WA Health has announced changes to COVID-19 testing clinics that reflect the decline in case numbers.
From 5 September, public clinics located at Royal Perth Hospital, Joondalup Hospital, Rockingham Hospital and the PathWest Murdoch Drive Through, will continue to offer free PCR testing without a referral.
Opening hours at public testing clinics will change to 8am-to-4pm, seven days a week, however PCR testing arrangements in regional areas will not change.
WA Health said that from 1 October a referral from a GP or a medical practitioner will be required to access PCR testing at clinics operated by private pathology providers.
Chief Health Officer, Andrew Robertson said there had been 57 million Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) distributed to the WA community and public sector.
“I would like to acknowledge and thank all testing clinic staff for their ongoing commitment to WA’s COVID response,” Dr Robertson said.
“COVID testing clinics have been an essential part of our COVID-19 response and everyone should continue to practise good hygiene habits, stay up to date with vaccinations and stay home if unwell or experiencing symptoms, even if testing negative to COVID-19.”
He said WA Health would continue to closely monitor the situation and make any further adjustments that were required to keep Western Australians safe.
Between 1 July and 1 August 107,326 COVID-19 cases were identified in the State using RATs, compared with 59,854 cases identified via PCR testing.
More information about the new testing guidelines is available at this PS News link.
