This eNewsletter covers Federal and State policy and legislative developments in the area of health. Copies of documents referred to can be obtained by clicking on the reference in this Newsletter or through Capital Monitor's collection at www.capitalmonitor.com.au or from the source quoted.
Major Announcements
Aged Care
27 February
Time for government to act on aged care staffing crisis - care can't wait
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) called on the Federal Government to act immediately to fix the crisis in the aged care workforce, following the recommendations of the Counsel Assisting the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. 'Care can't wait,' AMA President, Dr Tony Bartone, said. 'The submission by the Counsel Assisting clearly identifies the need for minimum staff-to-resident ratios, 24/7 nurse availability, and mandatory minimum qualifications for personal care workers'.
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26 February
WA: Grants to foster age-friendly communities
More than $190,000 will be made available to 18 Western Australian organisations, including local governments, to implement age-friendly, positive ageing and dementia-friendly strategies. Western Australian Minister for Seniors and Ageing Mick Murray announced the recipients of the State Government's Age-friendly and Dementia-friendly Communities Grants Program for 2019-20. The program fosters the development of age-friendly communities, where people are respected, feel safe and have opportunities for social, cultural and economic participation in community life as they age. Eligible organisations can apply for grants to support age-friendly planning and implementation of community priorities and recommendations.
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24 February
Major Albury Tri State aged care conference focuses on reform, funding and being prepared for bushfires
A major Albury aged care conference spanning three states will focus on reform and delivering the best care for older Australians, with a special forum on preparing for catastrophic emergencies like the recent bushfire crisis. Leading Age Services Australia (LASA), is hosting the two-day Tri State Conference, with hundreds of aged care representatives attending from Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania. The special Learnings from a Catastrophic Emergency forum will see a broad panel of care professionals and emergency experts who helped people through the firestorms tell their stories and contribute to better planning to help ensure future survival.
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Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety
25 February
Adelaide Hearing 4 to focus on future aged care program redesign
The Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety will hold a hearing in Adelaide on the morning of Wednesday 4 March 2020 for the purpose of hearing submissions from Senior Counsel Assisting, Peter Gray QC, on aged care program redesign. The submissions that Mr Gray QC is expected to make will address central elements of program design in light of Consultation Paper 1 - Aged care program redesign: services for the future and evidence from witnesses at Adelaide Workshop 1. These will include: information and navigation, care assessment, 'care finders', reablement, respite, and aged care settings.
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21 February
Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality & Safety
21 FEB: Transcript of Proceedings - Adelaide - Day 76
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Allied Health
24 February
Leg fractures: Discharge destination may impact recovery
Outcomes for patients with isolated lower limb fractures may be better for those discharged to their home rather than to inpatient rehabilitation, according to a large observational study published online by the Medical Journal of Australia (MJA). The study, led by Alfred Hospital senior physiotherapist Dr Lara Kimmel, analysed data from adults (18-64 years old) who were treated for isolated lower limb fractures at four Melbourne trauma hospitals that contribute data to the Victorian Orthopaedic Trauma Outcomes Registry between 1 March 2007 and 31 March 2016. 'Of 7961 eligible patients, 1432 (18%) were discharged to inpatient rehabilitation, and 6775 (85%) were followed up 12 months after their injuries,' Kimmel and colleagues reported.
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Children's Health
23 February
SA: Better Services at the Women's and Children's Hospital
Families and children from around the state will now have access to better services following the completion of stage one of a $3.5 million upgrade to the Women's and Children's Hospital. South Australian Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade said the Paediatric Emergency Department redevelopment upgrade forms part of a $50 million sustainment project which will ensure South Australian children continue to receive high quality care in today's hospital as Australia plans and builds the hospital of tomorrow. 'The completion of this project is another step in the Marshall Liberal Government's mission to deliver better patient services closer to home,' Mr Wade said.
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Clinical Governance
26 February
QLD: New lung disease hotline now open for mine workers
A new one-stop-shop support service for current and former mine and quarry workers in Queensland will be announced, said the Queensland Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy. The new confidential hotline - 1300 445 715 - will kick off on Monday, 2 March to give current and former mine workers faster access to the services they need. Easy access to accurate workplace health information and free services is essential for concerned and affected workers and their families.
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25 February
A year overdue, where's the apology to thalidomide survivors?
The Government has now taken twelve months to respond to the Senate's 2018 inquiry into Support for Australia's Thalidomide Survivors, said Shadow Minister for the NDIS Bill Shorten. The final report was tabled in March 2019 and made 11 recommendations including a national apology and additional support to enable thalidomide survivors to live with their disabilities. Last year, along with survivors, Labor requested an urgent response to this Inquiry, said Shadow Minister for Health Chris Bowen. 'This Government has been sitting on these recommendations for one year with no view to respond.'
