Island NHS Launches First-Ever Children’s Breathing Test Pathway

The Isle of Wight NHS Trust has become the first in the region to offer a direct pathway for children’s spirometry, a simple breathing test that helps diagnose and manage asthma and other respiratory conditions in kids aged six and over.

The service, based at the Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) at St Mary’s Hospital, means children can now have tests within six weeks — without waiting for a consultant appointment. Previously, delays often slowed diagnosis and treatment.

Ten-year-old Toby was one of the first to benefit.

Referred by his GP for occasional shortness of breath, he was able to have his test just minutes from home and school.

His mum, Kayleigh, said:

"Today has been amazing. Travelling just 10 minutes down the road has been so convenient and everyone at the hospital has been really lovely — it’s fantastic."

The new service also involved input from the Isle of Wight Youth Forum, who helped make waiting areas more child-friendly and improved patient information.

Dr Tracy Jones, Consultant Clinical Scientist, said:

"With thousands of children admitted to hospital each year with poorly controlled asthma, this new pathway allows us to give children an accurate diagnosis quickly and help GPs provide the best care plan."

The CDC’s Respiratory Team has completed specialist paediatric training to ensure the highest standards of care.

Early results show the service is already making a real difference for young Islanders and their families.