Tamworth patients can now have prostate and neuroendocrine imaging close to home, after an upgrade to the city’s PET scanner.
A PET scanner is a nuclear imaging test that uses a tracer to diagnose a variety of conditions, including cancers, heart conditions, and brain conditions. Health is now producing a special diagnostic substance that makes prostate and neuroendocrine imaging possible in Tamworth.
The scanner was first introduced after significant local advocacy. In April 2023, it was announced that Tamworth would get a $2 million PET scanner, with patients in the district until then travelling to Newcastle for scans. Since it was installed in 2024, more than 1,000 patients have used it.
Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said he had been campaigning with the community to upgrade the scanner, and was grateful for the extended service.
“PET Scanners are an essential diagnostic tool for doctors, helping diagnose and treat a range of health conditions, including cancer making it an essential tool to treat patients locally,” said Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson.
With prostate and neuroendocrine imaging now available, Mr Anderson said even more patients would be able to be treated locally.
“Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men. Around 1 in 6 men are likely to suffer from the condition in their life,” he said.
Access to diagnostic equipment is still a challenge across the New England. Most of the region remains significantly under-serviced when it comes to access to public diagnostics, with no other town in the New England having an MRI machine or PET Scanner within the hospital.
“Having access to the tools and treatment options locally is critical so that local men do not have to travel to access treatment,” he said.
“That’s why I was pushing to have the capability to diagnose prostate cancer in Tamworth, and I’m thankful that our community’s voice has been heard.”
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