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Libs must rule out another robodebt
The Federal Government must add important safeguards to digital welfare reforms to ensure there is never a repeat of its cruel, disastrous and illegal Robodebt system, said Shadow Minister Shorten. Labor has proposed measures for greater government oversight and human intervention to prevent another Robodebt. For three years the Government has pursued thousands of innocent Australians with false or inflated debts arrived at by a malfunctioning algorithm, said Shadow Minister for Families and Social Services Linda Burney. The system - which internal emails reveal the Government knows is illegal - was the result of inaccurate income averaging practices and a lack of human oversight.
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QLD: Improving prison safety through better health
The safety of officers will increase in Queensland prisons as Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) and Queensland Health develop and implement the Prisoner Health and Wellbeing Strategy. QCS is working closely with Queensland Health on the strategy with the main focus being to provide prisoners with healthcare that is equivalent to what they can receive in the Queensland community. The aim of the strategy is to identify ways to reduce barriers, improve efficiency and effectiveness, increase integration between different departments and stakeholders, assist prisoners in taking responsibility for their own health and make healthy choices more accessible to prisoners.
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24 February
National approach needed to smoke pollution advice
It is time for an independent national expert committee on air pollution and health protection to be established to support environmental health decision-making in Australia, according to the authors of a Perspective published online by the Medical Journal of Australia (MJA). Professor Sotiris Vardoulakis, Professor of Global Environmental Health at National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health at the Australian National University, and colleagues, made the recommendation on the back of a bushfire season that saw Sydney and other major population centres blanketed in a smoke for long periods of time.
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New Zealand vaping legislation is a wake up call for Australia
The Australian Retail Vaping Industry Association (ARVIA), a member group of the Australian Retailers Association (ARA), has strongly endorsed the New Zealand government's proposed vaping legislation, which provides a sensible and risk-proportionate framework allowing for the sale of nicotine vaping products to adults. ARA Executive Director Russell Zimmerman said New Zealand has taken a mature and evidence-based approach to nicotine vaping, and recognises vaping and e-cigarette products are significantly less harmful than traditional combustible cigarettes.
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Alcohol too easy for minors to buy online
Tougher laws for online alcohol sales are needed to prevent under-18s and people with an alcohol dependency from buying liquor at the touch of a button, UNSW public health researchers say. Buying liquor online is just too easy, new University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney research has found. In an Australian first, public health researchers examined the sales, marketing and delivery practices of the 65 most popular online alcohol retailers in Australia, and the easy access to liquor - for anybody willing to buy it - shocked them. Study co-author and UNSW Master of Public Health graduate Stephanie Colbert said that regulation had fallen behind the rapid growth in online alcohol sales in Australia.
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Construction and Health Infrastructure
None this edition.
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Dental
27 February
Bandt announces new portfolios, elevates dental health
Leader of The Australian Greens Adam Bandt has announced new portfolio allocations, including the creation of a new portfolio of Dental Health, which will focus on the Greens' long-held goal of ensuring that all Australians have fully funded dental care provided through Medicare. 'I'm excited to announce our new portfolio allocations, especially the creation of a Dental Health portfolio, which will be held by Sen. Sarah Hanson-Young,' Mr Bandt said. 'Getting dental into Medicare is unfinished business for the Greens. In the 2010 power-sharing Parliament we secured Medicare dental for 3.4 million children and now we want it for everyone else too'.
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24 February
Dental body backs senator's motion calling for better publicly-funded dental care
The Australian Dental Association (ADA) is calling on the Government to support calls by Senator Stirling Griff to work with state governments to provide more Medicare-funded dental care for all children, pensioners and welfare recipients. 'The ADA applauds the Senator for his motion due to be tabled (Monday 24th February), seeking to increase publicly-funded dental care and improve 'shocking rates of preventable oral health disease and hospital admissions,'' said Dr Carmelo Bonanno, ADA President. The motion adds to the growing chorus of voices urging Canberra to do more to ensure a higher number of Australians have access to dental services.
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Disabilities
27 February
Greater support for Australians with an intellectual disability
Minister for Health Greg Hunt said Australians with an intellectual disability will soon receive greater support, thanks to a Government $6.5 million investment in the Primary Care Enhancement Program. The funding (GST exclusive) will be provided over four financial years (2020-21 to 2023-24) under the Primary Health Networks (PHN) Program, for development of the Primary Care Enhancement Program (PCEP). The Enhancement Program will be developed through four lead Primary Health Networks, with a view to a national rollout across all PHNs. The Program will increase the skills and ability of GPs and other health professionals to provide effective health care for people with intellectual disability.
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24 February
Respite care provider in need of reform
The Registrar of Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC), Selwyn Button placed the Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Corporation for Disabled and Respite Care under special administration. Located in Townsville, Queensland, the corporation was established in 1988 to give clients respite from their usual routines and carers a break from their caring responsibilities. The centre was designed to provide a feeling of home away from home, and succeeded in that by attracting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and ensuring a culturally appropriate service. The centre is a registered provider with the National Disability Insurance Agency and offers a range of services for adults who have a disability.
