Photo Caption: The team undertaking the first part of the training with members of the Ahi Ka team - Liza, Bonnie, Kendall, Jo-Ann, Anna and Kate.
He Puna Waiora Wellness Centre is preparing to introduce Point-of-Care testing for throat and skin infections, marking a significant step forward in how care is delivered to patients and whānau.
The new research project will enable clinicians to identify infections such as Group A Streptococcus and common skin infections, including Staphylococcus aureus and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, with results available within minutes during the patient visit.
The implementation research, with a 3 year research grant, that has been more than a year in development and is overseen by Professor Bev Lawton (2025 New Zealander of the Year) and colleagues. In 2025, Practice Manager Maria Colligan-Ward and Practice Nurse Kasey Hope attended the 2nd Asia Pacific Conference on Point of Care Testing for Infectious Diseases in Thailand. The conference highlighted the role of rapid diagnostics in improving access to timely treatment, particularly in primary care and remote community settings.
That learning will soon be put into practice at He Puna Waiora. This month, the research project began rolling out across the practice, with training sessions delivered to the wider medical team. The programme included both theoretical and hands-on components, ensuring staff are confident in operating the equipment and interpreting results safely and accurately.
The testing is delivered using a compact, user-friendly analyser that processes samples on site and provides reliable results within a short timeframe. This enables clinicians to make informed treatment decisions during the consultation, reducing delays and supporting more targeted and appropriate use of antibiotics.
Importantly, the Point-of-Care testing service will also be available through He Puna Waiora’s outreach clinics, supporting remote communities across Southland. By bringing diagnostic testing directly to communities, the service helps remove barriers such as travel, delayed follow-up, and limited access to laboratory services.
Practice Manager Maria Colligan-Ward says the introduction of Point-of-Care testing reflects He Puna Waiora’s commitment to equitable, high-quality care.
“Being able to test and receive reliable results during the consultation is a real advantage for both patients and clinicians. It supports timely decision-making and helps ensure people start the right treatment sooner. We’re proud to be bringing this service to our patients and the wider Southland community.”
For Practice Nurse Kasey Hope, the rollout represents months of preparation and collaboration across the team, with a strong focus on patient safety and continuous improvement.
The research project aligns closely with He Puna Waiora’s values of innovation, equity, and patient-centred care. As Point-of-Care testing becomes embedded across the practice and community clinics, the team looks forward to the positive impact it will have for whānau accessing care.
This marks an important first step in expanding Point-of-Care diagnostics at He Puna Waiora, helping to break down barriers to care and support better health outcomes across Southland.
