Pet Scans now in Tamworth

PET SCAN WIN FOR LOCAL PATIENTS

Tamworth’s Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scanner has now been upgraded to allow local patients to receive diagnostic prostate and Neuroendocrine imaging closer to home.

A PET scanner is a nuclear imaging test that uses a tracer to diagnose a variety of conditions including cancers, heart and brain conditions. Health is now producing a special diagnostic substance that enables prostate and Neuroendocrine imaging in Tamworth. Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said he had been campaigning with the community to upgrade the PET Scan 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,” Mr Anderson said.

Since it was installed in 2024, more than 1,000 patients have used the scanner. Now with the introduction of prostate and Neuroendocrine imaging, Mr Anderson says even more patients will 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,” Mr Anderson added. “Having access to the tools and treatment options locally is critical so that local men do not have to travel to access treatment. 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.”