Keep our mob safe by looking after your health and acting fast if you feel sick.
How do I know if I could potentially have COVID-19?
Common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Shortness of breath
What should I do if I have these symptoms?
If you meet the criteria for testing, you should contact a doctor or 13HEALTH (13 43 25 84) immediately.
Before your appointment please call ahead and advise that you identify as Aboriginal or/and Torres Strait Islander, and have symptoms. This way they can prepare for your appointment.
Will I be tested for COVID-19?
Testing is possible for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who have a history of a fever and acute respiratory symptoms. On arrival at health service or hospital, you will be asked if you are of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander origin. We need to ask everyone and we need you to tell us to ensure we provide the best possible care for you.
West Moreton Health is working to improve the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people because there is still a large and unacceptable gap in health conditions and life expectancy.
The question: Are you of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander origin? is one of the routine questions that we ask of everybody using the service.
It isn’t right for staff to try and guess. The only way to this information right is for people to answer for themselves.
If you are not asked the questions, please let staff know.
All information collected by West Moreton Health is subject to privacy laws to ensure that your information is protected and used appropriately.
You will be asked verbally or on a form every time you come to West Moreton Health, unless you are coming in for a regular course of treatment.
The question is:
Are you of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander origin?
On forms, the options for answering are:
 |
No |
|
|
Yes, Aboriginal |
Note: Mark both boxes if you are Aboriginal |
|
Yes, Torres Strait Islander |
Some forms have an extra box:
|
Yes, both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander |
If we know that you are of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander origin, staff will be able to:
-
Give consideration to cultural needs.
-
Offer you access to the hospital liaison officer or health worker.
-
Provide information on Closing the Gap services and programs specifically available to improve health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people ie. early health checks, vaccines, chronic disease programs.
-
Improve transition care through links to local services including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community support organisations, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander medical services and Medicare Local to improve patient care and discharge planning.
-
Provide information and support to help you with making decisions and choices about your health care.
If under 15 years old or too sick to answer, a parent, guardian, carer or a responsible adult with you will be asked.
Yes, this will help us to provide the best possible care for you and your baby.