Health Minister Simeon Brown said the upgraded $994,000 fluoroscopy unit would deliver clearer images at lower radiation doses, helping clinicians make faster and more accurate diagnoses while improving safety for patients and staff.
Fluoroscopy allows clinicians to observe movement inside the body and guide procedures with greater precision.
The new unit replaces older technology and is expected to expand the range and efficiency of imaging services available locally.
The system will support general X-rays as well as more specialised procedures, including swallowing studies, peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) line insertions, and other fluoroscopy-guided interventions.
More than 400 PICC lines are inserted at Southland Hospital each year for patients requiring ongoing intravenous treatments such as chemotherapy, long-term antibiotics, or nutritional support.
The unit is also dual-purpose, functioning as both a fluoroscopy suite and a general X-ray room, which is expected to ease pressure on imaging services and reduce wait times.
Mr Brown said improving access to timely diagnostic imaging was key to meeting targets for faster specialist assessments and elective treatments.
‘‘Timely imaging plays a vital role in the patient journey — enabling earlier diagnosis and faster treatment decisions,’’ he said.
The investment would also support staff training and help ensure local clinicians are working with modern technology, while allowing patients to receive care closer to home. — Allied Media
