Long COVID Clinics

The Hon. J.S. LEE (15:13): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking a question of the Attorney-General, representing the Minister for Health and Wellbeing, regarding Long COVID Clinics.

Leave granted.

The Hon. J.S. LEE: The Royal Adelaide Hospital's Long COVID Clinic, now a permanent service, is reportedly treating 20 to 40 patients a day, with over 1,000 South Australians receiving care in the past year. The clinic has shifted its focus to more complex cases. While waiting times have improved, the condition continues to significantly impact patients' quality of life, employment and social participation. These patients are struggling with debilitating fatigue, brain fog and muscle weaknesses, all from long-term COVID. My questions to the minister are:

1. Can the minister provide an update on the current funding and staffing levels for the Long COVID Clinics at the Royal Adelaide Hospital and Flinders Medical Centre?

2. Can the minister explain whether the government has undertaken any study of the impact of long COVID affecting employees in the public sector?

3. What measures are in place to ensure equitable access to long COVID care for patients in regional and remote South Australia?

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Attorney-General, Minister for Industrial Relations and Public Sector, Special Minister of State) (15:14): I thank the honourable member for her question and her interest in health matters generally. I will pass those on to the health minister in another place, the Hon. Chris Picton MP, and bring back a reply.