New RPH facility will centralise services for haemophiliacs

19/4/95

Western Australia's 1,700 people with bleeding disorders will benefit from the centralising of services and facilities at Royal Perth Hospital.

Health Minister Graham Kierath said these patients had special problems and needed quick and convenient access to treatment.

The new RPH Haemophilia Centre would provide that access.

"These patients suffer from bleeding into the joints or muscles," Mr Kierath said.

"They are at risk even when they undergo minor surgery or visit a dentist.

"They face disability through arthritis."

The Minister said that HIV and other medically-acquired viral infections had aggravated the plight of 40 per cent of WA's severe haemophilia patients.

Another 80 per cent had acquired Hepatitis C from contaminated blood products.

"The need for comprehensive and centralised care has been well established," Mr Kierath said.

The centre is the result of better co-ordination of existing resources and the addition of others.

Already in place are a coagulation laboratory, an emergency department, dental specialists, clinical immunology, gastroenterology, rheumatology, general and orthopaedic surgery, radiology and nuclear medicine.

The Haemophilia Foundation has contributed by bringing in its counselling and support services.

"This has been a joint effort between RPH and Princess Margaret Hospital, the Foundation and the Red Cross Blood Transfusion Centre," the Minister said.

"Much of the credit must go to Dr Ross Baker and his team.

"Reforms are under way, but they are aimed at the health system, not at the doctors, nurses and staff who have a tradition for excellent patient care and quality service."

The commissioning of the RPH Haemophilia Centre comes only a few days after Mr Kierath opened the new PathCentre at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital. This facility concentrates State pathology services into the one location.

Media contact:  Caroline Lacy 481 2133  /  222  9595