Updated COVID-19 information and associated resources

From 8am tomorrow (Saturday 21 March), five COVID-19 testing centres will begin operating across metro Auckland.

General practice and Healthline can verbally direct patients who meet the current case definition to these centres. Be aware that initial capacity at the centres may be limited, so please be prudent when sending patients.

These clinics will operate from 8am-4pm seven days-a-week and will be dedicated to COVID-19 testing:
• Henderson Specialist Centre
• White Cross, St Lukes
• Local Doctors Airport Oaks Clinic, Mangere
• Takanini Urgent Care
• Shorecare, Northcross

Please note there are also a number of updates to the COVID-19 primary care algorithm. The updated algorithm is attached but, in summary, the key changes are:

* eNotifications of suspected patients is mandatory via the CareConnect eReferrals platform within your PMS. Do not send a fax. An eNotification will initiate a POAC referral and the detail within the eNotification will determine the level of reimbursement for primary care swabbing. See the algorithm for further detail. Please also see attached guidance on how to complete an eNotification.
* Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) is no longer following-up on negative swab results. It is now the responsibility of the clinician who ordered the test to advise patients of negative results. Please ensure this is done promptly.
* A fourth question regarding healthcare workers has been added.
* Please add all four questions to your patient portal.
* Only phone ARPHS about patients with a high index of suspicion for COVID-19.

All other queries should be directed to your PHO.

* Only a nasopharyngeal swab is needed. Throat swabs are no longer required. Please mark the lab form ‘for COVID-19 testing’ and include travel history. See attached guidance on how to take a swab and how to use personal protective equipment.