Northern Territory Radiation Oncology (NTRO)

Welcome to Northern Territory Radiation Oncology (NTRO), located at Tiwi, Rocklands Drive, 105. As an establishment focused on health, we are a point of interest for individuals seeking specialized care in radiation oncology.

Our team is led by Dr. Scott Carruthers, who brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our institution. Dr. Carruthers obtained his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degrees (MBChB) from the University of Natal, South Africa in 1998. He further specialized in Clinical Oncology, obtaining the Fellowship in Clinical and Radiation Oncology (FCRadONC) through the College of Medicines of South Africa in 2006. With previous appointments as a Senior Specialist in academic departments and a decade of experience in private practice, Dr. Carruthers is dedicated to improving outcomes for all patients, particularly Indigenous patients, through clinical trials and technological advancements. His areas of expertise include breast, prostate, genitourinary, gastrointestinal, and gynecological cancers.

A/Prof Michael Penniment AM is another esteemed Director at NT Radiation Oncology. He co-established the center in 2010 with Dr. Carruthers to ensure that rural and regional cancer patients have access to high-quality treatments. A/Prof Penniment is a highly experienced Radiation Oncologist with a special interest in breast cancer, head and neck cancer, upper gastrointestinal cancer, colorectal cancer, and skin cancer.

The safety and accuracy of radiation treatment are paramount, and our team of three medical physicists plays a vital role in ensuring this. They are experts in the physics of radiation and its interaction with the human body, as well as being responsible for the accuracy of the treatment machines.

In addition to our medical team, we have a range of allied health professionals who provide care and support to patients undergoing radiation treatment. This includes dieticians, speech pathologists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, psychologists, and social workers.

At NT Radiation Oncology, we understand the importance of culturally-appropriate care, especially for Indigenous patients. That's why we have dedicated Aboriginal Liaison Officers who play a crucial role in supporting Indigenous patients through their cancer diagnosis and treatment journey. Their involvement helps patients navigate the hospital system and ensures culturally-sensitive care.

Our team of ten radiation therapists are responsible for delivering radiation treatment to patients each day. They work closely with the Radiation Oncologist and medical physicists to calculate the radiation plan and operate the treatment machines, ensuring safe and accurate treatment. Patients will become familiar with the radiation therapists, who can answer questions about their cancer and treatment or refer them to other health professionals as needed.

Heading our institution is Giam, who has been instrumental in the design and build of our radiation oncology service in Darwin. Since opening in 2010, Giam has led a cohesive multi-disciplinary team to deliver culturally-appropriate and high-quality patient care and treatment for Territorians. He is proud of our center's achievements, including having the shortest waiting times in the country. Giam also plays a key role in optimizing cancer care pathways, with a focus on access and continuity of care for rural and remote patients. He works closely with key stakeholders to improve cancer outcomes for Aboriginal people.

At NT Radiation Oncology, we are committed to providing exceptional care, utilizing the latest advancements in radiation oncology, and ensuring the well-being of all our patients.