Abstract:
Background: The Advanced Diagnostic Imaging Subsidy Program (ADISP) was launched in June 2021 by Racing Victoria’s Veterinary Services Department (VSD). A key aim of the subsidy is to provide incentive to trainers, owners and referring veterinarians to utilise advanced imaging modalities to assist in the early detection of injuries allowing appropriate management strategies to be implemented to improve a horse’s performance, optimise career longevity and improved outcomes for horses post racing.
Methods: The imaging modalities available in the ADISP are scintigraphy, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET). There are three participating specialist imaging centres. For eligible horses, 50% of the imaging fee is covered by Racing Victoria, plus the cost of up to two nights’ hospitalisation if required, and an additional $300 towards specialist assessment at the referral centre. Post-imaging, diagnosis and recommendations are provided to the horse’s private veterinarian and trainer, and shared with Racing Victoria’s VSD.
Results: Analysis of data from 2022 to 2024 indicates that 80% of eligible Victorian racehorses imaged utilised the ADISP.
Conclusion: Data collected through the ADISP offers valuable insights into lameness in Victorian thoroughbreds and supports the development of injury prevention strategies and educational initiatives for trainers, owners, and veterinarians. Despite the minor decline in uptake in 2024 at one of the participating clinics, the ADISP continues to be utilised in the majority of Victorian racehorses that undergo advanced diagnostic imaging. Further analysis of data is now required to assess why there is a decrease in uptake at one of the participating clinics and whether the ADISP has had an appreciable effect on the reduction of major injuries in Victorian thoroughbred racehorses.