Patients in the Sutherland Shire will now be able to access MRI services closer to home thanks to the NSW Government’s $3 billion Jobs and Infrastructure Acceleration Fund.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said $7 million has been made available to purchase the new medical technology and undertake the associated building works for Sutherland Hospital.

“Each year, around 800 inpatients at Sutherland Hospital need MRI services and have to be transferred to St George Hospital or referred to private providers for scans,” Mr Hazzard said.

“Thanks to the efforts of Mark Speakman, Eleni Petinos, Lee Evans and Melanie Gibbons, patients will soon be able to access onsite MRI services, ensuring less travel and faster care.”

Member for Cronulla Mark Speakman has welcomed the news saying the investment is in addition to the $81.5 million to redevelop Sutherland Hospital’s Operating Theatre Complex.

“Residents of the Shire have been calling out for an MRI so this is a great outcome for patients, carers and health staff and the next step is to get a MRI licence,” Mr Speakman said.

The Federal Government is responsible for licensing of the MRI and if a full licence is granted, it will attract a Medicare rebate on all MRI services listed on the Medicare Benefit Schedule.

Member for Miranda, Eleni Petinos said a new MRI in addition to the Hospital’s new Operating Theatre Complex will support the health needs of patients in the Shire well into the future.

“More than 5,000 residents signed a petition seeking an MRI and their support has paid off. Both projects are expected to be delivered within this term of Government,” Ms Petinos said.

Member for Heathcote Lee Evans and Holsworthy MP, Melanie Gibbons also welcomed news of the onsite MRI, saying it can help reduce the length of time patients are in hospital. The theatre upgrade will provide more operating and procedures rooms, surgical short stay and recovery spaces, more staff amenities and a Central Sterilising Services Department.

For more details on the redevelopment visit South Eastern Sydney Local Health District - Operating Theatre Upgrade.