COVID-19 test 'difficult, if not impossible' to get in Port Lincoln, authorities promise changes

After phoning 160 times to book a test, John went to the testing centre, but was told to keep ringing. (Supplied)

Frustrated Port Lincoln residents are making hundreds of calls to the city's COVID-19 testing clinic in an attempt to book a test, as health authorities work to remove a bottleneck.

The local testing centre operates by appointment only, unlike walk-in or drive-through services in other locations across South Australia.

There are 65 active cases in the Eyre Peninsula city, according to data from SA Health.

Port Lincoln resident John told the ABC he had experienced COVID-19 symptoms since Tuesday.

He phoned the clinic 160 times in an attempt to book a test but was unable to get through.

"In the end we went up there but got turned away with no appointment," and he was advised to keep ringing, he said.

"My wife finally got through about 3pm and got a booking for Friday arvo.

The Local Health Network says more people can be tested per day once the booking system is fixed. (ABC News)

Facebook user Hannan Ahmed said he made more than 200 calls to the clinic when he developed COVID symptoms but could not get through.

He said he tried to get tested in nearby Tumby Bay, but was advised that as a resident of Port Lincoln he must be tested there.

In a statement posted to social media, the Lower Eyre Family Practice said it was "increasingly difficult, if not impossible," to book a COVID-19 test in Port Lincoln.

"It has been communicated to us that this service will increase its capacity in coming days," the private clinic said.

Solution coming for 'perfect storm'

Eyre and Far North Local Health Network (LHN) chief executive Verity Paterson said the situation was a "perfect storm".

"Obviously huge demand for testing, coupled with not enough phone lines and we're not able to actually increase the number … it's an infrastructure issue," she said.

"At the moment, booking is essential because of where the clinic is located, but we are doing lots of work to fix it."

Local Health Network chief Verity Paterson has described the situation as a "perfect storm". (ABC Eyre Peninsula: Jodie Hamilton)

Ms Paterson said as of Monday, people wanting to book a COVID test within the Local Health Network would be able to call a new number, 1300 334 222.

"When you get through to that number, you first hear a recording, which tells you about eligibility.

"Once that occurs you can then speak to one of our staff who will book you in.

"We're also looking at whether we can implement an online booking system as well."

She said the LHN was also considering moving the testing clinic from the Port Lincoln hospital to a new site with fewer traffic management issues.

What to do if you're unwell and suspect you have COVID but can't get a test.