The emergency department at Penola War Memorial Hospital has again been temporarily closed to prevent the possible spread of COVID to the adjacent Pinchunga aged care facility.
The closure took effect last week and follows a similar measure for a number of months in 2020.
Naracoorte and Penola Hospital Director of Nursing and Midwifery Pam Schubert said it was important to further safeguard those most vulnerable to the COVID disease.
“The community can be reassured this is a temporary closure and will be regularly reviewed,” Ms Schubert said.
“We will continue to monitor the COVID situation in the Limestone Coast and ensure appropriate measures are taken to ensure community safety for our vulnerable and elderly population.
“Patients presenting to the Penola Hospital Emergency Department will be triaged by a registered nurse, by phone or in a designated screening location outside the site.
“When emergency medical attention is required, staff will contact SA Ambulance Service to transfer the patient to the Mount Gambier Hospital emergency department.
“If non-urgent medical care is required, the patient will be advised to speak with their GP or seek medical attention at the nearest hospital by car.
“The SA Ambulance service is aware of this temporary closure at Penola and have plans in place to divert people to other hospitals as required, including emergency services at the Mount Gambier Hospital.”
