More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
These are the first pictures of a pop-up coronavirus centre at a Kent leisure centre.
Yesterday KentOnline reported how Headcorn Aerodrome had been turned in to a 'Primary Care Treatment Centre' for GP surgery patients showing signs of Covid-19.
NHS Kent and Medway Clinical Commissioning Group said Maidstone Leisure Centre, at Mote Park, had been identified as a potential site but the new images show the facility taking shape.
Various tents have been erected in the car park of the Mote Avenue venue.
Vehicles seem to be using the site but it is not known if it is up and running yet.
Patients will be referred to a Primary Care Treatment Centre, sometimes known as a ‘hot site’, by their GP or by NHS 111.
In relation to the Headcorn Aerodrome KentOnline was told no tests for the virus will be carried out at the site.
Dr Navin Kumta, GP and chair of the CCG, said: “Wherever possible, the Primary Care Treatment Centres will be established in an existing clinical building but this will vary across Kent and Medway.
"In some cases drive through facilities are being set up and buildings such as schools or leisure centres are also being used – providing they meet the criteria we have identified, which includes being easy to deep clean.
“The aim is to assess and treat patients who have Covid-19 symptoms, such as a persistent cough or a temperature over 37.8 degrees, in a safe setting and ensure patients without symptoms can be seen at the other sites with a minimal risk of infection. This includes the most vulnerable and those self-isolating.
"By reducing the chance of cross contamination we will make it safer for everyone involved and reduce the pressure on our staff, some are which are having to self-isolate, meaning we have fewer GPs in the surgeries.”
