Residents of southeastern North Carolina who need an MRI can now relax, knowing EmergeOrtho – Coastal Region’s next-generation system provides fast, affordable, comfortable scans for all ages and body types.
A demonstration of an MRI scan in the OASIS Velocity Open MRI scanner, accompanied by a caregiver.
Since April 2025, EmergeOrtho – Coastal Region has offered patients a next-generation, open MRI system that provides a much more comfortable experience for all patients, especially those who have claustrophobia. The open design also accommodates patients weighing up to 660 pounds and provides space for a parent, guardian or caregiver to sit with or assist the patient, ensuring maximum comfort for individuals of all ages and body types. A warm blanket and headphones with music are also provided to increase the comfort levels of patients.
The OASIS Velocity Open MRI from FUJIFILM Healthcare Americas Corporation is available at EmergeOrtho’s Porters Neck location and is the only true open MRI available in four surrounding counties.
Attendees greet each other outside the EmergeOrtho Open MRI Suite ribbon cutting event in Porters Neck.
Celebrating A Regional Resource
Underscoring the significance of the acquisition for the entire Coastal Region, a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce was held in May 2025, in Porters Neck.
“EmergeOrtho’s investment in the OASIS Velocity Open MRI technology is a significant step forward for our community,” said Kristin Peoples, Director of Member Relations and Engagement for the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce.
Pictured left to right: Raymond J. Jolly, PA-C, Robert B. O’Malley, DPM, Mark D. Foster, MD, Zachary Welch, Executive Director of EmergeOrtho – Coastal Region, and Shawn B. Hocker, MD.
The Most Advanced Imaging for Musculoskeletal Care
With the OASIS Velocity Open MRI scanner, EmergeOrtho – Coastal Region can perform all orthopedic-related scans, as well as brain, carotids, and neurological imaging. Deemed the most appropriate technology for musculoskeletal care, the system features advanced magnet design, and its imaging capabilities provide crisp, high-resolution images for enhanced accuracy. The SoftSound gradient technology reduces acoustic noise without compromising scanning capability.
Five EmergeOrtho radiologic technicians lie down inside the OASIS Velocity Open MRI scanner to showcase the space provided by the panoramic bore.
Because EmergeOrtho can now offer patients an imaging option with an unobstructed view, more patients are going to have the advanced diagnostic testing they need. Additionally, because it reduces scan times, it enables providers to better serve the community by seeing more patients.
“This is a cutting-edge imaging solution that reflects our commitment to patient-centered, accessible and affordable care,” said Shawn B. Hocker, MD, of EmergeOrtho. “However, it isn’t just about innovation; it’s about people. It’s about ensuring all patients receive the care they seek, without barriers. With this new scanner, the most advanced care is now closer to home, more convenient, more compassionate, and more inviting.”
Shawn B. Hocker, MD, speaking at the EmergeOrtho Open MRI Suite ribbon cutting.
“At EmergeOrtho, our goal is to deliver the highest quality care to the community at an affordable price for patients,” said Stephanie Rackley, Imaging Manager at EmergeOrtho – Coastal Region. “We now have three MRI machines of different types, and our newest, the OASIS Velocity Open MRI, is ideal for patients in pain or those who struggle with small, enclosed spaces or need the comfort of having a parent, guardian or caregiver beside them. It’s gratifying to know that patients in our region no longer have to travel a good distance to find an open MRI. Now they’ll be able to get the high-quality scan they need at the time they need it—easily, comfortably, cost-effectively, and without having to leave their own backyard.”
Pictured from left to right: Stephanie Rackley, RT(R), Imaging Manager, Zachary Welch, Executive Director of EmergeOrtho – Coastal Region, and Trace Adams of Adams Construction, who helped construct the new Open MRI Suite.
Sharing the Technology with Outside Referrals
Beyond serving internal patients, the MRI Imaging Program at EmergeOrtho – Coastal Region welcomes outside referrals, providing these innovative services to the wider community and significantly enhancing access to quality imaging services at lower costs across southeastern North Carolina.
To schedule an MRI, physicians’ offices and patients can contact EmergeOrtho – Coastal Region at (910) 332-3800.
