A drive-through assessment centre for coronavirus (COVID-19) launched today at the Whakatane War Memorial Hall as a collaborative effort between Te Puna Ora O Mataatua & The Eastern Bay Primary Health Alliance, with support from the Bay of Plenty DHB.
The centre has been set up to allow other medical centres, general practices (GPs) and Whakatane Hospital to continue providing health services to the public without the threat of COVID-19 transmission.
People with suspected COVID-19 symptoms will be able to drive directly to the centre to be assessed. “If you have respiratory symptoms, including shortness of breath or a sore throat, or flu-like symptoms you can be assessed at the drive through centre” says Med Central Director Dr Jethro Le Roy. “All assessment will be based from your car to ensure everyone can safely get support and advice without putting others at risk.”
The centre is open at Whakatane War Memorial Hall, Short Street, on Wednesday 25 March and will be open seven days a week, with open hours likely to change according to community need.
