• Community First, Always.

    From sample collection to lab test results, Public Pathology is on the COVID-19 frontline for every Australian.

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  • Coronavirus (COVID-19)

    For the latest on Coronavirus (COVID-19), go to www.health.gov.auYour primary source of COVID-19 information specific to your state/territory is your State/Territory Health Department. If you require further information you can call the National Coronavirus Health Information Line on
    1800 020 080.

  • Putting Patients First

    Public Pathology Australia. Putting Patients First.

    Representing government owned and operated pathology services, Public Pathology Australia is the only pathology peak body that puts the interests of patients first.

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  • Know Pathology. Know Healthcare.

    What is Pathology?

    Pathology is the medical specialty that analyses body tissues and fluids (e.g. blood tests) to help doctors diagnose and treat patients.

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  • Know Pathology. Know Healthcare.

    Position Statements

    Public Pathology Australia informs health policy, funding, quality and regulation arrangements in pathology.
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About Public Pathology Australia

Public Pathology Australia is the national peak body for public pathology in Australia.

Public Pathology Australia was formed in 2001 to provide a single voice for the public pathology services operating throughout Australia.

Public pathology is the foundation of pathology in Australia. Our members are the major government owned and operated pathology services in each State and Territory in Australia. They provide the vast majority of pathology services in Australia’s public hospitals, service a number of private hospitals, and operate community based collection services for patients upon request from GPs and Specialists.

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The Value of Public Pathology

Provide comprehensive access for all patients

Public pathology organisations have an extensive network of laboratories and technologies to provide access to the tests and analysis patients need, regardless of their income and location.

Provide high quality, integrated care

Public pathology provides high quality services across all settings: from in the community, to the hospital. Being linked directly to hospitals enables integrated care and greater continuity of care.

Provide expertise in complex medicine

Public pathologists are experts in diagnosing patients with the most complex and life-threatening conditions (e.g. in public hospital emergency departments, intensive care and oncology units).

Help protect our communities

Public pathology plays a vital role in responding to public health emergencies at the local, state and national levels. Public pathology has extensive experience working with other agencies to deliver effective response efforts.

Undertake research, education and training

Public pathology is innovative and translates research into new testing methods that improve healthcare. Public pathology provides teaching and training to support the development of new staff and enhance the skills of healthcare professionals.

Operate for the benefit of the public health system and its patients

Public pathology operates for the good of the broader government funded health system. Public pathology is committed to patient safety, quality assured services and improving health outcomes for patients.