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VIC: Nominations now open for 10th Disability Awards
Victorians are encouraged to nominate community members that are making an outstanding contribution to the lives of people with disability for the 10th annual Victorian Disability Awards. Victorian Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Luke Donnellan encouraged Victorians to nominate people and organisations who are making a real difference in the disability sector - recognising their hard work, innovation and dedication. Mr Donnellan said: 'The Victorian Disability Awards recognise the achievements of people that lead the way in creating a fairer, more inclusive Victoria.'
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Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability
None this edition.
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E-Health
None this edition.
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Education and Training
26 February
TAS: More graduate nurses start their career
Tasmanian Minister for Health Sarah Courtney said the Tasmanian Government is committed to building a better health system for all Tasmanians. 'We want more Tasmanians to be able to start their careers in our health system, and we know how important it is to provide opportunities for new graduates,' said Ms Courtney. 'This is why the Government is employing record numbers of graduate nurses as part of our strong plan for health, delivering our election commitment to boost the Transition to Practice Program with more graduate nurses in every region.'
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Funding
27 February
Greater support for Australians with an intellectual disability
Minister for Health Greg Hunt said Australians with an intellectual disability will soon receive greater support, thanks to a Government $6.5 million investment in the Primary Care Enhancement Program. The funding (GST exclusive) will be provided over four financial years (2020-21 to 2023-24) under the Primary Health Networks (PHN) Program, for development of the Primary Care Enhancement Program (PCEP). The Enhancement Program will be developed through four lead Primary Health Networks, with a view to a national rollout across all PHNs. The Program will increase the skills and ability of GPs and other health professionals to provide effective health care for people with intellectual disability.
Download
25 February
$2 million for vital coronavirus research
Applications have opened for the Government's $2 million grant opportunity to support research into development of a vaccine to protect against novel coronavirus (COVID- 19), said Minister Hunt. COVID-19 represents a significant and urgent threat to global health, with the overwhelming majority of cases in Wuhan City in China, and increasing numbers in other countries, including Australia. The objective of this open and competitive grant opportunity is to accelerate research into development of a safe, effective vaccine against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID- 19. Given the rapidly evolving nature of the COVID-19 outbreak, applicants must propose research that will support the rapid development of a vaccine.
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State of the Health Funds Report 2019
Commonwealth Ombudsman Michael Manthorpe PSM released the State of the Health Funds report detailing comparative information on the performance and service delivery of health funds during 2018-19. The Office received 4,042 complaints during 2018-19, an 11 per cent decrease on the previous year's 4,553. Concerns about Benefits, Membership and Service were the major cause of complaints to the Office. One of the significant complaint issues was a Benefit issue-unexpected hospital policy exclusions and restrictions. 'Some basic and budget levels of hospital cover exclude or restrict services that many consumers assume are routine treatments or standard items' Mr Manthorpe said.
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24 February
$900,000 commitment to support families dealing with alcohol and drug issues
Minister Hunt said the Government is providing $900,000 to Family Drug Support Australia so it can continue providing a free 24-hour support line for families dealing with drug issues. 'International Family Drug Support Day gives everyone a chance to show their support to families caring for a loved one experiencing harm from drugs or alcohol, helping to reinforce that there should be no stigma or shame for these families' said Mr Hunt. 'The funding announced will help Family Drug Support to continue providing a 24-hour national toll free telephone service for people who need advice, information or assistance'.
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Health Professionals
27 February
Time for government to act on aged care staffing crisis - care can't wait
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) called on the Federal Government to act immediately to fix the crisis in the aged care workforce, following the recommendations of the Counsel Assisting the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. 'Care can't wait,' AMA President, Dr Tony Bartone, said. 'The submission by the Counsel Assisting clearly identifies the need for minimum staff-to-resident ratios, 24/7 nurse availability, and mandatory minimum qualifications for personal care workers'.
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NSW: Community urged to help prevent coronavirus
The Government is asking individuals and businesses to take steps to prepare for a possible COVID-19 pandemic converging with winter flu in the coming months. New South Wales Minister for Health Minister Brad Hazzard and Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said NSW Health has planned extensively for a pandemic and further strengthened its response since the SARS, MERS and H1N1 'swine flu' threats, but everyone plays a role in prevention. 'Simple hygiene measures like regular hand washing, sneezing into your elbow and, most importantly, staying home when sick, will not only help ease ED presentations for flu but also support existing COVID-19 pandemic plans,' Mr Hazzard said.
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24 February
Leg fractures: Discharge destination may impact recovery
Outcomes for patients with isolated lower limb fractures may be better for those discharged to their home rather than to inpatient rehabilitation, according to a large observational study published online by the Medical Journal of Australia (MJA). The study, led by Alfred Hospital senior physiotherapist Dr Lara Kimmel, analysed data from adults (18-64 years old) who were treated for isolated lower limb fractures at four Melbourne trauma hospitals that contribute data to the Victorian Orthopaedic Trauma Outcomes Registry between 1 March 2007 and 31 March 2016. 'Of 7961 eligible patients, 1432 (18%) were discharged to inpatient rehabilitation, and 6775 (85%) were followed up 12 months after their injuries,' Kimmel and colleagues reported.
