Bendigo Health has set up a separate screening area for people who need to be tested for coronavirus.
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The hospital has set up the area in preparation for an increase of patient numbers. People presenting for testing should report to the emergency department.
So far, Bendigo Health has tested more than 100 people for COVID-19 with no positive results being returned.
Bendigo Health chief executive Peter Faulkner said the hospital is taking a proactive approach to protect both our staff and our community.
"We are preparing for increased patient numbers and have created a dedicated area next to our Emergency Department," he said.
"Nursing staff will triage all screening requests based on specific infectious disease criteria and there will be people who do not meet criteria for screening and so will be sent home.
"We are working closely with the Department of Health and Human Services and our regional partners to ensure a co-ordinated approach.
"While we have tested more than 100 people, to date there have not been any positive COVID-19 results."
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Mr Faulkner said the new COVID-19 screening area should not be the first port of call for people who believe they have coronavirus.
"The first point of contact for people who suspect they have COVID-19 remains the DHHS hotline," he said.
"If you are advised to seek screening, please present to the emergency department where you will be provided with immediate instruction to go to a different area."
Mr Faulkner said all international and domestic business travel for Bendigo Health had been cancelled.
Patients who have appointments for specialist clinics or elective surgery and have travelled recently should contact Bendigo Health ahead of their appointment.
"For patients with an appointment in any of our specialist clinics or who are booked for elective surgery and who have recently travelled or come in contact with someone who has COVID-19 please ring for advice prior to their appointment," Mr Faulkner said.
Mr Faulkner urged people to take care to practice good hygiene to protect from coronavirus.
"As the major health service for the region we strongly urge people to take precautions," he said.
"In addition to practicing good hand hygiene we suggest that people practice social distancing and avoid mass gathering events."
On Thursday, Ballarat Base Hospital also set up an area for people showing symptoms of coronavirus.
Anyone who suspects they have COVID-19 should first contact the Department of Health and Human Services hotline on 1800 675 398.
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