Released 24/06/2020
The ACT Government is today reminding the community about free and accessible facilities across the ACT where Canberrans can be tested for COVID-19.
The ACT has consistently produced strong testing figures having now conducted close to 27,000 tests since early March. In the last 48 hours, the ACT conducted more than 1000 tests, with Monday being the highest number in a single day.
Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said the ACT’s high testing rate is a fantastic achievement and helps to give the most accurate picture of the virus in the community.
“Testing remains the most important way for us to detect and respond to COVID-19 in the Canberra community.
“We want to keep these testing figures high, however we understand that the demand for tests also means we are starting to see significant wait times at our walk-in testing clinic at Weston Creek, and at our drive-through testing facility at EPIC.
“So we’re reminding Canberrans that these are not the only places where you can be tested. I remind everyone that there are other free and accessible options across the ACT where people can book an appointment, Monday to Friday,” said Minister Stephen-Smith.
These facilities include Commonwealth funded GP Respiratory Clinics, located at:
- Your GP@Crace – 1/5 Baratta Street, Crace.
People can book online at www.yourgpcrace.com.au or by calling (02) 6109 000.
- Lakeview Medical Practice Tuggeranong– 1/216 Cowlishaw Street, Greenway.
People can book online at www.lakeviewrespiratoryclinic.com.au or by calling (02) 6185 1986.
- Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health and Community Services – 63 Boolimba Crescent, Narrabundah.
The Service provides a free and culturally appropriate assessment and testing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and existing clients. Before visiting, call ahead on (02) 6284 6222.
“The Commonwealth funded GP respiratory clinics are a more convenient option for some people and are playing a key role in meeting demand as testing numbers increase.
“The collective testing efforts across the entire ACT health system is helping to place us in the best possible position in our response to COVID-19,” said Minister Stephen-Smith.
The ACT Chief Health Officer Dr Kerryn Coleman said everyone needs to play their part to prevent new cases of COVID-19 in the ACT.
“If you have flu-like symptoms, or believe you have symptoms, then please consider booking an appointment at a free clinic before attending the walk-in clinic or drive-through facility.
“Remember, anyone who feels they need to be tested can also call their regular GP in the first instance and ask for an appointment.
“Canberrans must also to continue to practise good hand and respiratory hygiene and maintain physical distancing requirements. Doing this is helping to protect our most vulnerable community members,” said Dr Coleman.
Quotes attributable to Capital Health Network (CHN) CEO Megan Cahill:
“The GP Respiratory Clinics are located in established general practices dedicated to supporting their communities and increasing access to COVID-19 testing.
“The Australian Government has allocated $206.7 million to support the establishment of more than 100 clinics across Australia.
“A GP Respiratory Clinic is different to a COVID-19 Testing Clinic in that GPs do a full assessment including taking a history, performing an examination, providing testing and treatment. If symptoms are diagnosed as another illness, such as pneumonia, the GP can provide treatment during the appointment, before returning care to the usual GP.
“It’s essential that Canberrans continue to speak with their usual GP about their existing conditions and ongoing heath care at this time. Please don’t put off seeing your GP or getting a diagnostic test out of fear of contracting COVID-19. General practices are following stringent infection prevention and control measures.”
For further information on free testing facilities across the ACT, visit www.COVID19.act.gov.au
- Statement ends -
Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases