The Project
St. Mary’s needed to upgrade its MRI machine. Rather than replacing the unit entirely—a process that typically requires moving walls and using a crane to bring in new equipment—the team utilized an emerging upgrade system that allowed the existing magnet to be preserved and modernized in place.
Project Challenges
Novel Installation Process: This was only the second time this type of MRI upgrade had ever been performed. The installation team had to consult with the equipment vendor for assembly guidance.
Space Constraints: The equipment required temperature-controlled storage during staging. Finding adequate, climate-controlled space in an already space-constrained medical office building added a layer of complexity to the tight schedule.
Structural Complications: The weight of the components required careful consideration and planning with the structural engineer for movement across the elevated deck floor.
Underestimated Scope: The vendor’s initial quote for time and budget didn’t reflect the complexity of the installation. The project required more resources than originally projected.
The Solution
Cost-Effective Modernization: By preserving the existing magnet rather than replacing it, the team modernized a critical piece of imaging equipment at a fraction of the cost of a full replacement, without the disruption of a major structural demolition.
Minimized Revenue Loss: The upgrade approach resulted in a shorter downtime window compared to a full MRI replacement, directly reducing the loss of revenue from imaging services during the transition.
Adapt and Overcome: Engineering documentation was limited from the start, and new requirements continued to surface throughout construction. With active work underway, PDC Partners had to rapidly assess each new development and act quickly to protect the project schedule.
A Replicable Model: As only the second project of its kind, this installation established a repeatable standard for future MRI upgrades, which will benefit hospitals facing similar aging equipment decisions.
Standout Numbers
2 months
Time to project completion
14 years
Length of relationship with the client
