The clinic was developed and planned with leading input from Stawell Medical Centre's Dr Kannan Ramanathan.

Dr Ramanathan has experience in managing pandemic outbreaks and a suitable medical response to it, based on his work in Singapore during the SARS outbreak.

Stawell Regional Health's chief executive Kate Pryde said the clinic was developed with the region's community in mind.

"Setting up this clinic, and working with such a responsive management team, reflects a true indication of how seriously Stawell Regional health has listened to the local community," she said.

"It shows how important it is for Stawell Regional Health need to ensure residents have a local "first point of call" followed by suitable treatment and care provisions when they are worried about their health and any symptoms they may be developing.

"Our hospital has been working non-stop to ensure a successful implementation of our pandemic plan according to the Victorian State Government, and in line with this we also decided to provide this respiratory assessment service that will be here for residents if they need it, should coronavirus spread further in our communities."

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The Respiratory Assessment Centre, with appointment access only, will deal with all respiratory concerns. People who need to talk to SRH about their concerns can call 5358 8630, Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 5pm.

Outside of these hours, the Coronavirus Hotline 1800 675 398 can be used.

Residents living in Stawell or the surrounding district, and have a fever, sore throat, cough, shortness of breath, or think they may have contracted coronavirus can call for further advice.

Patients are requested, if possible, to complete the DHHS self-assessment online prior to phoning or coming to an appointment: www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus-self-assessment

On the day of the appointment, patients are to stay in their car until their appointment time. Only people with appointments may enter the clinic.

The Respiratory Assessment Clinic does not provide clearance for people who are in self-isolation and wanting to return to work regardless if a place of work has directed employees to do this.

Refer to the Department of Health and Human Services website for further information.

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