NDP request to Health Minister to grant permission for a Sudbury PET scanner met with more delays

This morning in the legislature, NDP MPP for Nickel Belt France Gélinas called on the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care to make mobile positron emission topography (PET) scans available in Sudbury. 

“Ontarians living in the North Eastern region of the province still do not have access to this technology without travelling long distances. Mobile pet scans are becoming more frequently used in Ontario, but we need your permission before it can come to Northeastern Ontario.”

“When will the Minister agree to let a mobile PET scanner come to Health Sciences North in Sudbury to serve patients living in the North East?” Gélinas asked.

PET scans are a three-dimensional imaging technology that aid in diagnosing cancers and heart problems. Sam Bruno, who lost his battle with cancer at 55, was a strong advocate for bringing a PET scan to the Sudbury region. Tonight, hundreds of people will join the family and friends of Sam Bruno for their sixth annual fundraising gala to help secure access to the lifesaving technology.

“The Sam Bruno family and friends are hosting their sixth annual gala on Thursday night to raise money for a permanent PET scan in Sudbury and to bring a mobile PET scanner in the region,” said Gélinas. “Minister, people from Northeastern Ontario deserve equitable access.”

“The mobile PET scanner will not cost Heath Sciences North a penny. It will not add to the provincial budget expenses, but it will bring fairness and equitable access to this technology,” said Gélinas. “The people of the North East are ready, Health Sciences North is ready, mobile PET scanners are ready.”

“So, Minister, after making us wait for six years, do the right thing – grant permission for a mobile PET scanner to come to Sudbury,” Gélinas said.