The imagery helps doctors determine the precise course of treatment for cancer, heart conditions and brain disorders. It can also be used for patients in oncology, emergency care as well as inpatient and outpatient care

“Having a dedicated, full-time, hospital-based PET/CT imaging system like the one at Southern New Hampshire Medical Center, allows us to see patients more quickly to meet their needs right here in their community,” said Michael Culbert, director of Diagnostic Imaging Services. “Patients face shorter wait times, have an easier time making appointments, and having access right here at Southern New Hampshire Medical Center makes it much more convenient.”

Donchess said having this technology in Nashua will save patients from having to drive to Boston or waiting for an appointment at a mobile PET/CT scan trailer unit.

Since the machine was installed, the number of PET/CT exams has increased by 16.5 percent.