Clinic closes in Geelong

Barwon Health restructures response

A CORONAVIRUS clinic set up at the former Geelong Private Hospital site has closed, as the number of local cases steadies.

Barwon Health established an acute respiratory assessment clinic at the former private hospital site, now known as University Hospital Geelong Building B. It was set up to provide a service for GPs to refer people who were unwell and suspected of having COVID-19, and opened in March.

But Barwon Health said as the number of cases had reduced significantly, the clinic was now closed.

Spokeswoman Kate Bibby said Barwon Health had a “well-developed capacity plan to respond to the pandemic”.

“The plan details triggers for opening additional wards and clinics if required,” Ms Bibby said.

“At this time, Building B continues to form part of Barwon Health’s planning and preparedness in response to COVID-19.”

She said the acute respiratory clinic at Building B was specifically for GP referrals.

“It was established to manage demand in the emergency department,” Ms Bibby said.

“With changes in demand, and to better manage workforce resources, this service is now available in the emergency department of University Hospital Geelong.”

It has been more than two weeks since a new confirmed case of coronavirus was reported for Greater Geelong.

Ms Bibby said anyone with minor symptoms continued to be directed to Barwon Health North, Barwon Health’s Torquay Community Health Centre or their usual GP clinic.

The State Government revealed in March it would recommission the former Geelong Private Hospital site to prepare for the pandemic.

The beds were part of a boost announced by the Government, with more than 700 beds added across Victoria.

The building underwent a rapid renovation to provide a new acute respiratory assessment clinic with 50 new beds and consulting rooms.

It is not known how much the renovations cost.

The extra wards have increased Barwon Health’s capacity and ensured it is prepared for any increase in demand.