Self-Collect Respiratory Testing
SA Pathology now offers the option to self-collect a PCR swab for the detection of COVID-19 and respiratory pathogens influenza A & B, RSV, metapneumovirus, parainfluenza 1, 2 & 3, adenovirus, rhinovirus, Mycoplasma and Bordetella pertussis.
In addition, SA Pathology continues to provide full panel respiratory testing through our network of Respiratory / COVID-19 Collection Centres.
Self-collected PCR swabs provide a safe, fast and reliable way to diagnose respiratory viruses, including COVID-19. Self-collect kits are available from your GP, and must be accompanied by a GP request form.
Non-contact swab drop-off points
Our drop boxes are conveniently located and offer safe, contact-free, specimen drop off.
Simply place the pathology specimen bag containing the request form and labelled tube (with swab inside) in the drop box at any of the following SA Pathology locations:
Frome Road Laboratory (after hours only) next to the main entrance, reception.
Royal Adelaide Hospital next to the front entrance of the Royal Adelaide Hospital Emergency Department.
Flinders Medical Centre next to the Surgical Pathology Specimen Reception entrance. Access via Service Road, off Flinders Drive.
Lyell McEwin Hospital next to the SA Pathology laboratory/deliveries entrance. Access via Haydown Road.
Berri place in the after hours specimen drop off chute next to the SA Pathology entrance.
Gawler next to the SA Pathology entrance.
Mount Gambier next to the SA Pathology entrance.
Murray Bridge next to the SA Pathology entrance.
Port Augusta next to the SA Pathology entrance.
Port Lincoln next to the hospital main entrance.
Port Pirie next to the SA Pathology entrance.
Victor Harbor next to the SA Pathology entrance.
Wallaroo next to the SA Pathology entrance.
Whyalla next to the SA Pathology entrance.
Collection Centre swab drop-off locations
Self-collect PCR swabs can also be dropped to selected SA Pathology Collection Centres, no waiting required.
Simply place the pathology specimen bag containing the request form and labelled tube (with swab inside) in the SWAB DROP OFF ONLY basket to any of the following locations:
Adelaide - Frome Road walk in site
Murray Bridge Green Shopping Centre
Whyalla – Westland Shopping Centre
Information for doctors
Medical centres can order respiratory self-collect kits at Health.SAPathologyCOVIDLogistics@sa.gov.au for distribution to patients following consultation.
To order a self-collect respiratory PCR test:
- Complete a SA Pathology request form: Self-collect full panel respiratory
Note – a valid patient mobile number must be included on the form. Please provide a separate request for each self-collect swab.
- Provide your patient with the request form and a swab kit, containing a patient instruction sheet, swab and specimen bag.
COVID-19 results will be sent to the patient via text message. All other respiratory results will be sent to the requesting doctor, and where applicable, uploaded to My Health Record.