Royal Melbourne Hospital trialling predictive AI in ED
The Royal Melbourne Hospital has been working with the University of Melbourne to try out machine learning models to project patients' length of stay at the emergency department and their likely discharge.
Based on a media release, these AI models utilise deidentified hospital data to predict four outcomes at different times.
Aiming to improve patient flow and resource planning, the research team designed the tools to be adaptable in hospitals.
Initial outcomes, researchers claimed, showed their potential to reduce ED overcrowding, supporting decision-making in high-demand settings.
New track system automates pathology workflow at St Vincent’s Melbourne
St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne has automated the handling of its 3,000 daily pathology samples.
It recently introduced a digital track system that replaced manual handling of specimens. It features motorised carriers that transport specimens through centrifugation, decapping, aliquoting, analysis, recapping, and into refrigerated storage.
The automated system reportedly can store over 30,000 specimens and automatically route samples to the appropriate analyser, improving turnaround times.
RFDS launches online appointments
The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) has introduced its online booking platform for patients in rural South Australia.
The booking portal called Bushlink allows users to choose a service, such as GP consultations, nursing care, physiotherapy, and mental health support, and manage their appointments online.
Available via web and on digital devices, it is now being tried out in select communities with plans for expansion in other regions in the coming months.
