Managed radiology and oncology services provider Akumin has deployed its first two Akumin AXIS Expandable Patient Solutions suites in partnership with Baptist Memorial Hospital-DeSoto and the Bon Secours Harbour View Medical Center.

Equipped with PET/CT imaging technology, each unit aims to enhance patient and staff experiences, boost workflows, and widen access to care within these communities.

According to Akumin, its AXIS solution is designed to transform the mobile radiology industry. This expandable imaging solution is claimed to provide the spacious, modern feel of a permanent building while maintaining the advantages of relocatability.

Akumin introduced this solution at RSNA 2024, presenting it as a new class of care delivery for hospitals and health systems.

The Akumin AXIS PET/CT configuration includes three uptake rooms, allowing for more than double the patient capacity compared to a standard mobile trailer. This efficiency addresses the growing demand for imaging services.

According to the company, the deployment of the first two Akumin AXIS suites is part of its strategy to expand access to care.

Akumin CEO Henry Howe said: “Akumin AXIS was designed based on direct feedback from our hospital partners, who face the challenges of high construction costs, limited capital, and growing patient demand.

“By offering a fully equipped solution that can be operational in as little as 60 days, Akumin AXIS is already being recognised as a revolutionary model for expanding access to advanced imaging services.

“In the coming weeks, we will launch an Akumin AXIS model equipped with LINAC [Linear Accelerator] technology for targeted cancer treatment, followed by a model with 1.5T MRI capabilities in the near future.”

A part of Baptist Memorial Health Care, Baptist Memorial Hospital-DeSoto is a 339-bed acute care hospital catering to Southaven, Mississippi, and the nearby regions.

The hospital provides a range of services, including surgical, diagnostic, heart, neurology, cancer care, emergency, women’s services, and inpatient rehabilitation. The site expanded its emergency department in 2018 and opened a new physician office building in July 2022.

A part of Bon Secours – Hampton Roads, Bon Secours Harbour View Medical Center is claimed to be the region’s first “smart hospital,” designed to boost “safety, communication, and comfort” via integrated smart technology.

Established this year, the medical centre expands on the Harbour View Emergency Department with additional operating rooms and inpatient facilities, as well as offers a range of surgical services.

Akumin manages a network of fixed-site radiology centres as well as mobile imaging and oncology solutions, featuring the Akumin AXIS Expandable Patient Solutions. The company collaborates with more than 1,000 hospitals and physician groups.