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22 February
Facilitating Chinese-based students to attend Year 11 and 12
Minister for Education Dan Tehan, Minister for Health Greg Hunt, Victorian Minister for Education James Merlino and Australian Chief Medical Officer Professor Brendan Murphy said senior high school students who remain in China due to Australian travel restrictions have been offered a strict pathway to resume their studies in recognition of the importance of the final two years of school. Year 11 and Year 12 students who are completing their senior secondary schooling can apply for an exemption to the 1 Feb 2020 COVID19 travel restrictions applied to foreign nationals who have been in mainland China.
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Hospitals
27 February
TAS: No compromise on patient services
Tasmanian Minister for Health Sarah Courtney said 'in the interest of keeping the community informed I announce that Tasmania's largest ever health infrastructure project, the $689 million RHH redevelopment has been delayed in the final stages of practical completion'. Ms Courtney said 'My advice is K-Block is currently not to the standard required, so we will not be taking possession from the contractor John Holland Fairbrother until this situation is rectified'. Ms Courtney said patients will only receive health care in K-Block when it is certified safe, and staff are ready and able to deliver services in the new state-of-the-art facility.
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TAS: Gutwein and Courtney's Royal embarrassment
After another embarrassing back-down, it is clear that Peter Gutwein and Sarah Courtney have no idea when new beds will be opened and available for patients at the Royal Hobart Hospital, Tasmanian Shadow Health Minister Sarah Lovell said. 'The Liberals announced that they would not meet their latest deadline for practical completion of the hospital, after claiming as recently as Saturday that it was on track' said Ms Lovell. 'This was either a straight up lie or mismanagement of the highest order, or more likely, both. We have been told for six months that the hospital would be opened imminently, and beds would be open to patients'.
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26 February
Sports injuries make their mark on Aussies
Almost 60,000 Australians were admitted to hospital for injuries sustained while playing sport in 2016-17, according to a new report by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). The report, Hospitalised sports injury, Australia, 2016-17, finds that almost one-third (32%) of all hospitalised sports injuries were sustained while playing one of the various codes of football. 'Many Australians participate regularly in sport and physical recreation activities, and it's clear that we are a nation of sport-lovers,' said spokesperson Professor James Harrison from the AIHW's National Injury Surveillance Unit, based at Flinders University.
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SA: Better Patient Services for Regional SA
Eyre Peninsula residents will soon have access to better health services as work begins on an upgraded Renal Dialysis Unit at Whyalla Hospital. South Australian Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade, said that the $3.6 million upgraded facility will provide a larger treatment space that will improve the wellbeing of patients and ensure they are able to receive the best possible care closer to home. 'There is a high demand for renal dialysis treatment in the Whyalla region. This expansion and upgrade will ensure local patients can continue to receive high quality care but get it closer to their home,' Mr Wade said
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NT: Diamond Princess evacuee update
The NT Department of Health said a 61-year-old woman from New South Wales is being transferred from Howard Springs Quarantine Facility to Royal Darwin Hospital for investigation of a cardiac condition. 'She will remain in isolation during her admission and be tested as a matter of process for COVID-19 infection. The man transferred to RDH remains in isolation in hospital. He tested negative for COVID-19 but is continuing to receive treatment for a pre-existing chronic condition,' said the Department. 'There is one person in isolation at Howard Springs following screening undergoing testing for COVID-19 infection.'
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25 February
NT: Diamond Princess evacuee update
An elderly gentleman from Victoria is being transferred from the Howard Springs facility to Royal Darwin Hospital for management of a deterioration in a chronic condition, said NT Department of Health. He will be isolated throughout the admission process and immediately tested for COVID-19 infection. A further update will be provided in due course. There were no people isolated overnight for symptoms of infection and the daily screening is currently underway. The number of COVID-19 infections among the Diamond Princess evacuees remains at seven and all of these people have been retrieved to interstate hospitals.
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23 February
SA: Better Services at the Women's and Children's Hospital
Families and children from around the state will now have access to better services following the completion of stage one of a $3.5 million upgrade to the Women's and Children's Hospital. South Australian Minister Wade said the Paediatric Emergency Department redevelopment upgrade forms part of a $50 million sustainment project which will ensure South Australian children continue to receive high quality care in today's hospital as Australia plans and builds the hospital of tomorrow. 'The completion of this project is another step in the Marshall Liberal Government's mission to deliver better patient services closer to home,' Mr Wade said.
