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Te Whatu Ora starts genomics testing pilot
Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand has launched a two-year pilot to deliver local genomic testing for cancer and rare disease patients in New Zealand, aiming to reduce reliance on overseas laboratories and shorten diagnostic timelines.
Based on a media release, the programme, delivered in partnership with Illumina, will process more than 6,000 samples using whole genome sequencing for rare and inherited disorders and comprehensive genomic cancer profiling.
New Zealand currently sends over 4,000 genomic tests overseas each year, spending more than NZ$4 million ($2.3 million). Te Whatu Ora expects the pilot testing to localise around half of these tests and inform plans for a national genomics service.
Flinders University's stroke self-management website goes live
Flinders University has launched EmpowerMe, a website that supports stroke survivors and carers in managing recovery and building confidence after stroke.
Developed over two years with input from patients, carers and clinicians, the platform features more than 150 short video stories and tailored content on fatigue, mobility, communication, and emotional recovery. It also has accessibility features for users with aphasia.
The website is now undergoing further user testing to evaluate its impact on self-efficacy, following initial usability results showing strong satisfaction.
Fullarton Clinic streamlines digital system
Fullarton Clinic, a private psychiatric hospital in Victoria, has partnered with Clintel Systems to implement its mental health hospital software as part of efforts to modernise clinical and operational workflows.
The web-based CareRight platform integrates EMRs, patient administration, and billing into a single system, supporting functions such as electronic medication management, AI-assisted bed management, digital care pathways, online bookings, and reporting across the clinic's mental health services in Epping.
