The Australian Government, Department of Health and Aging report ‘Review of the current arrangements for the regulation of approved (pathology) collection centres, October 2006’ notes the following reasons for regulation:

1. reduce the number of collection centres.

2. increase the efficiency of pathology specimen collection.

3. ensure future growth of collection centres occurred in a reasonable manner

4. ensure all collection centres were of a reasonable standard.

5. allow flexibility to the industry to make decision on whether to apply for units of entitlement and licences, and the number and location of collection centres.

In addition stakeholders commented that other objectives were:

1. Quality control – many stakeholders noted the importance of the pre-analytical phase in the overall testing process.

2. Cost reduction – stakeholders believe regulation was required to help contain costs.

3. Patient access – to ensure equity across the geographical area

4. Business conduct – to ensure appropriate business practices in place.

The report notes that an allocation factor of one collection centre per 14,200 patient episodes is in place. There are also guidelines for collection centres in terms of quality, health and safety, waste disposal, staffing levels etc.