A Fuji Sonosite Edge II Ultrasound device, which now sits proudly in the respiratory treatment room of the hospital, was made possible because of a Hastings Cancer Trust grant in 2018.

Dr Yash Prasad, a respiratory advanced trainee, and clinical respiratory consultant Sarah Buckley, said the machine is used to provide real time images of patients with fluid build up in their respiratory and abdominal systems. This allows for precise determination as to whether a drain is necessary as well as images of the exact area where a drain is being inserted.

The device, installed early this year, is already proving to be a benefit to many cancer patients suffering from post-treatment respiratory problems.

Sarah Buckley said the new machine replaces an older and less advanced machine from the hospital's emergency department. This device was not always immediately available for loan and patients sometimes had short waits for treatment or diagnosis.

Now they can plan and provide immediate treatment either in the specialist room, or when necessary, right at the patient's bedside which helps to reduce stress and waiting times.

The new state of the art ultrasound provides sharper, clearer and more defined images.

"It's great to learn that this improvement in therapy is all happening right here on the Mid North Coast," Steve Thomas from HCT said.

"What a fabulous outcome for all concerned and it was clear that the HCT grant had provided a great step forward for the medical team working in this field."