Rapid testing for flu and COVID-19 expanded to help speed up time in hospital ahead of winter surge

Rapid bedside tests for common respiratory illnesses like the flu and COVID will be rolled out at new hospitals, in an effort to free-up bed capacity ahead of the expected winter surge. The Spotfire respiratory testing system will be introduced at Rockingham General Hospital this week, after a successful trial at Armadale Health Service. The testing allows faster diagnoses of 15 viral and bacterial illnesses such as influenza, RSV and COVID-19 in as little as 15 minutes. Existing testing would take up to six hours and require the tests to go to an off-site laboratory. The tests are also planned to be used in several regional emergency departments. The Cook Government is investing $3.2 million for the roll out, with the hopes it will lead to quicker diagnoses leading to earlier treatment and improved patient flow, freeing up beds. It comes as WA’s hospitals brace for the flu season which led to record ramping in 2025. Health Minister Meredith Hammat said the testing could target an area which hits the health system particularity hard each winter. “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. “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.”