PET/CT scans delivered in Rockhampton
· The Crisafulli Government is delivering for Central Queenslanders with access to a PET/CT scanner in Rockhampton, thanks to a new agreement with I-MED Radiology.
· This arrangement eliminates the need for patients to travel outside the region for this crucial service.
· Public patients will be able to access these important diagnostic tests at no cost.
The Crisafulli Government has partnered with radiology provider I-MED in Rockhampton to provide publicly funded PET/CT scans to Central Queensland Health patients.
This service is now provided at the Mater Hospital building in Rockhampton.
In the past, Central Queenslanders have had to travel to locations including Brisbane, Mackay, or Bundaberg to access PET/CT scans as part of their cancer journey.
Assistant Minister for Mental Health, Alcohol and Drug Treatment, Seniors and Families, and Central Queensland, and Member for Rockhampton Donna Kirkland has congratulated I-MED for delivering this service for the community and said this is a game-changer for Central Queenslanders.
“Having access to crucial PET/CT scans in Central Queensland has been on our radar for some time, and to be able to partner with I-MED in Rockhampton means our local patients no longer need to travel outside the region,” Ms Kirkland said.
“These scans are important for diagnosing serious issues such as cancer, heart problems, and brain conditions, and it is far preferable to have access to this service in the local area.”
The former government allocated $7.8 million for a PET/CT scanner to be delivered at the Rockhampton Hospital by 2027. However, once again, Labor failed to properly plan and fund the project.
Investigations of possible locations for a PET/CT scanner at the hospital revealed that the project would blow out to more than $25 million, almost $20 million more than originally promised.
“After a decade of Labor’s neglect for healthcare in Rockhampton, the Crisafulli Government has collaborated with the private sector to provide free PET/CT scans for public patients,” Ms Kirkland said.
Central Queensland Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Lisa Blackler is delighted that this service is now provided locally, saving Central Queenslanders from travelling outside the region.
“We support our patients to travel when needed to access specialist services, but it is far preferable to provide as many services as close to home as possible.
“This new service will save our patients valuable time, travel expense, and the stress of being away from loved ones.”
Public referrals and use of the scanner will be reviewed over the next 12 months to determine whether it is sufficient for public and private demand.