Hobart COVID-19 testing clinic to go back to a booking system

A higher-than-expected response to walk-up COVID-19 testing in Hobart has prompted authorities to revert to a booking system.

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A HIGHER-than-expected response to walk-up COVID-19 testing has prompted authorities to revert to a booking system.

Department of Health secretary Kath Morgan-Wicks said a no-booking trial which began on Christmas Day brought with it a community response greater than authorities anticipated.

Registered nurse Samantha Lapidge at the COVID testing clinic in Hobart. Picture: NIKKI DAVIS-JONES

She said following a busy day at the Hobart testing clinic on Saturday morning, authorities decided to restore the booking system “to minimise disruption to attendees and ensure the most safe and effective management of the site”.

The change only impacts Hobart, with no bookings required for the other clinics statewide during the three-week trial.

“People are definitely heeding the message and getting tested if they start showing any cold or flu-like symptoms,” she said.

“We would like to thank those who turned up at the Hobart clinic over the last two days for their patience and understanding.”

People wanting to book an appointment at the Hobart Clinic should contact the testing hotline on 1800 671 738.

Testing sites across the state are open through the festive period.

Clinic opening hours through to January 1 are:

Sunday 27 to Thursday 31 December (Hobart, Launceston and Burnie) – 8:30am to 3.30pm

Sunday 27 to Thursday 31 December (East Devonport) – 7.30am to 2.30pm

Friday 1 January (all clinics) – 8:30am to 11:30am

Originally published as Hobart COVID-19 testing clinic to go back to a booking system