Search for WA detention centre escapee

A man who escaped from Western Australia's Yongah Hill immigration detention centre while en route to a medical appointment remains on the run.

Police have been searching for the detainee, who is believed to be Chinese, for the past week.

The Department of Immigration confirmed to AAP that the man absconded on his way to a scheduled appointment at Royal Perth Hospital.

"Western Australia Police and the AFP were informed immediately and are working with the department to locate the individual," the department said.

"Searches of the area were conducted immediately after the incident occurred."