WA now has nine Commonwealth endorsed GP-led Respiratory Clinics, with Derbarl Yerrigan Health Service opening two clinics in Maddington and Mirrabooka in the past week.
The clinics, also known as Moorditj Kwopa Malyan (strong, good lungs), will offer local communities, including Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people, access to rapid assessment and testing for acute respiratory conditions, including COVID-19.
They are part of the Australian Government’s $2.4 billion health package response to the pandemic.
The Maddington clinic was opened by the The Hon. Ken Wyatt AM MP, Minister for Indigenous Australians and Federal Member for Hasluck.
Minister Wyatt said maintaining a high level of protection for Indigenous Australians from COVID-19 was a priority
“This Respiratory Clinic will significantly increase access to culturally safe testing and care for respiratory conditions – delivering more care for our community,” he said
“We have been strong during this time, and this increase of support will ensure we continue to be safe and healthy.”
Derbarl Yerrigan Chairperson, Francine Eades, said she was pleased that Derbarl responded to the opportunity to provide the vital service to its patients and the wider community.
“During the coronavirus crisis, we have helped our patients identify the symptoms of the virus and directed our people with symptoms to the state’s COVID-19 clinics,” she said.
“Now, we are able to provide expert testing and assessment services ourselves.”
WA Primary Health Alliance CEO, Learne Durrington, said the organisation was delighted to have facilitated the establishment of the well-equipped respiratory clinics on behalf of the Australian Government Department of Health.
“Our work with Derbal Yerrigan Health Service is a testament to the strong partnership between our two organisations.
“The clinics will play a vital role in the front-line response to COVID-19 by providing testing and care in a culturally secure health setting for Aboriginal people and other local community members.”
Staffed by GPs, Aboriginal Health Practitioners and nurses, the clinics provide care for people with respiratory symptoms, and offer free COVID-19 testing, away from other patients.
They complement Derbarl’s ongoing efforts in health promotion and alternative health care to keep Aboriginal people safe and protected from COVID-19.
Like all Respiratory Clinics, both clinics operate on an appointment only basis. To find out more, visit https://www.health.gov.au/initiatives-and-programs/coronavirus-covid-19-gp-respiratory-clinics