Building on its decision to keep SA Pathology in public ownership, the Marshall Liberal Government is looking at opportunities to strengthen the service going into the future.
A business case will assess the merit of building a new flagship laboratory for SA Pathology.
Premier Steven Marshall said that additional investment in a new laboratory for SA Pathology would drive even greater improvement in the delivery of its services.
"SA Pathology has excelled during the coronavirus pandemic and we are determined to support the organisation to continue to improve services" said Premier Steven Marshall.
"SA Pathology has developed a world-leading response to the COVID-19 pandemic which has been integral to the State Government's strong plan to counter the coronavirus pandemic."
Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade said the consolidation of SA Pathology's services offers the possibility of significant savings in SA Pathology's annual operating costs while continuing to drive improvements in the quality of services.
"SA Pathology has been instrumental in our State's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, delivering a world class testing regime that has reduced the spread of the virus and saved lives," said Minister Wade.
"Since February, it has performed more than 45,000 COVID-19 tests and typically turning those results around in less than 24 hours.
"SA Pathology has embraced innovation, introducing rapid COVID-19 testing which provides a diagnosis in less than 60 minutes and a new digital health service which enables people to access their test results securely online".
Minister Wade said several metropolitan sites will be considered for the new flagship laboratory as part of the business case.
"The creation of a consolidated facility has the potential to free up space in our hospitals, reduce courier trips and help to improve timeliness," said Minister Wade.
"It could also allow the service to expand beyond blood and swab samples to provide further testing, such as the tissue diagnosis of disease (anatomical pathology).
"SA Pathology has a central role in public health care and bringing together some services site offers the opportunity of enhancing existing clinical and research partnerships and ultimately achieving a more responsive and efficient service for South Australians.
