New X-ray computer system problems continue in Kent

Patients are still experiencing delays in getting results for X-rays and scans across Kent because of problems with a computer system launched last month.

A dedicated phone line which was established to deal with the problem received 2,000 calls in the past week.

East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust said it is trying to find a solution with GE Healthcare, which provides the technology.

At present, patients are having to wait up to six weeks for results.

The new computer system is intended to book patients in for scans and then create reports from the scans for doctors to study.

'Quite unacceptable'

Simon Moores, of Thanet, said he was told of the delay after a routine hip X-ray.

He said: "I was visiting every week and I was told there was a problem with the scanning software and there could be a delay of up to six weeks.

"I thought that was really quite unacceptable."

The problems have also impacted upon expectant mothers, with midwives claiming some women had missed their 12-week scans as a result.

Chief executive of the trust, Stuart Bain, said he would be talking to GE Healthcare about its "contractual position".

He said: "It think you can take it from me that we are very disappointed with what has gone on from 1 July right through to now in August.

"We're not prepared to see it go one for very much longer."

A GE Healthcare spokesman said: "GE Healthcare is working very closely with the Kent and Medway NHS Trusts to resolve their issues with the newly-installed radiology information system.

"We know how important these diagnostic tests are, together with the need for prompt clinical analysis and communication of results to patients.

"We are doing everything we can to ensure that the issues are resolved in a timely manner."