SA Pathology

The Hon. J.S.L. DAWKINS (15:39): My question is directed to the Minister for Health and Wellbeing. Will the minister update the council on SA Pathology's work during the COVID-19 pandemic?

The Hon. S.G. WADE (Minister for Health and Wellbeing) (15:39): I thank the honourable member for his question. We have seen around the world that no-one is immune to the dangers of COVID-19; however, the evidence also indicates that it presents a more significant risk for some vulnerable members of our community. People who have an immune system disorder or are immunocompromised as a result of treatments such as chemotherapy are particularly vulnerable.

To provide more dedicated care for this vulnerable cohort, SA Pathology has opened three new collection clinics at Hyde Park, Mile End and Elizabeth, all dedicated to immunocompromised patients. The clinics mean that immunocompromised and vulnerable children will be able to access services outside of hospital. Pathology services provided through these clinics include support for haematology, oncology and transplant patients. Additionally, care is extended to other at-risk groups, such as those with immunodeficiency diseases, chronic conditions like heart disease or diabetes, and pregnant women.

The collection centres are specifically designed to reduce exposure to infection, particularly COVID-19, but include any form of infection. The service provided at the clinic will be particularly valued by children and young people currently receiving chemotherapy who need blood tests the day before their treatment. In this context, the centres can help limit their time at hospital, improving their patient journey and allowing them to spend more time at home with loved ones. The collection centres also offer finger-prick tests, which are much less invasive procedures for young patients. It's quicker, it's less painful and it's less intimidating for children.

These set of clinics continue the exceptional work of SA Pathology during the COVID-19 crisis. SA Pathology stepped up during the coronavirus pandemic and provided South Australians with a world-class COVID-19 testing service that reduced the spread of the virus and saved lives. It has now performed more than 126,000 COVID-19 tests and is typically turning around these results in less than 24 hours.

SA Pathology showed its innovative spirit by testing respiratory specimens for COVID-19 and introduced the world's second drive-through clinic. It also introduced rapid COVID-19, which provides a diagnosis in less than 60 minutes, and a new digital health service, which enables people to access negative test results through an SMS. This is yet another innovative patient care initiative from SA Pathology and I congratulate them all on their work.

Protecting the health and wellbeing of South Australians remains our top priority. As long as the coronavirus is out there, the Marshall government will continue to put measures in place to keep our community safe.