The State Government is moving to better protect health workers and their families during the coronavirus pandemic by establishing a health hotel for frontline staff.
“South Australia’s health professionals are heroes of our efforts to combat COVID-19 and it’s vital that we look after those who look after us,” said Premier Steven Marshall.
“Providing hotel accommodation will not only offer a sanctuary for health workers during the difficult days ahead but will also give them peace of mind that they are minimising any risk to their families at undue risk.
“The State Government has a strong plan which is being implemented in a decisive manner to protect South Australians from the coronavirus pandemic.
“We need to look after one another like never before and I urge each and every South Australian to recognise the responsibility we all have for our health and the health of our family and friends.”
The Marshall Government has called for expressions of interest and is currently in discussions with several hotels to provide the centrally-located accommodation, which will have an en-suite and kitchen.
It will be available for eligible staff, on a priority basis, who have been involved in the direct on-going clinical care of COVID-19 patients.
Accommodation will be provided for doctors, nurses, SA Ambulance staff and other health care workers who are at the frontline of the coronavirus pandemic.
Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade said the initiative was another example of the State Government’s strategic thinking when dealing with the coronavirus pandemic.
“SA Health is doing an outstanding job in responding to the enormity of the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic,” said Minister Wade.
“Our world class testing regime, including drive-through facilities, the rapid creation of additional hospital beds and the hotel for hospital workers are just some of the initiatives that are better protecting South Australians.
“But we cannot beat this virus if we leave the job of protecting our community just to health workers and the hospital system.
“I can’t overemphasise how important it is for all South Australians to follow the directions that have been put in place to minimise the impact of this pandemic.
“Regular washing of hands must become the norm for everyone, social distancing must be practiced as a social obligation, and staying at home if you feel sick is an imperative.
“We literally have the lives of others in our hands and must do everything we can to protect our family, friends and neighbours from this disease.”
The accommodation is expected to be available to staff within the next few weeks.
