Suspension of Spirometry and Saliva (Oral Fluid) Drug Testing in Victorian Clinics

When COVID-19 was first touted as a potential pandemic, the Sonic HealthPlus Pandemic Preparedness Team (PPT) instituted a range of precautionary measures designed to reduce risk for our staff and clients involved in everyday clinical activities. Given the increase in COVID-19 cases in Victoria over recent weeks, we have once again decided to observe our PPT’s recommendation today that we suspend spirometry and saliva (oral fluid) drug testing services within Sonic HealthPlus Victorian based clinics, effective immediately.

The PPT team reassesses our practices on a daily basis, balancing clinical necessity against staff and client safety. They are of a view that the more we can eliminate risk at this time, the better it is for our people and our clients within the state of Victoria.

What does this mean for candidates?

Medicals wherein spirometry is a mandatory component (including legislative medicals such as QLD Coal Board medicals) can still be completed without the spirometry component. The Sonic HealthPlus results management team will keep a record of all candidates for whom the spirometry component requires completion at a later date when it is once again safe to perform.

Where medicals typically require saliva drug testing, clients will be consulted at the time of booking and can elect whether this service is similarly completed at a later stage or that an Instant Urine Drug Test is performed in its place.  Once again, the Sonic HealthPlus clinic results management team will maintain a record of those candidates needing the saliva drug Testing component to be performed at a later date should the client requires this.

We would like to assure our clients that we are monitoring the situation very closely and continually developing clinical protocols within our clinics that assist in protecting our staff, patients, clients and local communities.  Should you require further information or have questions concerning COVID-19, please visit our website: www.sonichealthplus.com.au/services/coronavirus , or contact your Sonic HealthPlus Client Partner.

We know that this is a very difficult time and would like to reassure you that your safety is our priority.