I am so pleased that one of the most advanced scanners in the world is allowing doctors and nurses on Cocos (Keeling) Islands (CKI) to deliver safer and better health care to you, and improve patient outcomes.
Yesterday I visited the health clinic on Home Island and viewed the new ultrasound scanning device, funded by the Australian Government, which will enable doctors to diagnose problems and disease earlier on island.
This includes implementing treatment sooner, and saving patients from having to seek diagnosis and treatment in Perth.
The ultrasound features the latest modern medical imaging technology with ultra-high resolution and advanced diagnostic software tools, and replaces its predecessor model after almost ten years in service.
The new machine has full cardiac capability and will enable improved musculoskeletal examinations and vascular imaging.
Local medical staff will use images from the new machine to consult with off island specialists and to assist establishment of telehealth services.
This latest investment brings the Indian Ocean Territories Health Service ultrasound scanning service on CKI up to date with those used within tertiary hospitals and private medical imaging practices across Western Australia (WA) and Australia.
The Australian Government continues to deliver high quality community services through the Indian Ocean Territories Administration (IOTA), including providing $17 million to fund the Indian Ocean Territories Health Service in 2018-19.
Other recent investments in the Health Service on CKI include new sterilisers ($26,000), blood fridges ($19,000), bladder scanner ($10,000) as well as almost $85,000 in new dental equipment.
The Australian Government recognises community health and wellbeing is a high priority for the CKI community as outlined in the Our Cocos (Keeling) Islands 2030 Strategic Plan.
The Hon Nola Marino, Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Territories
