Dunedin Hospital's New Cancer Treatment Machine Now Active

Cancer patients in the Southern region are now benefiting from a new radiation therapy machine at Dunedin Hospital. Health Minister Simeon Brown announced that the $4.3 million linear accelerator (LINAC) is fully operational.

This latest generation LINAC replaces an older machine that had reached the end of its working life. It offers highly precise radiation treatment, targeting tumours to within one millimetre. The machine delivers radiation from multiple angles, allowing for higher doses directly to tumour sites while minimizing exposure to healthy tissue.

The new system can also treat multiple tumours simultaneously, reducing overall treatment times. It supports advanced clinical approaches that were previously not possible with older equipment.

In addition to enhancing patient care, the LINAC promotes ongoing clinical innovation and workforce development. Staff now have opportunities to train and work with the latest radiation therapy technology.

Originally reported by Beehive.govt.nz - The official website of the New Zealand Government.