Medical scanners take down the roof

The delivery of three of the world’s most sophisticated medical scanners has the potential to make Queensland a world leader in clinical imaging research, part of the State Government’s strong plan for a brighter future.

Science Minister Ian Walker said the $12 million scanners, which were craned through the opened roof of the Herston Imaging Research Facility, would improve the diagnosis and treatment of Queenslanders.

“The delivery of these cutting-edge scanners marks another important milestone as part of the Government’s election promise to revitalise frontline health services for Queensland families,” Mr Walker said.

“We’ve stayed on track to achieve what needed to be done to give all Queensland families better health, and buying the best equipment was part of that strong plan.

“These scanners are so powerful, they will revolutionise research into the treatment of cancer, dementia and mental illness.”

Mr Walker said the establishment of the Herston Imaging Research Facility in 2012 was made possible by an innovative partnership between the State, Commonwealth, and private sector.

“The facility confirms Herston as a major medical research centre, with the University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research, the QIMR Berghofer Institute of Medical Research, the Queensland University of Technology and the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital all now located within the same precinct,” he said.

“This concentration of highly educated, skilled researchers and clinicians represents an enormous wealth of knowledge.

“It also puts Queensland at the forefront of medical research in Australia.”

Mr Walker said the Queensland Government provided $3 million to help establish the imaging facility.

“Combined with $9 million from the Commonwealth, industry and partner contributions, the funding has been used to buy the three scanners from Siemens,” he said.

[ENDS] 15 June 2014

Media Contact: Monica Rostron 0409 126 332