The Finocchiaro CLP Government is boosting frontline healthcare in Central Australia, delivering new lung function machines worth around $100,000 at Alice Springs Hospital.The new state-of-the-art lung testing equipment means a broader range of respiratory tests can be done leading to better care and treatment of Territorians with respiratory conditions.The CLP Government is helping Territorians live happier and healthier lives.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is boosting frontline healthcare in Central Australia, delivering new lung function machines worth around $100,000 at Alice Springs Hospital.
The new lung function machines include a new Plethysmograph, which has numerous integrated diagnostic testing capabilities, and Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO) breathing device.
Minister for Health Steve Edgington said the new machines equip Alice Springs Hospital with state-of-the-art lung testing technology, giving clinicians faster, more detailed diagnostic information for people with respiratory conditions.
"As part of our year of growth, certainty and security, the CLP Government is delivering healthcare certainty for Central Australian residents with better health infrastructure.
"This new equipment means the Alice Springs hospital lung function team can now provide a broader range of respiratory tests that were not previously available. More testing means earlier detection, earlier treatment, and better care for Territorians with respiratory conditions."
"This new equipment means Territorians with suspected airway conditions, such as asthma, can now undertake airway hypersensitivity testing here in the Territory instead of being referred interstate or having to pay for private services, saving Territorians time and money.
"The CLP Government is helping Territorians live happier and healthier lives. The Plethysmograph is a critical machine that ensures the Territory's respiratory healthcare practices are in line with other states and territories," Mr Edgington said.
Another important addition is the FeNO breathing device, which can measure the level of inflammation in a patient's airways.
Testing on this device is quick, simple and non-invasive, and can support an asthma diagnosis when other tests are inconclusive. It can also determine if a patient will respond to particular medications, as well as adjusting dosages according to the patient's needs.
This portable device can be used for bed-bound patients and will be used in communities to determine environmental differences that can impact airways.
Oliver Stokes, Senior Respiratory Scientist at Alice Springs Hospital, said, "The addition of new equipment marks a significant advancement in respiratory diagnostics for Central Australia.
"We've been able to perform routine lung function testing for some years, but now it's really exciting to have access to more specialised tests in the form of FeNO testing, bronchial challenge testing, and respiratory muscle assessments.
"These tests mean we can better diagnose and manage a range of breathing conditions without people having to travel longer distances. It's a big step forward for the region."
