On 8 March 2020, the Australian Government announced that up to 100 private practice respiratory clinics will be established across Australia to provide dedicated services to people with mild to moderate COVID-19 symptoms.

Healthy North Coast, Northern NSW Local Health District and Mid North Coast Local Health District are working together to identify clinic locations in our region that will maximise access to appropriate health services for people in our community and reduce pressure on hospital emergency departments.

We are now seeking Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from general practices who have capacity to rapidly mobilise and operate respiratory clinics in their community.

General practices who are selected to operate a respiratory clinic will:

• Enter into a direct contract with the Department of Health for a minimum period of three months.
• Receive establishment funding of $200,000 including one dedicated clinic room, plus $50,000 per additional dedicated clinic room to a maximum of 4 rooms.
• Receive a fee of $120 per patient visit (these are block funded initiatives).
• Follow guidelines developed by contracted providers Aspen Medical, including recommendations for remediation, set-up and infection control.
• Participate in relevant training delivered by Aspen Medical.

It is intended that clinics will be established in existing general practice premises. However, alternative premises that meet the site requirements may also be considered.

Expressions of Interest from practices to deliver services collaboratively are encouraged. For joint proposals, a single lead agency must be identified.

Final locations for clinics will be determined by the Australian Government Department of Health. Proposed sites may be assessed by Aspen Medical and will be selected with consideration to suitability, amenity, efficiency and sustainability.

Expressions of interest have now closed.

Keep an eye on our COVID-19 page for the latest updates.