"Recently, we have seen a significant increase in the number of people getting tested with more than 100 swabs recorded on several days," Lithgow Hospital Acting General Manager, Bronwyn Boyling said.

"While nurses have been working incredibly hard to conduct these tests, we're grateful for the patience residents have demonstrated during busy periods at the clinic and while awaiting results."

According to Ms Boyling most people will receive their results within 24 hours.

A post on social media last week went crazy when local residents complained about having to stand for hours in the cold at the COVID testing site.

One resident advised those that couldn't stand for long periods to bring their own chairs.

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Ms Boyling said that the clinic does get busy so the nurses are trying to do their best to make accommodation for older people and people with mobility issues.

"People who are not able to stand or wait for long periods are encouraged to let us know when they first present so that we may provide assistance during their time at the clinic," Ms Boyling said.

The Lithgow Hospital COVID-19 testing clinic is now open 7 days a week.

"We hope that this will help to meet the growing demand for testing within our community," she said.

"Thank you to the Lithgow community for all they're doing to help detect and prevent the spread of COVID-19.

"The high testing numbers we've been seeing are vital in detecting cases in the community and keeping us all safe."

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