A government endorsed respiratory clinic will open in Halls Head on Monday, allowing people with a mild illness suggestive of COVID-19 to be assessed and, if required, tested.
The respiratory clinic is located at 1 Elderberry Circle, Halls Head in a stand-alone facility which is operated by Modern Medical Clinics.
Modern Medical practice principal Steve Bingham said he was pleased to offer this service to allow local people access to a dedicated facility offering rapid assessment and testing in a safe and friendly environment.
"While it is great that the rate of COVID-19 infection has been consistently low over the past weeks, we want to ensure the community has peace of mind that, if they do have symptoms they think might be COVID-19, they can be dealt with quickly and conclusively," he said.
"We will be working closely with other local general practices and health services to ensure they are aware of the service and how it can benefit them and their patients.
"This will include notifying the patient's usual GP of the results of any testing, with the patient's permission."
This is the third respiratory clinic to open in WA, with the others being in Geraldton and Alexander Heights.
WA Primary Health Alliance continues to liaise with a number of other general practices to finalise arrangements for other clinics in regional and metropolitan locations.
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WAPHA chief executive Learne Durrington said the Australian government Department of Health had approved the Halls Head respiratory clinic for operation, after meeting strict infection control procedures.
"The clinic is intended for people whose respiratory symptoms are mild to moderate, and who think they may need to be tested for COVID-19," she said.
"Patients who attend can be confident of remaining safe, being thoroughly assessed, and receiving the best possible care and advice.
"For all other healthcare needs, people should continue to visit their usual GP who knows them and their medical history well."
The clinic will operate strictly by appointment only and are asked to only attend the clinic at the time of their booking so social distancing can be maintained.
People can book online at HotDoc and search for Halls Head respiratory clinic or call the clinic on 9582 7638.
In addition to the new clinic, people can continue to visit one of the metropolitan based COVID clinics, or request a referral for a test from their usual GP.
Anyone with severe breathing difficulties should call triple zero (000) immediately.
