The new facility will provide significant benefits for cancer patients and their referring specialists. Pacific Radiology’s managing radiologist for the southern regions, Dr Greg Harkness, said the planned clinic will be designed to meet the specific requirements for the installation of the latest PET-CT scanner technology.
‘‘We expect the new clinic to be fully operational by the end of 2023,’’ he said. “We have specifically chosen a centralised site with ample parking space, providing easy access to essential advanced imaging radiology services for local patients and those travelling from across the southern regions.”
Local oncology specialist and Director of Mercy Cancer care, Dr Chris Jackson said that a PET-CT is an important tool in the management of many advanced cancers like lung cancer, melanoma, colon cancer, and increasingly in prostate cancer and a wide range of other indications.
“Pacific Radiology’s announced development is great news for patients in the southern regions who have until now had to travel to Christchurch or beyond for these important scans,’’ Dr Jackson said. ‘‘Having this close to home is a great development and one that is welcomed for the people of the south.’’
Pacific Radiology is New Zealand’s largest private radiology provider. They are renowned for their commitment and expertise in delivering world-class radiology locally, and currently provide much needed support for cancer patients requiring PET-CT imaging from their impressive Christchurch Pacific Radiology facilities.
Chief Operations Officer Dr Jeremy Sharr noted the importance of continuing to invest in leading-edge technology to best serve the needs of its communities.
“We prioritise making a difference to the health-care of our communities,’’ he said.
‘‘Introducing a second PET-CT scanner in the South Island to support our southern colleagues in providing exceptional care of cancer patients in the southern regions will contribute to better outcomes for all patients.’’
