Imo Advances Healthcare Infrastructure As LabRad Unveils 160-Slice CT Scanner

LabRad Diagnostics has recorded a major advancement in diagnostic healthcare with the unveiling of a 160-slice CT scanner during the official launch of its new and upgraded headquarters on April 12, 2026 in Owerri, Imo State capital.

The event brought together key stakeholders from government and the health sector, reflecting growing efforts to improve access to modern diagnostic services in Imo State.

In her remarks, the Medical Director of Labrad Diagnostics, Dr. Chinekwu Anyanwu, said the launch represented a commitment to improving patient care through accurate and timely diagnosis.

She stated that the facility provides a full spectrum of imaging services, including the new 160-slice CT scanner, a 1.5 Tesla MRI, ultrasound, digital X-ray, and mammography. According to her, the availability of these services in one location will improve diagnostic efficiency and clinical decision-making.

Dr. Anyanwu explained that the CT scanner delivers high-speed, high-resolution imaging that supports cardiac studies, angiography, trauma assessment, cancer detection, and whole-body scans. She added that the CT scanner has minimal radiation exposure, thereby significantly reducing the risk of developing cancer from CT scan radiation exposure by more than 90% compared to regular 16 slice or 32 slice CT scan machines.

She also introduced specialised diagnostic packages covering oncology, interventional imaging, chest and lung conditions, and vascular diseases. Additional services such as cardiac MRI, prostate imaging, and breast MRI are available to support early detection and precise diagnosis.

Representing the Deputy Governor of Imo State, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, her Principal Secretary, Mr. John Njoku, said the facility will reduce the need for patients to seek advanced investigations outside the state. He noted that improved access to diagnostic services will enhance early detection, survival, and recovery.

He added that the development aligned with the healthcare agenda of Governor Hope Uzodimma, which focuses on improving access to quality healthcare through collaboration with private sector partners.

Also speaking, the representative of Crown Healthcare Nigeria, Mr. Emmanuel Omachonu, described the partnership with LabRad Diagnostics as a long-term collaboration that began with the installation of the first 1.5 Tesla MRI in South East Nigeria in 2024.

He noted that the newly unveiled 160-slice CT scanner is the first of its kind in the region and possibly the country, adding that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to expanding access to advanced diagnostic technology.

Also present were the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Imo State chairman, Dr. Bartholomew Echeta, the President of the Association of Resident Doctors, Federal University Teaching Hospital, Owerri, Dr. Amarachi Arunsi, and the HOD, Standards and Quality Assurance for Imo State Health Insurance Agency, Dr. Iwuchukwu Patrick, who also represented the CEO, Dr. Ewelike Uchenna.