THE Barmera Hospital has been temporarily closed to inpatient admissions, effective immediately, in response to the rise of Covid-19 cases in the region.

In a statement, a Riverland Mallee Coorong Local Health Network (RMCLHN) spokesperson said the closure would allow staff to be reallocated to assist with the local Covid-19 response, including replacing staff who are currently unable to work due to the virus.

“Throughout this week, only two inpatients were cared for at Barmera Hospital, and this reduced number of admissions is a direct result of reduced hospital demand,” they said

“The reduced demand likely relates to the local community behaviour, with the Barmera and broader Riverland community doing the right thing and behaving responsibly during the current extreme heat and the Covid-19 situation.

“With the evolving Covid-19 situation, we are re-allocating staff and resources to support the delivery of services in other areas where needed, including co-located aged care services at Barmera Health Service.

“We are constantly reviewing our service needs as we respond to Covid-19 and have escalation plans in place if we need to increase hospital capacity when needed.

“We will continue to assess demand and reopen Barmera Hospital when it is needed for non Covid-19 patient care.”

During the closure, general inpatient admissions will be transferred to Renmark or Berri hospitals, while those requiring emergency attention will be taken via ambulance to the Riverland General Hospital in Berri.

“We would like to reassure the community that the safety and welfare of our patients is our highest priority and we will continue to provide patients the care and treatment they need,” the spokesperson said.

The hospital’s emergency department has been temporarily closed since April 2020 to decrease the risk of Covid-19 transmission to co-located aged care residents.