New MRI and CT Imaging Now Available at Watsonville Community Hospital

Watsonville Community Hospital recently announced that its new MRI and CT imaging systems, funded through voter-approved Measure N, are now available for patient care. The hospital received state licensing approval for the technology on Sept. 2, clearing the way for physicians to begin using it by the end of the month.

The new equipment — a Philips Spectral CT 7500 and a Philips Ingenia Ambition 1.5T MRI — replaces aging systems that had become unreliable. These will provide key patient services on site at the hospital.

Transportation, income and insurance status can make traveling for care difficult for many Pajaro Valley residents. Patients now can receive advanced diagnostic imaging closer to home, allowing physicians to make timely treatment decisions and helping reduce the need to transfer patients elsewhere solely for imaging. The new imaging systems will support emergency, cancer, stroke, orthopedic, surgical, cardiovascular and in-patient care.

“This is exactly what Measure N was intended to fund,” said Board Chair Tony Nunez. “Because of the support of local voters, our community now has access to state-of-the-art medical technology right here at Watsonville Community Hospital. This is an investment in the health and future of the Pajaro Valley.”

When Watsonville Community Hospital returned to community ownership, it inherited aging facilities and equipment. Modern imaging quickly became a top priority — a need written directly into Measure N, the $116 million bond Pajaro Valley voters approved on March 5, 2024, with 68.26% support.

Staff from the hospital’s imaging department evaluated available systems, visited other facilities, and assessed reliability and workflow before recommending the equipment.

The Board approved the purchase in June 2025, authorizing up to $12 million for equipment, installation and construction.