Three new nuclear medicine machines have been installed at Canberra Hospital.

Nuclear medicine machines create detailed images of internal organs and analyse organ function. The new machines include a PET/CT scanner, SPECT/CT scanner, and Gamma Camera.

“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,” health minister Rachel 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.”

The new machines and the nuclear medicine suites also make patients more comfortable, Ms Stephen-Smith said.

“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.

“One of the nuclear medicine suites also features custom wraparound artwork that puts adults and children a little more at ease.”

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.

“The Nuclear Medicine team have been waiting excitedly for the new scanners to be installed,” Ross Bevan, Canberra Health Services’ manager of nuclear medicine and PET, said.

“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.”