Herald Sun: Hampton Day Hospital’s HealthScreen program ‘most advanced’ in Australia

A new hospital has opened in Hampton today, offering world-leading MRI screening that detects early cancers and “silent killers” often missed in routine tests.

Jordy Atkinson, Bayside Leader | November 22, 2019 12:30pm

A new hospital has opened in Hampton today, making it easier for people to access a state-of-the-art health screening program.

The new program, called HealthScreen, combines the most advanced MRI technology available with internationally renowned specialists to provide early detection and diagnosis of some of the most common causes of death for Australians over 40.

HealthScreen, at Hampton Day Hospital, is Australia’s first screening hub to use this technology to provide customers with a personalised and comprehensive report of present and long-term health, including risks and genetic predispositions for particular diseases and conditions.

HealthScreen provides individuals with advanced screening and early detection for 20 of the most common cancers, including lung, prostate, breast and colorectal, as well as cardiovascular disease and stroke risk.

Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt said the new hospital was part of a shift towards prioritising preventive health and diagnostics.

“The new HealthScreen offering at Hampton Day Hospital … will help support Australian’s to receive an earlier diagnosis to some of the country’s deadliest diseases.

“Early detection is key to improving outcomes for people living with cancer and other preventable diseases.

“I look forward to seeing how this new service … helps to improve the lives of Australians across the country.”

HealthScreen medical director David Badov said the program had potential to “revolutionise preventive health”, with almost half the population likely to be diagnosed with a cancer in their lifetime.

“Through a partnership with Siemens Healthineers we are able to bring groundbreaking health technology, not only to Victoria, but also wider Australia,” he said.

“HealthScreen is the only medical facility in Australia to offer such comprehensive early diagnostic imaging with MRI and other health screening.”

Dr Badov said MRI was more accurate than CT for diagnostic imaging of areas such as the brain, prostate and pancreas, as well as being radiation-free.

“The clinic also has an exclusive collaboration with a pathology provider to enable access to hundreds of genomic tests, currently unavailable to Australians,” he said.

After screening, a doctor will explain patients’ results in depth, organise any necessary follow ups with specialists, and propose a personal wellness plan to support a healthier, longer life.

And the scanner has ‘Innovision’ video technology the hospital says is designed “to redefine the patient experience ”.

It is an immersive video and audio experience that allows the patients to watch a video or a movie during the scan.

To find out more about the new service, visit healthscreenaustralia.com.au or call 1300 03 1300.

Hampton Day Hospital is at 338 South Rd, Hampton.