North West Health runs the Tamworth Respiratory Clinic, and chief executive officer Nick Cantwell said he would like to see federal funding extended through to at least June next year.

"We have certainty that we can continue to provide COVID testing services at the Tamworth Respiratory Clinic until the 31st of October," he told the Leader.

READ ALSO:

"But, the consensus is generally among the medical community that funding will continue to at least the end of the year, and probably beyond, but we're just awaiting that update."

Despite the COVID-free status of the Tamworth region, Mr Cantwell said the clinic is busy and testing an average of about 140 people every day.

"We're certainly not slowing down, that's for sure," he said. "In fact, if we could get more nurses and doctors, we would probably open more rooms," he said.

Tamworth Respiratory Clinic has been open since May, and has tested thousands of locals, with no positive results.

Mr Cantwell said it was still important for Tamworth locals with symptoms to be able to access the specialty clinic. He said some people needed evidence of a negative test before they could go back to work or school after being sick, and there is also a real risk the virus could return to the region.

It is understood Tamworth Respiratory Clinic will close when its funding is eventually cut.

Appointments can be booked online or by calling 6768 3288.

Our COVID-19 news articles relating to public health and safety are free for anyone to access. However, we depend on subscription revenue to support our journalism. If you are able, please subscribe here. If you are already a subscriber, thank you for your support.