Ergéa and UHL expand radiotherapy fleet with linac installation and upgrades
University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust (UHL) and vendor-independent managed equipment services provider Ergéa have celebrated the installation of a Varian Halcyon linac, marking a major advancement in radiotherapy services at the trust.
The ceremony highlighted the collaboration of both teams, whose commitment has driven major improvements in efficiency, quality and accessibility of radiotherapy in Leicestershire and Rutland. Attendees included UHL chief operating officer Jon Melbourne, associate director of operations – cancer Suzanne Nancarrow and general manager medical physics Mark Norton, along with members of the clinical teams and those involved with the provision of the bunker.
Melbourne said: “We are incredibly proud of the radiotherapy services we provide and the dedication of our teams. We would also like to express our thanks to Ergéa for its flexibility and support throughout the programme; the partnership has been crucial to the success of this project.”
The Halcyon equipment was installed in four months and is currently undergoing commissioning, meeting the trust’s deadlines without delay.
Ergéa UK has partnered with UHL since 2002, supporting it in delivering innovative healthcare by maintaining and upgrading diagnostic imaging, cardiology and radiotherapy equipment. Last year a comprehensive upgrade of UHL’s radiotherapy fleet was undertaken and all four Varian TrueBeam linacs were modernised. The upgraded and expanded fleet will increase patient throughput. It is expected to deliver a 25 per cent increase in treatment capacity.
UHL head of radiotherapy Suzanne Jordan commented: “The new machine gives us the opportunity to increase capacity, reduce waiting times and ensure that more patients receive timely and effective radiotherapy treatment. This state-of-the-art machine brings with it new technology to enhance the care we provide to our patients and it is quicker and quieter.”
Ergéa UK executive vice president and director of strategic relationships John Muolo added: “As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the UHL and Ergéa partnership will continue to be impactful in ensuring the highest standard of care to patients while maintaining operational efficiency and sustainability.”
Lead picture: head of radiotherapy physics at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust Jenny Marsden cuts the ribbon to mark the official opening of the new linac.
Read this report on the front page of the April 2025 issue of RAD Magazine.
