THE Ripley satellite hospital has taken significant pressure off Ipswich Hospital and this is only likely to increase with the introduction of a new CT scanner at the facility.
In the last quarter, there has been a 44.9 per cent decrease in category five and 18.5 per cent drop in category four presentations at Ipswich Hospital, with the Ripley Satellite Hospital helping to ease pressure on the busy emergency department.
The installation of a new state-of-the art CT scanner is already providing Ipswich patients with greater access to diagnostics and monitoring of their health conditions, and since its introduction in mid-April more than 430 scans have been delivered.
The CT scanner is the third for West Moreton Health, and will support respiratory health, allied health, and other outpatient clinics at Ripley and Ipswich.
The Ripley scanner is expected to boost capacity within the region, performing around 14,000 CT scans annually.
“It’s fantastic to see the new CT scanner at Ripley Satellite Hospital is already up and running, adding additional capacity to services in the region,” Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services Shannon Fentiman said.
“We know that Ipswich is one of the fastest-growing regions, and our government is investing in the community’s healthcare needs to ensure we can keep up with the demand.
“It’s fantastic to hear almost 450 people have received the scans they need, close to home, without having to travel longer distances,” said Member for Jordan Charis Mullen.
West Moreton Health Service Board chair Sue Scheinpflug said the new scanner was an invaluable resource for the region.
“We’re thrilled to witness the new CT scanner in action at Ripley Satellite Hospital,” she said.
“Not only does the scanner provide a much-needed health service, it offers up more opportunities for graduates to train in medical imaging and grow our workforce in that area.
“This equipment is a testament to the commitment of our healthcare professionals to adapt and innovate to meet the evolving needs of the community.”
