In January 2021 we were delighted to obtain our FibroScan machine. This device allows us to perform a non-invasive examination of the liver, which is simple, quick and painless.
FibroScans are used to measure liver stiffness, and fat content. This aids in the diagnosis and monitoring of conditions such as fibrosis, cirrhosis, and fatty liver disease (MASLD).
We have established FibroScan clinics at The James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough and Friarage Hospital in Northallerton.
Waiting times for an appointment are around five to six weeks at Middlesbrough and two weeks at Northallerton. As of October 2024 we are now also offering FibroScan appointments at Guisborough Primary Care Hospital.
Meet Emma Bennett – FibroScan technician
As the dedicated FibroScan technician for the liver team at James Cook, I play a vital role in patient care by overseeing independent clinics at multiple locations within our trust.
This initiative allows us to provide our essential services to a broader community, ensuring that patients from all areas of our catchment can easily access critical liver health assessments.
My work is focused on enhancing service needs, accessibility and convenience for our patients, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes for those we serve and with shorter wait times.
FibroScan offers an instant result enabling the patients care path to be adjusted promptly.
My role frees up the nurses and enables them to dedicate their time to patient care in both the clinic, wards, and advice line, and addressing non-clinical inquiries.
This allows the nurses to focus on providing high-quality care, attending to patients’ needs, and strengthening the patient-nurse relationship, ultimately improving overall patient outcomes.