The way forward for Australia’s first proton remedy unit is underneath a cloud after the South Australian authorities deserted a contract to purchase the machine, amid fears it would not be delivered.
The South Australian Well being and Medical Analysis Institute (SAHMRI) has formally terminated its settlement with ProTom Worldwide, the American provider of the most cancers remedy unit, following months of negotiations and issues in regards to the supply of the gear.
Greater than $50 million in Commonwealth grants have already been paid to ProTom Worldwide and its suppliers.
An additional $500 million of taxpayer cash was additionally spent constructing the Bragg Centre on North Terrace, which has a bunker, tailor-made particularly for ProTom’s machine.
“(We’re) making an attempt to find out how a lot of that’s recoverable whether or not that is when it comes to cash or items which were manufactured so far,” SA Treasurer Stephen Mullighan stated.
The choice to desert the undertaking has raised issues about the way forward for proton remedy in Australia, a most cancers remedy possibility presently unavailable within the nation.
Proton remedy holds immense potential, as demonstrated by Mitcham mom Monique Thompson’s expertise.
Her daughter Sophia efficiently underwent remedy in the US for most cancers in her backbone.
“There is not any phrases to place in opposition to having your baby right here when you end up they have a life-threatening situation,” Monique stated.
Even when it is decided a brand new machine can go within the North Terrace bunker, extra taxpayer cash shall be wanted.
The undertaking would even be again out to tender, which means any remedies would nonetheless be years away.
