Policy changes – Rhesus D Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing commenced at Joondalup Antenatal Clinic
Following the successful rollout at other Perth sites, Joondalup Health Campus (JHC) has commenced local Rhesus D Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (RHD NIPT) for Rhesus D (RhD)-negative women.
Given that studies show that up to 40 per cent of RhD-negative women have a RhD-negative baby, this represents an important change to the management of RhD-negative women in pregnancy as determining the Rhesus status of the baby indicates which patients will benefit from receiving Rhesus D Immunoglobulin (anti-D) and negates unnecessary intervention in others.
If GPs anticipate a RhD-negative patient’s first visit to the antenatal clinic won’t occur until after 20 weeks, it is important for the GP to arrange RHD NIPT prior to their visit. RHD NIPT can only be performed at PathWest.
A patient information sheet and RHD NIPT request form are available from PathWest.
New Hospital Liaison GP at Joondalup Health Campus
Long term northern suburbs GP, Dr Belinda Russell-Smith, has commenced in the role of Hospital Liaison GP for JHC and Joondalup Private Hospital. Any feedback, suggestions or requests for support from GPs can be directed to RussellsmithB@ramsayhealth.com.au or via the JHC GP Priority Line – 08 9400 9775.
Dr Belinda Russell-Smith
Hospital Liaison GP, Joondalup Health Campus
RussellSmithB@ramsayhealth.com.au