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22 February
Four more Diamond Princess Passengers test positive for COVID-19
Chief Medical Officer Professor Brendan Murphy said the careful health screening of the 164 people from the Diamond Princess Cruise ship continues at the quarantine facility at the Manigurr-ma Village in Darwin. 'Since arrival at Manigurr-Ma, a total of 17 people who have shown mild respiratory symptoms have now been tested after being isolated at the facility. Four additional people have now tested positive, bringing the total number of people returning from the Diamond Princess to test positive to coronavirus to six,' said Ms Murphy. 'Two of these people will return to their home state of Queensland and two to their home state of Victoria for isolation and care.'
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NT: COVID-19 update - Diamond Princess evacuees
The NT Department of Health said the number of confirmed cases of novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) among the Australian evacuees from the Diamond Princess reached seven. A Queenslander will remain in isolation overnight at the Howard Springs Manigurr-ma evacuation centre before being repatriated home by the Queensland Health team. Four Australians flew from Darwin to their home states of Victoria and Queensland after returning positive tests for COVID-19. 'Under an arrangement with other jurisdictions, any evacuee in Manigurr-ma who tests positive is being medically transported to their home state for further care,' Acting NT Chief Health Officer Dr Dianne Stephens said.
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WA: Geraldton Health Campus redevelopment: new milestones reached
The Western Australian Government's $73.3 million Geraldton Health Campus redevelopment has reached two significant milestones with the release of the forward works tender as well as the finalisation of the schematic design. The overall layout of the redevelopment has now been approved and the project moves to the next phase where finer details are confirmed, including fittings and equipment. Western Australian Minister for Health and Mental Health Roger Cook said: 'Following my visit to the Geraldton Health Campus last month, I'm now pleased to confirm schematic design has been finalised and the tender for the forward works package has been released.'
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21 February
ACT: ACT Government entirely responsible for health crisis
The ACT Government is entirely responsible for the ACT's health crisis, ACT Shadow Minister for Health Vicki Dunne said. Ms Dunne said it has been revealed that four in five patients requiring urgent medical attention at the Canberra Hospital emergency department are not seen on time and nurses working overtime are facing pay cuts, despite the incredibly long and stressful hours they work. 'The ACT Government abandoned Canberra's health system years ago,' Ms Dunne said. 'We were once among the top performers, now we are infamously the worst health system in Australia'.
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Insurance
25 February
25 FEB 2020: DEPT OF HEALTH: Private Health Insurance Circular PHI 15/20 - Hospital Declaration and Second-Tier Updates
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Medicare
None this edition.
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Men's Health
None this edition.
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Mental Health
27 February
Government urged to help Australians driven to suicide by skin condition
Australians living with an excruciatingly painful skin condition that forces many to survive on a few hours of broken sleep a night are being placed at increased risk of suicide because life-changing therapy remains out of reach in Australia. Eczema Support Australia Managing Director, Melanie Funk has written to the Federal Government's suicide prevention advisor, Christine Morgan, calling for urgent reimbursement of a biologic medicine for severe eczema as a suicide prevention measure. The letter includes examples of numerous Australians who have contemplated or attempted suicide due to the distress caused by the unrelenting skin condition and delays in access to breakthrough therapy that is widely available overseas.
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26 February
VIC: Mental health support for drought affected communities
People in Mildura and across regional Victoria will get more mental health support, with the extension of Mildura's successful suicide prevention program and additional funding for drought affected communities across the state. Victorian Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley visited Mildura to announce the Government is extending the city's place-based suicide prevention trial, which is helping develop plans to reduce suicides and deliver effective suicide prevention at a local level. Through the Roses in the Ocean group, 12 people received support to contribute their lived experience and safely tell their personal stories, said Victorian Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp.
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25 February
QLD: First look at new acute mental health facilities for Cairns
The look of a brand new, state of the art mental health facility for Cairns has been unveiled after Member for Cairns Michael Healy and Queensland Minister for Health Steven Miles released the artist impressions ahead of construction starting. Mr Healy said it was a first look at the designs for the new $70 million multi-storey mental health unit at the Cairns Hospital which would provide a massive boost to health care in far north Queensland. 'This is what the Queensland State Government is all about, delivering more and better health services for the people of Cairns and Far North Queensland, while also supporting the local economy.'
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24 February
Pets supporting better mental health
The research by Medibank Pet Insurance of more than 1000 people nationally, found that 92 per cent of women surveyed and 88 per cent of men surveyed feel their pets have a psychological benefit. Almost 50 per cent of Australians will have a mental health issue in their lifetime but 54 per cent will not access any treatment. Medibank's findings are backed up by a recent UK study which found that 60 per cent of participants placed their pets in the central circle of support when given a diagram to illustrate their support network. A further 20 per cent put their pet in the second circle.
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NSW: World expert to help NSW bushfire recovery
One of the world's leading experts on the mental health and social impacts of disaster will help lead long term recovery in the aftermath of NSW's devastating bushfires. New South Wales Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor and Member for Bega Andrew Constance were joined by Professor Alexander McFarlane AO as they led a meeting with stakeholders working to deliver recovery efforts across NSW. Ms Taylor said the experience of Professor McFarlane will be invaluable, especially as the diverse needs of communities change over time.
