Another COVID-19 testing clinic opening on the Mid North Coast this week

Federal Member for Cowper, Pat Conaghan MP visited the clinic today, and was quick to praise local residents for their efforts so far in fighting the virus.

"Our community has done a terrific job of slowing the spread of coronavirus and now with the opening of this respiratory clinic, we have an important second tool in our kit to combat COVID-19," he said.

"The Federal Government has invested 206.7 million nationally for respiratory clinics, and each one is given block funding to help it set up and ensure the services are provided free to patients.

"The more residents that get tested and use the COVID-Safe App, the better we will be able to identify people with the disease, and get life gradually back to normal."

Established as part of the Australian Government's 2.4 billion health care package, the clinic in the shire is one of six being set up on the North Coast.

Nambucca Healthcare Centre Practice Manager Sheree Smith hopes that with the opening of the new purpose built facility, members of the community will enjoy greater peace of mind.

"People showing mild to moderate respiratory symptoms - a cough or sore throat - will be able to come and be tested without concern of infecting others, the clinic has been set up to meet the highest standard of infection prevention and control," she said.

"Our clinicians are up-to-date on the best practice for testing and treating COVID-19, so we will make sure our testing is as fast as possible and as accurate as possible.

"At this stage, we are estimating that we will be able to see up to fifty patients a day."

Before going to the Nambucca Healthcare Centre for testing, residents are asked to book first and to abide by all current social distancing rules.

Go online to www.health.gov.au or call 6568-8688 to make an appointment, please be patient and polite while booking.