Kenmore Clinics swings into action

Kenmore Clinics recently opened a dedicated respiratory testing clinic for people who have symptoms similar to COVID-19.

The free Federal Government-funded service is the sixth of its kind in the southeast with other respiratory clinics in the North Brisbane and Moreton Bay region operating in Nundah, Morayfield and Caboolture.

The nationwide respiratory clinics aim is to alleviate the burden of respiratory illness presenting to hospitals and general practices.

With four isolation rooms and the capacity to see up to 50 patients per day, the clinic came about with the commitment of management, doctors and staff at Kenmore Clinics.

In a matter of weeks, the team created the respiratory clinic by relocating an existing skin cancer clinic, laying new vinyl flooring, moving and storing furniture, training staff and setting up new appointment books, software and phone systems.

Clinical Manager, Fiona Edgecombe said that while the clinic was established they had their hands full.

“Not only were we dealing with setting up the respiratory clinic, we had all the normal GP conundrums to deal with, like the introduction of new telehealth item numbers and influenza vaccination clinics, which were in high demand this year,” she said.

“Thankfully our clients have been very patient, supportive and understanding during this trying period,” said Ms Edgecombe.

Initially, the Kenmore GP respiratory clinic was seeing about 20 patients each day, which has now grown to approximately 40 patients each day.

Ms Edgecombe says the separation of clinics helps to ensure patient safety.

“We can refer any of our patients who have respiratory symptoms to the respiratory clinic for assessment and treatment therefore ensuring our GP and skin cancer clinics are safe environments for people to visit.”

Following treatment, Kenmore Clinics sends a comprehensive summary to the treating GP, ensuring they are aware of treatment, testing and results.

Ms Edgecombe said the local community had been outstanding in their support of the clinic.

“We have been completely overwhelmed by people’s generosity.

Many community groups and local businesses have given us handy items like handmade scrub caps and gowns or scrumptious home baked goodies.

All these gifts certainly brighten up our day and reassure us that we are appreciated,” she said.

The new Kenmore Clinics service is open from 8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

No referral to the clinic is necessary but bookings are essential. Contact the Respiratory Clinic on 07 3363 1699 or book an appointment online via hotdoc.com.au and search Kenmore Clinics.