Diagnostic imaging services at Canberra Hospital have been given a significant boost following the installation of three new nuclear medicine machines.
Nuclear medicine machines are used to create detailed images of internal organs as well as analyse organ function. The new machines include a PET/CT scanner, SPECT/CT scanner and Gamma Camera.
Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said the ACT Government's significant investment into this state-of-the-art technology and supporting infrastructure will support more reliable, effective and timely health care for a growing local and regional population.
"While these sophisticated machines all have slightly different functions in the way they provide quality diagnostic services, the common denominator is that scanning times are significantly faster, lower volumes of tracing dye can be used, and the images are of a much higher quality and clarity which improves diagnostics immeasurably," Minister Stephen-Smith said.
"It also means the health service can minimise the need for additional scans because the images are so clear, repeat imaging or other scans and tests may not be required.
"The flow on effects of faster scan times also means improved patient flow through emergency departments, inpatient and outpatient services, as well as oncology services for patients who are being treated for cancer."
In addition to their advanced diagnostics services, the new machines and the nuclear medicine suites also contribute to a more comfortable patient experience.
"These machines have different design features that make it more comfortable during scans and have more manoeuvrability to adapt to different heights. This makes it easier for patients with mobility issues and children to get on and off the scanners," Minister Stephen-Smith said.
"One of the nuclear medicine suites also features custom wraparound artwork that puts adults and children a little more at ease as part of the patient experience.
"Combined with the delivery of medical imaging services at Weston Creek Community Centre last year and the suite of new medical imaging facilities and equipment in the soon-to-be-opened Critical Services Building, the ACT Government is continuing to invest in the latest technology to support our great clinicians in the treatment and care they provide to the community."
The three nuclear medicine machines are part of the $15.8 million 'More Public Medical Imaging Services at Canberra Hospital' project in the ACT Infrastructure Plan, which also includes the CT3, MRI and Fluoroscopy upgrades.
Quotes attributable to Mr Ross Bevan, Manager of Nuclear Medicine and PET, Canberra Health Services:
"The Nuclear Medicine team have been waiting excitedly for the new scanners to be installed. With a full suite of the latest scanners and technology, our patients will have their scans completed faster on equipment that is equal to the best available across Australia.
"Having the latest nuclear medicine technology can also be an appealing proposition for both retaining and attracting highly skilled nuclear medicine scientists to our health service.
"We want to keep building up the ACT's reputation as a destination of choice for high quality diagnostic medical imaging, research and treatment, and these new machines to only add to that goal."
