The Territory Government is delivering better access to quality healthcare for Territorians with a new onsite CT scanner in operation at Katherine Hospital.

The Government contributed $4 million to the project which gives Katherine Hospital patients access to state-of-the-art medical imaging including CT scanning.

In the past patients had to be escorted to an external provider in town.

Unlike other forms of medical imaging, the CT scanner can make an image of every type of body structure at once, including bone, blood vessels and soft tissue. It is used as a diagnostic tool to diagnose head injuries, strokes, cancers and blood clots.

A new room was constructed at Katherine Hospital to accommodate the scanner.

The tender to construct, fit out and deliver the new medical imaging service was awarded to Katherine Diagnostic Imaging.

Local Company Atkin Building began construction works in October 2018 and the CT scanner began operating last week.

Quotes from Health Minister, Natasha Fyles:

“The Northern Territory Government has invested $4 million over the life of the project. This includes construction and fit out of an area within the Katherine Hospital, installation of the CT scanner and delivery of service.

"Having a CT scanner on the hospital campus will enable us to better meet demand and continue to provide safe and quality care to our patients.”

Quotes from Member for Katherine, Sandra Nelson:

“This service means the patients won’t have the added stress of having to leave the hospital premises for scans.

“Katherine Hospital can now boast a state-of-the-art medical imaging service with the CT scanner vital for the diagnosis of serious injury and cancer.”

Media contact: Rob Cross 0439 778 095