The recent upgrades to Royal University Hospital’s busiest X-ray suites are transforming patient care, streamlining diagnosis, and ensuring faster treatment for some of Saskatchewan’s most critically ill and injured patients.
Thanks to a $1 million donation from BHP last year, RUH’s General X-ray Department has transitioned from outdated cassette-based processes to state-of-the-art digital imaging technology. “It is night and day compared to the old equipment,” says Cheryl Sakowski, Manager of Medical Imaging. “With faster processing, our radiologists can make quicker, more accurate diagnoses — which means faster treatment for our patients.”
Each year, RUH performs more than 81,000 exams, with X-rays often being the first critical step in diagnosis and care planning. With the new technology, patients experience shorter wait times and improved outcomes. “We’re able to see so many more patients each day,” explains Julie Barilla, X-ray Core Supervisor in Medical Imaging. “Less time in the waiting room and less time under radiation exposure—it’s a win-win for patients and staff alike.”
The enhancements go beyond imaging technology. The newly renovated suite is now a brighter, more modern, and safer environment for both patients and staff. “The room was very dark and outdated,” says Julie. “Now, with new lighting, ceilings, shelving, and infection-control features like hands-free sinks, it’s a much happier, safer space to work in.” Future upgrades, including improved air exchangers, will further enhance safety protocols, especially for airborne precaution patients.
Before these improvements, the aging equipment posed significant challenges. Frequent breakdowns—sometimes as often as once a week—forced room closures, delaying critical care. “When you’re the province’s trauma center, stroke center, and adjacent to the cancer clinic, you simply can’t afford that kind of downtime,” Cheryl notes. “BHP’s support was essential. Without them, we would still be struggling with failing technology.”
In recognition of their generosity, the newly modernized area has been named the BHP Medical Imaging Centre. “We feel privileged,” says Cheryl. “It’s amazing to see BHP’s name there and know they believed in supporting the best possible care for Saskatchewan patients.”
For critically ill patients, the difference is profound. “Take our ICU patients, for example,” says Julie. “Getting a high-quality image quickly can mean life-saving treatment minutes sooner. With the new technology, we can image patients faster and get them back to intensive care where they need to be.”
Thanks to the support of partners like BHP and donors from across the province, Royal University Hospital remains at the forefront of health care—leveraging cutting-edge technology, leading research, and specialized expertise to deliver world-class care right here at home. Every donation, no matter the size, helps keep RUH moving forward as Saskatchewan’s largest clinical, teaching, and research hospital — ensuring that when it matters most, you and your loved ones are in the most capable hands.
Read the full 2024–2025 Annual Gratitude Report.
