THE anxiety surrounding corona virus is not just something affecting city people, so getting a test when you live in western NSW should be just as easy as it is for those in the city.
The Royal Flying Doctor Service has been working hard to provide COVID-19 clinics to those in the far west.
Its South Eastern Section has now held or assisted in holding 150 COVID-19 and respiratory clinics across the state since late May.
During this time nearly 900 patients have been seen.
Clinics have been held in a number of locations in the West and Far West of NSW, including Broken Hill, Bourke, Wilcannia, Menindee, Lightning Ridge, Ivanhoe, Collarenebri, Nyngan and Walgett.
Health Services general manager Jenny Beach said the clinics had delivered peace of mind to many communities.
"Having the ability to get a COVID-19 test in remote areas is really important," she said.
"These communities have truck drivers and travellers coming through regularly and an undetected case could have a disastrous effect on a small population.
"Our mobile COVID testing enables these small communities to remain open, and to feel safe in doing so."
RFDS primary care nurse Anita Murray is proud to be part of RFDS public health response to the COVID-19 outbreak, working at the Broken Hill Respiratory Clinic.
"Screening is so important to minimise the number of people becoming infected or sick with COVID-19," she said.
"It's a great honour to be able to provide this service to the people of regional NSW."
The not-for-profit RFDS has been taking healthcare to the furthest corners of Australia since 1928.
It provides primary healthcare and 24-hour emergency cover to 90 per cent of the Australian continent, via a modern fleet of specially equipped aircraft.
The RFDS is working closely with Western NSW Local Health District, the Federal Government and local health partners in delivering the COVID-19 clinics.
Have you signed up to The Land's free daily newsletter? Register below to make sure you are up to date with everything that's important to NSW agriculture.
