WA Hospitals Expand Rapid Testing for Flu and COVID-19 Ahead of Winter
The Cook Government is investing $3.2 million to expand rapid bedside testing for common respiratory illnesses, including influenza and COVID-19, across Western Australian hospitals. This initiative aims to accelerate patient diagnoses and improve hospital capacity in anticipation of the winter surge.
New Testing System to Speed Up Diagnoses
The Spotfire respiratory testing system, which can identify 15 viral and bacterial illnesses such as influenza, RSV, and COVID-19 in as little as 15 minutes, is being introduced at Rockingham General Hospital this week. This follows a successful trial at Armadale Health Service, where the technology demonstrated significant improvements in patient flow.
Previously, testing for these illnesses could take up to six hours, as samples had to be sent to off-site laboratories. The new rapid tests allow for immediate results at the bedside, enabling quicker treatment decisions and reducing waiting times in emergency departments.
Targeting Respiratory Illnesses to Ease Health System Pressure
Health Minister Meredith Hammat emphasized the critical role of rapid testing in addressing seasonal pressures on the health system. "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," she said.
The expansion comes as WA hospitals prepare for the flu season, which in 2025 led to record levels of ramping. By implementing these tests in several regional emergency departments, the government hopes to mitigate similar challenges this year.
Benefits of the Rapid Testing Rollout
The benefits of this expansion include:
- Faster Diagnoses: Patients can be diagnosed and treated more quickly, reducing the risk of complications.
- Improved Patient Flow: Quicker test results help free up beds and reduce congestion in emergency departments.
- Enhanced Care: Earlier treatment leads to better health outcomes and shorter hospital stays.
Minister Hammat added, "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 strategic investment is part of broader efforts to strengthen WA's healthcare infrastructure, ensuring it is better equipped to handle seasonal peaks in respiratory illnesses.
