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Australians with COVID-19 and requiring community care can be accommodated at the Marion Holiday Park, as part of the Marshall Liberal Government’s strong plan to prepare for the impact of the pandemic.

As part of the initiative, Flinders Medical Centre (FMC) Hospital @ ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ nurses and specialist consultants will review and assess isolated patients and families at a larger scale in a family friendly space at the Marion Holiday Park.

The Marion Holiday Park is well equipped on 7 acres with 60 self-contained cabins, all with kitchens, bathrooms and plenty of space and open areas to support good infection control.

The partnership with FMC will include increased clinical surveillance and support, particularly for patients who deteriorate or when patients or families require significant emotional support.

Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade said the initiative would support local jobs through a challenging period, provide expert medical care and accommodation for coronavirus patients, and ease the pressure at the state’s hospitals when the peak hits.

“The Marshall Liberal Government has a laser focus on rolling out our strong plan to prepare and protect South Australians from the health and economic impacts of coronavirus,” Minister Wade said.

“Marion Holiday Park is conveniently located close to FMC allowing for rapid medical attention if required. Our Infectious diseases experts have toured the facility and highlighted the value of the separation of accommodation and facilities on the site.

“This facility will add to the 278 beds we have secured at ECH College Park, the old Wakefield Hospital, and the Repat, as part of our response to COVID-19.

“Importantly, this initiative also significantly supports the local economy by keeping South Australians employed and a big holiday park in business.”

Flinders Medical Centre is upskilling cleaning and catering staff in infection control requirements.

Southern Adelaide Local Health Network Chief Operating Officer David Morris said the initiative would be particularly important for vulnerable people with a lack of accommodation, or for individuals that have shared living arrangements and are trying to minimise the spread to loved ones around them.

“Examples include students in shared housing, family members living with elderly parents or vulnerable South Australians that just need additional support from our health services.

“By having access to clinicians remotely and direct assistance from the nearby Flinders Medical Centre, this is an excellent option for South Australians with the virus and it is completely voluntary.

“This is a win-win. It’s good for patients with mild symptoms of the virus, the health system which is trying to reduce demand on critical services and it’s a win for the local economy and small businesses in the area.

“We are thankful to Alan and Gloria from the Marion Holiday Caravan Park for their compassion and eagerness to support the health system in this time of need.”