Kane County Hospital focuses on safety ahead of new MRI launch
Kane County Hospital is continuing preparations for the arrival of its new in-house MRI machine, expected in summer 2027. As part of that preparation, hospital leaders and local emergency response partners recently met to review fire safety procedures, emergency protocols and patient safety considerations specific to MRI operations.
The planning meeting brought together members of several departments and community response teams, including Kane County Hospital MRI Technologist Kandice Glover, Imaging Department Manager Tyler Hafen, the hospital’s Radiation Safety Officer, EMS leadership, local firefighters and Emergency Department physician Dr. Samuel Bergin.
MRI environments require unique safety precautions because of the powerful magnetic field produced by the equipment. Standard emergency response procedures often need to be adjusted to ensure that equipment, personnel and patients can be safely managed in and around the MRI suite.
During the meeting, the group reviewed how emergency situations would be handled, including fire response, patient evacuation, communication between departments and the roles of hospital staff, EMS and firefighters during an incident. The discussion also focused on ensuring that emergency responders understand which equipment and materials can safely enter restricted MRI areas.
Although the new MRI machine is still months away from installation, hospital leaders are using this time to plan carefully, identify potential risks and establish clear protocols before the service becomes operational.
“Preparing ahead of time allows our teams to work through different scenarios and make sure everyone understands their role,” said Tyler Hafen, Imaging Department Manager. “Patient safety is always the priority, and these conversations are an important part of bringing MRI services directly to our community.”
The new in-house MRI will strengthen Kane County Hospital’s existing MRI services by replacing the current mobile unit with a permanent system, improving access, efficiency and the overall patient experience.
Kane County Hospital will continue training, facility preparation and safety planning leading up to the anticipated summer 2027 launch.
