COVID-19 testing has increased on the Sunshine Coast as Sydney’s cluster grows, but some residents say accessing clinics or a special hotline is far from a smooth process.
The Sunshine Coast has two “express’’ drive-through sites – the Caloundra Health Service in West Tce and P2 carpark Bulwinkel Lane, Birtinya – as well as a walk-in clinic at Nambour Hospital.
Caloundra’s testing site is now open to 8pm daily until Christmas Eve.
The hours of operation have come under the spotlight since a woman later found to have been infected with the virus was turned away from Sunshine Coast University Hospital.
A Caloundra woman who spoke to sunshinecoastnews.com.au said she attempted to have a COVID test at SCUH on Sunday afternoon, but was turned away.
She had wanted a test “to do the right thing” as she was unwell and had a relative in her household who had low immunity due to ongoing treatment.
“A car in front of me was also turned away. I did arrive at 3.50pm and the centre closes at 4pm,’’ the woman said.
“However, the security advised me that they had been ‘given the directive’ at around 3.30pm to ‘shut it down’ as they were too busy.
“This is not ideal considering we had a positive case in the community (and she was turned away).’’
The woman said another hurdle was the public clinics can’t test anyone who isn’t registered.
She said she had attempted to register via the 1300 number but couldn’t get through.
“The security people said some patients were having to wait up to three hours to get through the hotline.’’
A Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service spokesperson said that if the hotline was busy, people could visit: http://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19/stay-informed/testing-and-fever-clinics for locations of private testing clinics. These included:
Sippy Downs: Sippy Downs Ochre Health Medical Centre – 8am to 5pm Phone 07 5373 0700
Noosa Junction: Sunny Street Respiratory Clinic – 9am to 5pm Phone 07 5313 7778
“COVID-19 testing has increased on the Sunshine Coast, and Gympie regions due to the Northern Beaches and Greater Sydney Hotspots,’’ the spokesperson said.
“If you are getting tested for COVID-19? Don’t forget to phone 1300 163 044 to register before arriving – the hotline is very busy today, so your patience is appreciated.
“The health service has extended its call centre opening hours until 8pm tonight, and Caloundra Drive Through clinic to 8pm tonight through until Christmas Eve.
“Registration and clinical screening is performed over the phone, and patients are then booked to their preferred QH digital express testing location.’’
Latest data on how many people are seeking testing is unavailable until Wednesday.