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22 February
VIC: Giving back to dedicated veterans
The Government is doing more to support Victoria's veteran community by upgrading a dedicated mental health precinct. Victorian Minister for Veterans Robin Scott was at Austin Health's Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital and announced $75,000 to refurbish the outdoor area of the Coral-Balmoral Building. It forms part of the hospital's dedicated mental health precinct. 'The Government is investing $1 million to the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia so that they can continue their important work supporting members to be healthy, happy and to participate in society' said Mr Scott.
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Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System
None this edition.
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Pharmaceuticals
28 February
More contraceptive choice for Australian women
Minister for Health Greg Hunt said Australian women will soon have access to a new form of contraceptive with the Government a new listing on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). On March 1, Kyleena (levonorgestrel), a long-acting reversible hormone-releasing intrauterine system (IUS) contraceptive, will be listed on the PBS for the first time, giving Australian women more choice. This is the first new form of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) to be subsidised on the PBS in more than 15 years and will provide Australian women with greater choice.
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27 February
Ferric carboxymaltose and low blood phosphorous
The Department of Health, Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) said health professionals are reminded that symptomatic hypophosphataemia is a known risk associated with use of ferric carboxymaltose and recommend that health professionals routinely evaluate patient risk factors before commencing this medicine and follow up at-risk patients. Ferric carboxymaltose is marketed in Australia under the brand name Ferinject. It is administered intravenously for treatment of iron deficiency when oral iron preparations are ineffective or cannot be used. The diagnosis must be based on laboratory tests. Ferric carboxymaltose is known to cause mild asymptomatic transient hypophosphataemia. Ferric carboxymaltose is also associated with a rare risk of severe, symptomatic hypophosphataemia.
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Update - fluoroquinolone antibiotics and adverse events
The TGA said following the April 2019 MSU article regarding fluoroquinolone antibiotics and risk of aortic aneurysm/dissection, the Product Information (PI) for fluoroquinolone antibiotics have been updated to include more information about various potential adverse events. Fluoroquinolones are broad-spectrum antibiotics that are active against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Fluoroquinolone antibiotics marketed in Australia include:
- ciprofloxacin
- norfloxacin
- moxifloxacin.
The TGA investigated a safety signal relating to the rare but serious potential adverse event of aortic aneurysm and dissection associated with these medicines. An aortic aneurysm is an abnormal dilation of the main artery in the body that can in some circumstances rupture or dissect.
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26 February
Independent review of the reforms to the therapeutic goods advertising framework to commence
The TGA said an independent review of the advertising reforms (the Review) has now commenced, and is being led by Ms Rosemary Sinclair AM. In February 2018 Minister for Health Greg Hunt committed to a review of the impact of the new advertising measures within two years from the commencement of the Therapeutic Goods Amendment (2017 Measures No.1) Act 2018. The Review may also advise on whether further changes to the management of the regulation of therapeutic goods advertising, including complaints, are required.
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25 February
Brexit, implications for therapeutic goods in Australia
The United Kingdom (UK) exited the European Union (EU) on 31 January 2020. A transition period is in effect until the end of 2020 while the UK and EU negotiate additional arrangements, said the TGA. The current rules, including those for therapeutic goods, for the UK and EU will continue to apply during the transition period. The exit agreement included provision for an extension of the transition time frame or one or two years, should this be required. The advice covers the implications for Australia during the transition period, and anticipated action at the end of the transition period.
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21 February
Measuring blood pressure
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia (PGA) said blood pressure monitoring is one of the most common health services offered in community pharmacy, and a role that is often performed by pharmacy assistants. 'Understanding the correct technique for blood pressure monitoring is essential to providing a safe and quality service. However it is just as important for pharmacy assistants to be able to interpret the results, communicate these to patients, and recognise when it is appropriate to seek further health advice from the pharmacist. Guild Learning and Development has announced the launch of a new online course for pharmacy assistants called 'Measuring blood pressure'' said the PGA.
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Research
26 February
Paediatric asthma: NPS MedicineWise breathing new life into diagnosis and management
With a 2019 Australian study finding that only just over half (54%) of children treated in general practice were managed following Australian and international paediatric asthma clinical practice guidelines, the latest educational program from NPS MedicineWise launching will provide an opportunity for health professionals to refresh their knowledge about basic principles in diagnosing and managing asthma for children of different ages. Children are not 'small adults' and treatment approaches may be different to those of adolescents and adults. When it comes to asthma, a definitive diagnosis may not be possible for young children, which can lead to an incorrect or missed diagnosis of asthma.
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QLD: Pioneering spinal cord injury research gets $5.7m boost
The Queensland Government has delivered a $5.7 million boost to world-leading Queensland research into developing cell-based therapy to treat spinal cord injuries. Queensland Deputy Premier and Treasurer Jackie Trad said the funding boost will help Griffith University researchers and continue ground-breaking work into spinal cord injury treatment. 'The funding boost more than doubles the Government's investment in this project, which has already led to a number of promising outcomes relating to nerve repair around the spinal cord,' Ms Trad said. 'This has also opened up the potential application to other parts of the body affected by peripheral nerve injury including the brain.'
