Service Updates

Important notice: The anti-dsDNA FARR RIA assay will be temporarily unavailable 14 October 2026 Important notice: The anti-dsDNA FARR RIA assay will be temporarily unavailable The anti-double stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) Farr by radioimmunoassay (RIA) is temporarily unavailable because of an analyser maintenance issue. Replacement parts are required before the analyser can return to service. At this stage, repairs are anticipated to be completed within 1–2 weeks. However, there may be additional delays while the laboratory catches up on accumulated runs. Interim testing and reporting In the interim, anti-dsDNA antibody specimens will be tested using the Phadia ELIA assay. If an interim result is required for clinical decision-making, please telephone the QEII Immunology Laboratory on (08) 6383 4303. Once the RIA analyser is operational, specimens tested during this interruption will be rerun using the Farr assay. Both the interim Phadia ELIA result and the subsequent Farr RIA re...

New legislation limiting the use of genetic testing information by life insurers 12 October 2026 What is changing? As of 8 October 2026, life insurers cannot use genetic testing information when deciding to offer life insurance, or the terms of that insurance. This means a genetic test result cannot be used to decline or limit cover, or increase the premium charged. Your support will help people prepare for and better understand these legislative changes. Ready-to-use stakeholder kit by Genom...

PathWest Collection Centre Now Open at Mount Lawley Hospital 05 October 2026 We are pleased to announce that the PathWest collection centre at MLH is now open and providing public pathology collection services to patients and the local community. As Western Australia’s public pathology service, PathWest provides comprehensive testing that supports the diagnosis, treatment and ongoing management of health conditions. This milestone reinforces our commitment to delivering a...

Change to pre-operative and pre-procedure Group and Screen collection timeframes 16 September 2026 PathWest has updated its requirements for pre-operative and pre-procedure Group and Screen samples. Pre-operative and pre-procedure Group and Screen samples are required to be collected at least 48 hours prior to the scheduled procedure. This timeframe allows sufficient time for sample transport to the appropriate testing location and helps avoid delays or repeat collections. Further information i...

Changes to Requests for Haemoglobin DNA Studies 27 August 2026 Changes to Requests for Haemoglobin DNA Studies When requesting thalassaemia or other haemoglobinopathy investigations, please include either: “Haemoglobin DNA studies where required”, or “+/− Hb DNA studies” on the original request form. Why is this required? Including DNA studies on the initial request form allows PathWest to proceed with genetic testing, where clinically indicated, fo...