Media Releases

As more real-world evidence surrounding rapid antigen tests comes to light, the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia reaffirms its position against the widespread use of these tests in Australia and New Zealand, due to the limitations in their sensitivity. The RCPA strongly urges that careful consideration, further monitoring and evidence is required before considering the implementation of rapid antigen testing in both countries.

Pathology testing is a vital part of preventative healthcare such as screening tests, as well as for diagnosis and management of chronic diseases.

My Health Record lets healthcare providers and patients easily access this information, enabling continuity of care across the healthcare system and in the community.

The Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia (RCPA) is once again reminding the community to be tested for COVID-19. This follows new market research* by the RCPA, which reveals that 64% of respondents in New Zealand chose not to get tested, despite experiencing cold and flu like symptoms within the past six months.

The Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia (RCPA) is reinforcing its advice against the widespread use of rapid antigen test for the diagnosis of COVID-19 in Australia and New Zealand in the current context of low prevalence of COVID-19 infections. As outlined in an updated position statement, the RCPA states that rapid antigen tests have lower sensitivity and specificity than the current Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) molecular tests, therefore have a relative increased chance of giving both false positive and false negative results.

The Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia (RCPA) strongly supports the Federal Government’s decision to invest $667.1 million into increasing pathology services for Australians over the next four years, including extending Medicare subsidies for COVID-19 testing until 31 December 2021. The funding was announced last night as part of the 2021/22 budget and builds on previous investment, totalling $1.8 billion since the start of the pandemic.