KDHS transitions to public pathology service

Oct 1, 2020

KYABRAM District Health Service is transitioning to a public pathology service to strengthen its connection to the surrounding regional healthcare network.

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On November 15, 2020 the contract with its current pathologist ACL ends and Kyabram District Health Service will move its pathology services to public health provider Austin Health Pathology.

Kyabram District Health Service acting chief executive Greg Pullen said an integrated network of public pathology providers would provide greater flexibility and enable better regional connections to enhance patient care.

“ACL has served us well for many years, however as a public health provider it makes sense for Kyabram District Health Service to be better connected to the regional healthcare network by moving to a public pathology service,” he said.

“The transition will enable Kyabram to benefit from strategic statewide public pathology service planning which will enhance system responsiveness, sustainability and optimise patient outcomes.”

Moving to the same model as surrounding hospitals like Castlemaine Health, the expansion of public pathology services in the Loddon Mallee region will ensure there is a sustainable and stable long-term investment in pathology services and new equipment and technologies to meet the needs of rural Victorian communities.

Through Austin Health Pathology, Kyabram will be able to access an extensive inpatient and outpatient pathology service that is customised to meet local community needs.

Furthermore, as part of the transition, Austin Health Pathology will be talking to current ACL staff about ongoing employment opportunities at Kyabram.

All point-of-care testing with be performed and diagnosed locally to ensure efficient delivery and a prompt service to patients.

Austin Heath Pathology director Nick Crinis said Austin Health would draw on the effective model that had worked successfully in other parts of Victoria, such as at Castlemaine.

“Austin Health Pathology currently provides pathology services to a number of regional communities, and we look forward to offering the same high-quality service to patients at Kyabram District Health Service and in the surrounding area,” he said.