Cairns radiography initiative seeks funding amid critical delays in breast cancer diagnostics

Stakeholders are seeking a $27.5m bipartisan commitment ahead of the federal election so training in medical imaging and radiography can be offered in Cairns.

Cairns radiography initiative seeks funding amid critical delays in breast cancer diagnostics. Picture: Colyn Huber

Stakeholders are seeking a $27.5m bipartisan commitment ahead of the federal election so training in medical imaging and radiography can be offered in Cairns.

If they are successful, a Bachelor of Medical Imaging will be available at CQUniversity by 2026 which is expected to address workforce shortages in the long term.

It comes after the Cairns Post’s Critical Condition campaign successfully reinstated a lost diagnostic breast cancer service with radiology clinics struggling to fill positions and

attract new recruits.

Professor Nick Klomp, CQUniversity Vice-Chancellor and President. Picture: Contributed

CQUniversity Vice-Chancellor and president professor Nick Klomp said medical imaging services in Far North Queensland were under significant pressure due to workforce shortages.

“With a $27.5m commitment from an incoming government, we can launch the Bachelor of Medical Imaging in Cairns by 2026 through a partnership with Queensland X-Ray,” he said.

The funding is crucial for expanding the university’s Cairns campus by adding an additional wing dedicated to medical imaging teaching spaces, Professor Klomp said.

“Our engagement with industry highlights that workforce shortages in medical imaging are impacting healthcare delivery across the region,” he said.

Cairns radiography initiative seeks funding amid critical delays in breast cancer diagnostics. Picture: Colyn Huber

The university has a history of being dedicated to collaborating with local industries to address community needs, ensuring students are equipped to stay and work in the region after graduation.

Professor Klomp added CQUniversity had a strong track record in tackling community and industry challenges but stressed the need for federal support to provide the necessary space and facilities for the course.

“We aim to introduce the Bachelor of Medical Imaging in Cairns by 2026, but a firm commitment in the upcoming election is vital for the course’s long-term viability,” he said.

Jamie Byrnes, Queensland X-Ray’s chief operating officer, said developing a “homegrown” medical imaging workforce was essential.

“Regional areas are most affected by healthcare workforce shortages,” he said.

Training local professionals helps retain qualified staff, as they have established networks and strong ties to the region.

“This partnership with CQUniversity is crucial for developing a pipeline of skilled medical imaging professionals in the Far North,” Mr Byrnes said

Radiology training expansion for Far North. Picture: Supplied.

He added: “We fully support CQUniversity’s call for a $27.5m federal government investment to make this a reality.”

Professor Klomp further highlighted CQUniversity’s progress in regional healthcare training, having added physiotherapy to its Cairns offerings last year.

Occupational therapy and exercise physiology will follow as part of the new campus development.

The medical imaging course is currently offered at the Mackay campus.

For more information on the course offering visit the Bachelor of Medical Imaging course page.

Originally published as Cairns radiography initiative seeks funding amid critical delays in breast cancer diagnostics