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25 February
$2 million for vital coronavirus research
Applications have opened for the Government's $2 million grant opportunity to support research into development of a vaccine to protect against novel coronavirus (COVID- 19), said Minister for Health Greg Hunt. COVID-19 represents a significant and urgent threat to global health, with the overwhelming majority of cases in Wuhan City in China, and increasing numbers in other countries, including Australia. The objective of this open and competitive grant opportunity is to accelerate research into development of a safe, effective vaccine against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID- 19. Given the rapidly evolving nature of the COVID-19 outbreak, applicants must propose research that will support the rapid development of a vaccine.
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24 February
Sapphire Launch
The National Health & Medial Research Council (NHMRC) is excited to announce the launch of the new NHMRC grant management solution, Sapphire. Researchers and RAOs will have access to view and update their profile information in Sapphire. Information on how to access Sapphire is available on the NHRMC Website. NHMRC copied RGMS users' CV/Profile data from RGMS for migration into Sapphire on Wednesday 12 February 2020 after 5.00pm (AEDT). Any changes made to an RGMS profile after this date has not been replicated in Sapphire.
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Leg fractures: Discharge destination may impact recovery
Outcomes for patients with isolated lower limb fractures may be better for those discharged to their home rather than to inpatient rehabilitation, according to a large observational study published online by the Medical Journal of Australia (MJA). The study, led by Alfred Hospital senior physiotherapist Dr Lara Kimmel, analysed data from adults (18-64 years old) who were treated for isolated lower limb fractures at four Melbourne trauma hospitals that contribute data to the Victorian Orthopaedic Trauma Outcomes Registry between 1 March 2007 and 31 March 2016. 'Of 7961 eligible patients, 1432 (18%) were discharged to inpatient rehabilitation, and 6775 (85%) were followed up 12 months after their injuries,' Kimmel and colleagues reported.
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Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Rupture less crucial than previously thought
Australian patients with ruptured hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) should be treated with the aim of long-term survival, even though mortality caused by rupture in Asian countries is 25-75%, according to the authors of a research letter published online by the MJA. The 5-year survival rate for HCC is about 16%, the authors wrote. Tumour rupture is a life-threatening complication and the third most common cause of death for people with HCC. The Melbourne researchers, led by Dr Natassia Tan, from Alfred Health, and colleagues from Monash University, Austin Hospital, Royal Melbourne Hospital, and Eastern Health, set out to investigate the impact of spontaneous HCC rupture on survival.
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Rural, Regional and Remote Health
26 February
Alice Springs to host rural health symposium
Leading rural health researchers from across Australia will gather in Alice Springs on 25-26 May 2020 for the 7th Rural and Remote Health Scientific Symposium. The biennial Symposium has the theme 'shaping the future' - bringing together researchers, policymakers and the not-for-profit sector to help shape the future of rural health research. 'The Symposium is an important event on the calendar of many people in the rural health sector,' said National Rural Health Alliance (NRHA) CEO Dr Gabrielle O'Kane.
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VIC: Mental health support for drought affected communities
People in Mildura and across regional Victoria will get more mental health support, with the extension of Mildura's successful suicide prevention program and additional funding for drought affected communities across the state. Victorian Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley visited Mildura to announce the Government is extending the city's place-based suicide prevention trial, which is helping develop plans to reduce suicides and deliver effective suicide prevention at a local level. Through the Roses in the Ocean group, 12 people received support to contribute their lived experience and safely tell their personal stories, said Victorian Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp.
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Women's Health
28 February
More contraceptive choice for Australian women
Minister for Health Greg Hunt said Australian women will soon have access to a new form of contraceptive with the Government a new listing on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). On March 1, Kyleena (levonorgestrel), a long-acting reversible hormone-releasing intrauterine system (IUS) contraceptive, will be listed on the PBS for the first time, giving Australian women more choice. This is the first new form of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) to be subsidised on the PBS in more than 15 years and will provide Australian women with greater choice.
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NSW: Affordable choices crucial to reproductive health
Family Planning NSW has welcomed the upcoming Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme listing of Kyleena, the first long-acting, reversible contraceptive to receive a government subsidy in 15 years.
Family Planning NSW Medical Director Dr Deborah Bateson said it was wonderful to see a new contraceptive choice due to be subsidised and available for Australian women. 'We know these longer-term contraceptive options are highly effective at preventing unplanned pregnancies and in the longer term are very affordable. Having a new contraceptive choice with a Government subsidy, available to women, is a real win for people looking to take control of their fertility,' Dr Bateson said.
