As we transition to living with COVID-19, I encourage Tasmanians to remain informed about the latest public health advice and continue to practice COVID-safe behaviours.
While there has been a reduced number of reported case numbers of COVID-19 in Tasmania in recent weeks, it is important that people continue to get tested if they have any cold or flu-like symptoms or are a close contact of a positive case.
PCR and Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) remain free for all Tasmanians and continue to be available at clinics and collection points across the State.
From this Saturday, 24 September, State-run PCR testing clinics in Hobart, Launceston and Burnie will no longer require bookings. From this date, people will simply be able to present to a State-run PCR testing clinic – including Devonport – during opening hours and be tested. Bookings are still required for a test at these locations until Friday, 23 September.
The opening hours of State run PCR clinics are as follows:
Collection of free RATs is also still available at Service Tasmania centres for concession card holders.
You can find your nearest PCR testing location or request a RAT by visiting www.coronavirus.tas.gov.au or calling the Public Health Hotline on 1800 671 738.
The Public Health Hotline continues to be a vital asset in the State’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, providing valuable and up-to-date information to the public.
Following reduced call volumes in recent months due to fewer cases, especially on weekends, staffed operating hours for the hotline will change from this Saturday, 24 September.
Public Health Hotline’s new hours of operation will be 8am-5.30pm on weekdays (no weekends or public holidays).
For calls after-hours and on weekends, a programmed messaging service will be in place to provide callers with details such as how to access PCR or RAT testing and vaccinations. People can also visit www.coronavirus.tas.gov.au which is regularly updated with current information and advice.
If you test positive for COVID-19, you can contact your GP or phone the COVID@homeplus team on 1800 973 363 to discuss your care options, and let them know if you have any risk factors. This also applies to people seeking urgent access to anti-virals.
If people test positive on a RAT on a weekend, they have 10 days to register their result and the Public Health Hotline’s programmed messaging service will provide this instruction for after-hours.
Laboratory testing and the sending out of test results will continue as normal, including on weekends.
I urge everyone in Tasmania to continue to follow COVID-safe behaviours. This includes maintaining good hand hygiene, following social distancing and wearing a mask when you can’t, testing when you have cold and flu-like symptoms, and staying home if you are unwell.
I also encourage all Tasmanians to stay up to date with their vaccinations, by visiting their GP or pharmacy. The most important thing you can to do protect yourself, your family and the community is to roll up your sleeve and get vaccinated when you are due.