The ACT Health Directorate has announced the expansion of its Weston-Creek Respiratory Assessment Centre for COVID-19 testing.
In a statement, the Directorate said the Weston clinic had recently been confirmed as a dedicated Respiratory Assessment Centre (RAC), with people seeking treatment for minor injuries and other illness advised to attend walk-in centres at Tuggeranong, Belconnen and Gungahlin instead.
“Services at the Weston Creek RAC have now been expanded to provide clinical support for COVID-19 patients who do not require hospital admission,” the Directorate said.
It said patients who needed support would be asked to participate in a telehealth consultation with a health care worker to determine their needs.
“This may include a physical assessment, reassurance and advice, an appointment with a RAC GP or a referral to an in-reach service such as Hospital in the Home or community nursing,” it said.
It said post-hospital support and follow up care for positive COVID-19 cases would also be available from the Weston facility.
Minister for Health, Rachel Stephen-Smith said the expansion of the Weston clinic services would help reduce the number of patients presenting at emergency departments during the pandemic.
“The Weston Creek Walk-in Centre has been playing a vital role in our response to COVID-19,” Ms Stephen-Smith said.
“Expanding services through a dedicated Respiratory Assessment Centre will ensure COVID-19 patients who are recovering at home get the care and support they need.”
