Premier Jeremy Rockliff and Acting State Health Commander Dale Webster have today acknowledged and thanked the hard-working staff across the public health system, including those at the Royal Hobart Hospital which has been operating at increased levels of its COVID Escalation Management Plan in recent weeks to manage demand for services.
The RHH and associated sites have now de-escalated to Level 1 of their COVID-19 Escalation Management Plan representing a reduced number of COVID-positive patients in the hospital and reduced community transmission of COVID-19.
Premier Rockliff personally thanked staff at the RHH earlier today during a visit for their hard work while the hospital has been at a higher COVID Escalation Level.
"I would like to extend my thanks to each and every one of our RHH staff for their outstanding efforts during the most recent period at COVID Escalation Levels in our hospital," Premier Rockliff said.
"Their efforts have had a huge impact in helping us to navigate these challenges throughout this time. We are very appreciative of their commitment to the Tasmanian community, and to their colleagues."
Acting State Health Commander, Dale Webster, also thanked the communities of Southern Tasmania for working with them during this time in considering alternatives to attendance at the Emergency Department.
"Hospital escalation levels are well-established protocols that have been repeatedly demonstrated to be effective in managing COVID-related demand pressures," Mr Webster said.
"Our hospitals are always busy, and that's why it's important for all Tasmanians to remember that if they require non-urgent care, there are a number of appropriate alternatives to attending our Emergency Departments. This helps us to reduce pressure on our EDs and ensure those who require more urgent care continue to be prioritised, regardless of the escalation level at a given time."
Tasmanians can contact Healthdirect to speak to a Registered Nurse 24 hours a day 7 days a week. They can provide advice on whether people should manage their condition at home, book an appointment with a GP or go to the ED. Healthdirect may also be able to offer a call back from a GP.
Other care options include:
- Visiting a community pharmacy for minor ailments and illnesses;
- Using an afterhours GP service or walk-in clinic;
- Exploring booking an appointment with a local GP;
