How Alice Springs’ Ross Facility is being used during COVID-19

Alice Springs’ Ross Facility is being reserved for quarantining of people with high care needs, but what exactly does that mean?

The Ross Facility is reserved for those having to quarantine with high care needs. Photo: EMMA MURRAY

WHILE a steady stream of interstate arrivals cross the NT borders, Alice Springs’ Ross Facility is being reserved for quarantining of people who require closer nursing observation and/or the isolation of suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19.

But what exactly does that “higher care needs” mean?

A COVID Operations spokeswoman said there were many reasons which may constitute higher care in this instance.

She said this was “depending on a clinic health assessment of a person’s health and wellbeing at a point in time”.

“This could include but is not limited to pre-existing medical conditions, disability or mental wellbeing.”

The spokeswoman also confirmed there was only one commercial facility being used for quarantine in Alice Springs, which is currently The Mercure.

All mandatory quarantining in Alice Springs at the expense of the people in quarantine, a Central Australia Health Service spokeswoman said.

“There are currently about 40 people in quarantine in Alice Springs, including people who were in quarantine prior to the borders opening last Friday.”