25 November 2005

Massive boost for medical imaging at Wagga Wagga

NSW Minister for Health John Hatzistergos today announced a $2 million for state-of-the-art medical imaging equipment for Wagga Wagga Base Hospital.

Making the announcement at Wagga Wagga Base Hospital today Mr Hatzistergos said the new equipment represented a major investment in the latest technology for the local community.

"This equipment, which includes a high speed CT scanner and new ultrasound machine, will mean faster diagnosis and access to treatment for people, such as cancer patients, attending the hospital," Mr Hatzistergos said.

The equipment includes:

• a new high speed 64 slice CT Scanner, the latest in diagnostic technology, which will replace the existing single slice CT scanner;
• a new ultrasound machine to prevent the need for patients to be transported off hospital grounds for important diagnostic imaging;
• a brand new screening room, which includes an elevating table, for procedures such as Barium meals, diagnosing kidney blockages and general radiology examinations.

"The high speed CT scanner will be one of the first of this model in NSW," Mr Hatzistergos said.

"We are committed to upgrading equipment and providing new technology in our facilities in rural and regional NSW," he said.

"This commitment comes after the recent announcement by the Premier Morris Iemma of $500,000 for the interim redevelopment of Wagga Wagga Base Hospital's Emergency Department.

"This measure will improve service delivery until the full hospital redevelopment is completed and will include further funding to upgrade essential sterilising equipment.

"These commitments and the further progression of planning for the redevelopment will see Wagga Wagga Base Hospital continue to provide high quality care as the pivotal regional referral health facility for South Western NSW.

For a range of health information, go online to www.health.nsw.gov.au