Services at RSDC
We offer a wide range of tests at three different locations. Please speak with our reception staff to find a convenient location that suits you.
Spirometry (pre and post bronchodilators)
Spirometry is a lung function test where you breathe into a device called a spirometer to measure airflow and volume. It helps diagnose respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD.
Measurement of Gas Transfer Factor (TLCO)
Gas Transfer Factor (TLCO) measures how efficiently oxygen moves from the lungs into the bloodstream. It involves inhaling a small amount of carbon monoxide to assess gas exchange. This test helps diagnose lung conditions like pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema, and monitors treatment effectiveness.
Bronchial Provocation (Mannitol Challenge Test)
The Mannitol Challenge Test assesses airway sensitivity in potential asthma cases. Patients inhale mannitol, a substance that can trigger bronchoconstriction in asthmatics. This helps confirm the diagnosis by measuring lung function before and after the test.
Lung Volumes (Plethysmography/ Body Box)
Lung Volumes, or Plethysmography/Body Box testing, measures how much air your lungs can hold and how efficiently you breathe. It's done by sitting in a sealed chamber and breathing normally while pressure changes are recorded. This helps diagnose lung conditions like asthma and COPD.
Exercise Challenge Test (for assessment of exercise induced asthma)
The Exercise Challenge Test is used to assess exercise-induced asthma. Patients perform physical activity while their lung function is monitored. This helps diagnose asthma triggered by exercise by observing any decline in lung function post-exercise.
Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO)
FeNO measures exhaled nitric oxide, indicating airway inflammation in asthma. It helps assess severity and treatment effectiveness.
Six Minute Walk Test (6MWT)
The Six Minute Walk Test (6MWT) is a simple assessment where individuals walk as far as they can in six minutes. It measures aerobic capacity and endurance, commonly used to evaluate functional exercise capacity in various conditions such as heart and lung diseases.
Supplemental Oxygen Assessment (including SWEP application)
Supplemental Oxygen Assessment evaluates the need for oxygen therapy in individuals with low blood oxygen levels. It includes an assessment of oxygen levels at rest and during activity. The assessment may involve applying for equipment through the Statewide Equipment Program (SWEP) for eligible individuals.
Maximal Inspiratory Pressure (MIP) and Maximal Expiratory Pressure (MEP)
MIP and MEP measure respiratory muscle strength. MIP gauges inhalation force, while MEP measures exhalation force. They help diagnose and monitor conditions affecting breathing muscles.
Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test (CPET)
The Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test (CPET) assesses heart and lung function during exercise. It measures parameters like oxygen uptake, heart rate, and ventilation to evaluate overall cardiovascular and respiratory fitness. CPET is used to diagnose exercise-related conditions and tailor exercise prescriptions for rehabilitation or performance enhancement.
In-hospital and home-based sleep studies
In-hospital and home-based sleep studies are diagnostic tests used to evaluate sleep disorders. In-hospital studies involve spending the night in a sleep clinic where various parameters like breathing patterns, brain activity, and heart rate are monitored. Home-based studies allow individuals to sleep in their own bed while wearing portable monitoring devices that record similar sleep-related data. Both types of studies help diagnose conditions such as sleep apnoea, insomnia, and restless leg syndrome, guiding appropriate treatment strategies.
Early appointments for patients who may need to be seen urgently
Early appointments are arranged for patients requiring urgent attention. These appointments ensure timely evaluation and treatment for individuals with pressing medical needs.
• RSDC Bulk Billed CPAP Clinics are attended by consultant sleep Physicians and Sleep Technicians. This is a cost saving service for patients, as we can provide an immediate diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnoea reviewed by our Sleep Specialists, in order to start CPAP therapy.
• Severe asthma clinic for assessment of biologic treatments
Referral forms for our services can be completed or downloaded via RFT request form or Medical review referral / Sleep study request form.