The first of six respiratory assessment clinics planned for Gippsland to help fight illnesses such as coronavirus has today opened in Warragul.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said further clinics would open in Morwell, Sale and Bairnsdale in his electorate of Gippsland. Two more will be located in Foster and Wonthaggi.
The Gippsland Primary Health Network has worked with general practices to find suitable locations. The clinics will be funded by the Federal Government.
“These clinics will provide those suffering mild to moderate respiratory symptoms a place to be assessed and receive treatment advice,” Mr Chester said.
“Patients will be able to be tested for respiratory conditions, such as coronavirus, influenza and pneumonia. They may then be referred to another medical facility for treatment or advised to self-isolate at home.
“These new clinics will complement the services available at our hospitals and local GP practices, helping to ease the pressure on these existing services.
“I’m pleased that people across Gippsland will be able to access respiratory facilities and testing as we continue our efforts to overcome the coronavirus.
“The opening of the remaining clinics will continue to strengthen our fight against coronavirus and look after Gippslanders.”
The six clinics planned for Gippsland are among 100 federally-funded respiratory clinics to open across Australia.