At the heart of Bayview Urgent Care’s technological offerings is a complete suite of diagnostic imaging equipment on par with international medical standards. The facility houses digital X-ray systems, a CT scanner, fluoroscopy equipment, 3D mammography technology, and ultrasound units, ensuring that virtually any diagnostic imaging need can be met on-site.
“We have all modalities able to scan the body at any time,” explains Andrianna Gonzales, Medical Engineer Manager, who played an integral role in sourcing and installing the advanced equipment. “This allows patients to fully utilise diagnostic imaging capabilities without having to visit multiple locations.”
The facility’s CT scanner is a Revolution Maxima 64-slice which represents a significant advancement in diagnostic capabilities for Barbados. This sophisticated technology provides both 2D and 3D imaging of the entire body, offering detailed views of structural elements, bone composition, and soft tissues that enable radiologists to identify tumours and other abnormalities with unprecedented clarity.
Beyond standard imaging, Bayview Urgent Care has expanded into cardiac studies, including calcium scoring procedures that measure calcium buildup in the heart and arteries. The CT system can image any part of the body including the lungs, brain, pelvis, bones, joints and abdomen, with scan times that are notably shorter than traditional MRI examinations.
This machine is also capable of using contrast agents to enhance visibility and is particularly useful in cancer tracking to determine the size and spread (staging), guide biopsies and monitor the effectiveness of treatment.
Perhaps one of the most impressive technological additions is the state-of-the-art mammography unit, which incorporates the latest in artificial intelligence technology. Designed by women engineers specifically with women’s comfort and safety in mind, this equipment delivers minimal radiation exposure while producing exceptionally clear and accurate images.
The mammography system’s AI-powered software enables precise tissue reconstruction without overexposing patients, significantly reducing both examination time and discomfort. The technology supports 3D mammography examinations, creating detailed reconstructions of breast tissue that provide doctors with much clearer visualization of lumps or abnormalities compared to traditional 2D imaging.
“This unit is designed for a woman’s comfort,” Gonzales notes. “It’s a great turning point for mammography exams.” The facility is proud to house one of only two such advanced units on the island.
Bayview Urgent Care distinguishes itself as one of the few facilities offering fluoroscopic studies in Barbados. This dynamic imaging technology provides real-time, moving X-ray images that allow medical professionals to observe live bodily functions and processes.
The facility’s ultrasound technology utilizes echo-based sound waves to create detailed images without ionizing radiation, providing a safe alternative for various diagnostic needs. Combined with the existing MRI unit, patients have access to multiple non-radiation imaging options.
The technological investment at Bayview Urgent Care is just the beginning of what is to come. By next year, the facility will add a central sterilization department designed to serve not only the urgent care center but also the existing Bayview Hospital and other clinics throughout Barbados. Additionally, plans include adding a fourth operating theater to complement the three existing surgical suites.
The comprehensive equipment roster includes all necessary tools for immediate diagnosis and treatment, from diagnostic monitors and central stations to crash carts and emergency equipment. The on-site Bayview Lab provides rapid blood work and other testing capabilities, ensuring that patients can receive complete diagnostic workups without delays or referrals to external facilities.
“When we designed it, it was with the plan to be able to have everything whether it’s surgery, lab testing, or diagnostic imaging,” Gonzales explains. The facility’s technological capabilities meet international standards, providing both locals and visitors with confidence that their medical needs can be addressed with world-class equipment and expertise.
Bayview Urgent Care represents more than just a medical facility; it’s a testament to Barbados’ commitment to advancing its healthcare infrastructure. By consolidating advanced diagnostic imaging, laboratory services, and emergency care capabilities in one location, the facility eliminates the traditional barriers that often delay diagnosis and treatment.
The investment in cutting-edge technology, combined with comprehensive staff training and support from equipment manufacturers, positions Bayview Urgent Care as a cornerstone of the island’s evolving medical landscape. For patients, this means faster diagnoses, reduced travel between facilities, and access to the same level of medical technology found in major international medical centers.
As Barbados continues to develop its reputation as a medical tourism destination, facilities like Bayview Urgent Care demonstrate the island’s capacity to deliver world-class healthcare that meets the needs of both its residents and the growing number of visitors seeking quality medical care in the Caribbean.