Kona gets large MRI machine

KAILUA-KONA — Kona Community Hospital has a new magnetic response imaging machine.

West Hawai‘i Today reported Wednesday the machine allows obese patients to get MRIs. The machine’s 2.3-foot opening also allows MRIs for those with claustrophobia.

It’s the same model as the one used at The Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu and has a bore opening of nearly 2.3 feet in diameter.

Hospital officials say the cost of renovating the MRI suite, buying the machine and a six-year service contract is $2.5 million.