Western Australia’s rapid respiratory panel testing is being expanded across more of the state’s public hospitals.
The WA Government says the expansion, which is being supported by $3.2 million in funding from the Winter Strategy, will further progress faster diagnosis and improved emergency department (ED) care.
The Spotfire respiratory testing system was successfully trialled at Armadale Health Service, helping health professionals quickly identify common respiratory illnesses such as influenza, RSV and COVID-19.
“Respiratory illnesses place significant pressure on our health system each year, particularly during winter, and rapid testing is critical to ensuring patients receive care sooner,” said Health Minister, Meredith Hammat.
“By giving health professionals faster test results in the ED, patients can be diagnosed and treated quicker, reducing waiting times and improving care.
“The success at Armadale Health Service shows how this technology can make a real difference, and we’re now expanding it at selected hospitals across the State.”
This week the roll-out will extend to Rockingham General Hospital, with further phased implementation across selected regional emergency departments.
Previously, respiratory samples were transported off-site for laboratory testing, with results taking up to six hours. Testing is now available at the patient’s bedside, reducing turnaround times to approximately 15 minutes.
Delivered through a partnership between PathWest and health service providers, the Spotfire platform can detect up to 15 viral and bacterial pathogens within minutes. This supports earlier clinical decision-making, appropriate isolation of infectious patients, and timely admission or discharge.
