New coronavirus mobile testing clinics are being fitted out over the coming weeks to prepare our health system to meet the future challenges posed by COVID-19 and to deliver services in a safe environment.
Minister for Heath Sarah Courtney said these mobile testing clinics are in addition to the modular clinics announced last week, with buses being fitted out by local North West company Penguin Composites.
“Our number one priority is keeping Tasmanians as safe and secure as possible during the unprecedented challenges we are currently facing,” Minister Courtney said.
“We are boosting our services and delivering the infrastructure our health professionals need to deliver safe care across the state.”
Liberal Member for Braddon Joan Rylah said Penguin Composites will fit out three buses which will operate as mobile coronavirus testing clinics.
"We've invested approximately $1 million on the buses, the 12 modules and other infrastructure to support these vital clinics," Mrs Rylah said.
“We know this is a difficult time for our community, and we want to assure Tasmanians that we will continue to do whatever it takes to stop the spread of coronavirus in our state.”
The first bus will be available later this week, with the second and third buses to be available later in the month.
A fourth bus has also been purchased from Metro, with fit out to be commissioned shortly.
These services will commence at a number of sites around Tasmania as demand increases for COVID-19 responses.
All clinics and their operations are designed to align with the strategies within our COVID-19 response plan.