About the program
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Respiratory Infection Point-of-Care (POC) Testing Program was implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic (utilising existing infrastructure developed by the TTANGO STI testing Program) to provide rapid access to COVID-19 testing, and to facilitate timely public health responses, within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. It has since been expanded to include testing for influenza (Flu) A and B and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
The program provides on-site, rapid access for Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander people to molecular (PCR) testing for respiratory infections within the primary care environment, in areas where access to POC testing in a decentralised, culturally sensitive setting may improve health outcomes for vulnerable individuals and communities.