The South Australian Government has opened a second metropolitan COVID-19 drive-through facility, located at the Hampstead Rehabilitation Centre, to further increase the options for South Australians needing to be tested for coronavirus.
“South Australia led the nation with the establishment of the first drive-through testing clinic at the Repat and the success of that initiative has been replicated around the country,” said Premier Marshall.
“Extensive testing for COVID-19 has been a hallmark of South Australia’s strong, decisive response to the threat posed by the coronavirus pandemic.
“The State Government has moved swiftly to put in place measures that will delay the arrival and reduce the peak of COVID-19 to provide greater protection for South Australians.”
Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade said drive-through testing clinics are an effective, safe and convenient method of enabling people to be tested for COVID-19.
“I need to reiterate that both Hampstead and the Repat drive-through services are for patients who have a referral from a GP,” said Minister Wade.
“To arrange a referral, patients will not necessarily need an appointment with their GP.
“At the drive-through clinic, patients book an appointment, stay in their vehicle whilst being swabbed by SA Pathology nurses with the test results then sent to their GP.
“Patients getting a coronavirus test must self-isolate until they receive the results of their test.
“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.
“Staying at home if you feel sick is 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 Repat COVID-19 drive-through testing facility has conducted 762 tests of more than 17,000 undertaken by SA Pathology.
For the latest information on COVID-19 in South Australia, visit the SA Health website at www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/COVID2019
