COVID-19 testing facility open at Wallaroo

Member for Narungga Fraser Ellis MP is pleased to advise a designated COVID-10 testing facility has today been opened at Wallaroo Hospital.

It is the first of a number of clinics in the Yorke and Northern Local Health Network to be established over the coming days, with others being planned for Maitland, Yorketown, Port Pirie, Crystal Brook, and Jamestown.

“The Wallaroo testing clinic is a drive-through facility where tests can be taken with the patient still in the vehicle to minimise the risk of spreading any infection, the same as similar clinics opened in Whyalla and Port Augusta this week.

“There are no confirmed cases in the region. However, this new clinic and others planned, offer support for our local GPs and medical centre staff who are working very hard with increased demands on their services, and will ensure people who need it have access to timely testing and treatment”, Mr Ellis said.

It is stressed that only people who have COVID-10 symptoms, especially fever or cough and who have recently returned from overseas or have had contact with a known COVID-10 case are being tested and that a referral from a GP is required to attend the clinic.  

Opening hours are Monday to Friday 2pm-3.30pm; anyone who attends without a GP referral will be refused testing.

“The opening of this clinic is a proactive measure, about being prepared for any escalation of the virus should it occur”, Mr Ellis said. “The Coronavirus remains contained and there have been no community transmissions in South Australia. Anyone seeking further advice should phone the designated hotline on 1800 020 080.”

Statement attributable to Yorke and Northern Local Health Network Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery, Michael Eades

“The Yorke and Northern Local Health Network is working extremely hard to rapidly establish a number of regional COVID-19 testing facilities in response to the pandemic.

“A designated COVID-19 testing facility has today been opened at Wallaroo Hospital, with a clinic at Port Pirie GP plus expected to open in the coming days. The clinics are specifically designed to test patients who meet the current screening criteria and have recently travelled overseas or have had contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19.

“This is an extremely positive step for the region with the activation of testing clinic’s helping to reduce the burden on our Emergency Departments, ensuring the segregation of potentially infectious coronavirus cases while providing the most appropriate clinical care.

“We encourage everyone to remain calm and follow official advice from reputable sources to help protect family, loved ones and the community during this time."