North Kent CDC’s addition of MRI technology from Philips is a UK first
North Kent Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC), which opened recently in Dartford, is the first in the UK to install the Ambition S 1.5T MRI with SmartSpeed Precise, next-generation AI-powered MRI acceleration technology from Philips. The system is said to deliver faster scans and higher image quality, improving diagnostic confidence and enabling the centre to perform more scans each day, reducing patient wait times. With the BlueSeal helium-free MRI operations, it eliminates the need for recalls, reducing operational costs and supply risks.
The centre is also among the UK’s earliest adopters of the DR 7300 C digital radiography system with Smart Collimation Thorax and AEC overlay functions, which use AI and 3D camera technology to streamline workflow, reduce examination times, minimise unnecessary x-ray exposure and enhance patient safety.
North Kent CDC also has two Philips Epiq CV cardiac ultrasound systems, supporting routine and complex cardiac diagnostics. With AI and workflow enhancements, the systems help deliver faster, more consistent cardiac imaging for the local community.
Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust chief medical officer Dr Tom Clark commented: “We’re seeing much quicker access to important diagnostic tests such as blood tests, x-rays, CT and MRI scans. The wait time for a routine MRI scan has already been cut in half, from six to three weeks.”
Lead picture: consultant radiologist Dr Leslie Chacko, Philips key account manager Barry Heathcote, operational lead CDC programme lead Nick Key, senior MRI radiographer Chris Miller, Philips project manager Derren Whitworth and MRI radiographer Moses Alanraj.
Read this report on page 11 of the December 2025 issue of RAD Magazine.
