PET-CT technolgy to make difference

Dunedin’s first permanent PET-CT scanner was rolled out yesterday at a special opening at Pacific...
Dunedin’s first permanent PET-CT scanner was rolled out yesterday at a special opening at Pacific Radiology. Checking it out is managing radiologist Dr Jacquie Copland (left), senior nuclear medicine technologist Jenine Horn-Lodewyk and charge nuclear medicine technologist Denis Hely. PHOTO: PETER MCINTOSH
Patients across the South are set to benefit from a major expansion of diagnostic imaging services now that PET-CT technology is permanently based in the region for the first time at Pacific Radiology’s new Dunedin Central clinic.

Pacific Radiology Group (PRG) officially opened its purpose-built clinic yesterday at an event attended by Dunedin Mayor Sophie Barker, local councillors and iwi representatives.

Ms Barker said the opening of the clinic represented an important investment in health infrastructure for the city and surrounding areas.

‘‘The opening of this clinic is an important investment in health infrastructure for Dunedin and the wider Otago and Southland region.

‘‘Improving access to specialised diagnostic services closer to home makes a real difference for patients and their whānau and strengthens Dunedin’s role as a regional centre for healthcare.’’

The clinic has been developed in partnership with the landlord, Hāpai Commercial Property LP.

Hāpai Commercial Property LP general manager Bevan Hames said the development reflected a long-term commitment to supporting health services that meet the needs of the community, as well as sustainability objectives driven by a five-star green rating.

‘‘We see this as an important long-term investment in health infrastructure for Dunedin.

‘‘Developments like this are about supporting essential services and creating facilities that deliver lasting value for the community.’’

PRG regional managing radiologist for Otago and Southland Dr Jacquie Copland said establishing permanent PET-CT services in Dunedin was a step forward for cancer care in the region.

‘‘PET-CT imaging plays a critical role in cancer diagnosis and treatment planning, and until now patients in Otago and Southland have often needed to travel long distances to access this level of care.

‘‘Providing these services locally on a permanent basis will make a real difference for patients and their whānau.’’

The Dunedin Central clinic in Great King St also offers MRI, CT, breast-imaging, fluoroscopy, interventional procedures, ultrasound and X-ray services. — Allied Media

 

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