Pathology

Alfred/Monash Shared Pathology Service is one of Victoria’s most comprehensive and trusted providers of diagnostic pathology services.

They are dedicated to delivering accurate, timely and patient-focused results that support clinicians in making informed decisions and improving health outcomes.

Their service operates as an integrated network of laboratories strategically located across Melbourne Metro, Southeast Melbourne, Bass Coast and South Gippsland and now Western Health.

They also maintain satellite collection centres to ensure convenient access for patients in metropolitan and regional communities.

Services include:

• blood and urine tests
• tissue and cytology analysis
• microbiology and infectious disease testing
• genetic and molecular testing
• pathology collection and specimen handling
• rapid response for critical care and emergency cases.

Alfred/Monash Shared Pathology Service teams work closely with clinicians to ensure fast and accurate results that inform diagnosis, monitoring and treatment.

Do I need to book for a Pathology test? 

For most pathology tests, an appointment is not required and clients presenting at our patient centres will be attended to in order of arrival.

There are, however, a small number of tests that do require a booking. Patients who have booked for these specific tests may be seen out of order due to special timing requirements.

What’s the best time to attend?

Our patient centres are busy earlier in the day. If you are able to attend later in the morning or in the afternoon, you will usually be served more promptly. However, if your test requires fasting overnight, you should attend as early as possible.

What do I need to bring with me for my Pathology test?

• your Pathology request form
• your Medicare card
• any specimens you have collected at home 

What should I do after my test? 

Fasting can leave some patients, especially children and older adults, feeling fragile. Avoid exertion until you’ve had something to eat and drink. 

After blood has been collected and gauze has been applied to the puncture site, avoid bending your arm or lifting anything heavy with the arm, including bags or handbags, until you feel better.

Are my specimens and information kept secure? 

In common with all Australian major hospitals, Pathology uses the 3-point patient identification check to ensure the specimen is matched to your doctor’s request. The same process applies if you are dropping off a sample you have collected yourself for testing.

All our Pathology laboratories are NATA-accredited to ensure the highest standards of testing, handling and clinical accuracy of your pathology test results.

Glucose Tolerance Tests (GTT) are available at all Western Health pathology collection centres.

Appointments must be booked in advance - please contact your preferred collection centre directly between 8:30 am – 4:00 pm (Monday-Friday) to arrange.

GTT appointment times are available from opening time at your preferred Western Health pathology collection centre until 9:30 am. These appointments are available Monday to Friday at all locations and on Saturdays at Footscray Hospital and Joan Kirner Women's and Children's collection centres.

SmileyScope is a virtual reality headset that can help distract and comfort children during pathology collection procedures. Children can choose to use SmileyScope during their appointment. SmileyScope is available at these pathology collection centres:

• Footscray Hospital
• Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s at Sunshine Hospital
• Bacchus Marsh Hospital

How can I get my results? 

Please contact your Doctor for your results and/or your results will be available on My Health Record. 

Results will not be provided directly to patients. 

When can I get my results? 

Your doctor will advise you when your results are available.

Are my results kept private? 

Pathology maintains rigorous levels of confidentiality and all your medical information is protected according to current laws on privacy and the protection of personal information.

I am still on a clinical trial with Dorevitch Pathology – who should I contact?

Please contact Dorevitch Pathology if you are participating in a clinical trial. Telephone (03) 9244 0444 or visit www.dorevitch.com.au.