Territorians suffering cancer have been told they'll have to wait up to two years to get a PET scanner, six years after its was first promised.
Incoming NT Health Minister Natasha Fyles revealed the new timetable on Monday, saying she was confident it would arrive despite being promised by both sides of federal politics since 2010.
Positron emission tomography (PET) scans are used to detect and track cancer, heart disease, epilepsy and other neurological diseases.
"Every time a Territorian has to get on a plane and travel interstate to access that equipment it's disappointing," Ms Fyles said.
It's estimated to cost about $15 million in federal funding.
Former member for Solomon Natasha Griggs had promised one if the coalition won the 2010 federal election.
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull reaffirmed that commitment in the lead-up to the 2016 federal poll, but the NT government must now apply for a grant first to get the scanner.
"The federal government has made a strong commitment that the PET scanner will be delivered. That process has started," Ms Fyles said.
"It's now in the hands of both the Northern Territory and federal departments of health, they're completing the paperwork."
On average, 558 Territorians are diagnosed with cancer each year, according to a study by Cancer Council NT.