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27 February
Pregnancy warning labels on alcoholic beverages
Wine Australia said Food Standards Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ) have approved a draft amendment to the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (the Code) to require a pregnancy warning label on packaged alcoholic beverages sold in Australia and New Zealand. Food Ministers have 60 days following notification date (17 February 2020) to decide whether to request a review of the draft. If no review is requested, the amendment will be gazetted and become law. The draft variation has two transitional arrangements. First, there is a general transitional arrangement (commencing when the amendment becomes law) allowing a two-year period where products may be sold with or without a pregnancy warning label.
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23 February
SA: Better Services at the Women's and Children's Hospital
Families and children from around the state will now have access to better services following the completion of stage one of a $3.5 million upgrade to the Women's and Children's Hospital. South Australian Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade said the Paediatric Emergency Department redevelopment upgrade forms part of a $50 million sustainment project which will ensure South Australian children continue to receive high quality care in today's hospital as Australia plans and builds the hospital of tomorrow. 'The completion of this project is another step in the Marshall Liberal Government's mission to deliver better patient services closer to home,' Mr Wade said.
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Transcripts
Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Simon Birmingham
27 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Janine Perrett, 2GB Money News
Subjects: Coronavirus COVID-19, Pandemic, Health, China, Trade, India-Australia trade relations, Tourism, Travel ban, TPP, FTA
Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Simon Birmingham
27 FEB: Transcript of Speech at the Asia Society, Mumbai
Subjects: Australia-India relationship, Agribusiness, Coronavirus, Economic growth
Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Minister for Health Greg Hunt, Deputy Chief Medical Officer
27 FEB: : Transcript of Press Conference, Parliament House, ACT
Subjects: Coronavirus, Pandemic, Emergency Response Plan, China travel ban, National security, Hospitals, Economy, Housing, Manufacturing
Minister for Women and Foreign Affairs Marise Payne
27 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Sabra Lane, ABC AM
Subjects: Hannah Clarke, Domestic & Family Violence, Women, Coronavirus, Health, National Security, ABF, Defence
Shadow Assistant Minister for Financial Services Matt Thistlethwaite
27 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Chris Kenny, Sky News
Subjects: Coronavirus, Australia-China trade, Climate change, Emissions reduction, Paris Accord, Budget surplus
Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson
27 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Alan Jones, 2GB
Subjects: Class Action for PFAS Contamination, Health, Williamtown, Cancer
Minister for Health Greg Hunt
26 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Andrew Bolt, Sky News
Subjects: COVID-19, Coronavirus, Policy response, Quarantine, Vaccine development progress, Animal experimentation
Minister for Health Greg Hunt and Chief Medical Officer
26 FEB: Transcript of Press Conference, Canberra
Subjects: Coronavirus, Travel advisory for northern Italy, Diamond Princess cruise ship, WHO, Potential of school and workplace closures, Aged care, Olympic Games
Minister for Education Dan Tehan
26 FEB: Speech to the Universities Australia Conference, Canberra
Subjects: Coronavirus, International students, Public health safety, Regional university students, Higher education, Graduate pathways, Academic reviews, Graduate employment
Treasurer Josh Frydenberg
26 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Fran Kelly, RN Breakfast, ABC Radio
Subjects: Economic impact of Coronavirus, Health, Travel ban, China, GDP, Budget Outcomes, Surplus, Tax cuts, Trade, Climate Change, Emissions, G20 meeting, ARENA
Treasurer Josh Frydenberg
26 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Alan Jones, 2GB Radio, Sydney
Subjects: Budget surplus, Bushfire recovery fund, Bega Valley, Mental health, Water infrastructure, Dairy industry, Foreign Investment Review Board, China
Minister for Regional Health, Regional Communications and Local Government Mark Coulton
26 FEB: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Gift of life Walk, Lake Burley Griffin
Subjects: Canberra DonateLife Walk, Organ donations, Donor registration, Need for more people to register
Shadow Minister for Education and Training Tanya Plibersek
26 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Fran Kelly, RN Breakfast
Subjects: Apprenticeships, Trade training, Unemployment rates, TAFE funding, Coronavirus, Public health safety, Domestic and family violence
Shadow Minister for Health Chris Bowen
26 FEB: Transcript of Speech to the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia, Canberra
Subjects: Closing of the Gap report, Pharmacist, Report on Medicine Safety in Aged Care, National Health Priority Area
Shadow Minister for Health Chris Bowen
26 FEB: Transcript of Address to the Rare Voices Australia Launch of the National Strategic Action Plan for Rare Diseases
Subjects: Closing the Gap, Indigenous Australians, Health, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, Mitochondrial Disease, NHMRC
Liberal Senator for Victoria James Paterson
26 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Jane Norman, ABC News, Capital Hill
Subjects: Budget surplus, Economy, Recession, Stimulus, Coronavirus, Travel ban, Health, Infrastructure, Newstart, Climate change, 2050 target, Former PM
Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg, Minister for Health Greg Hunt & Chief Medical Officer Brendan Murphy
25 FEB: Transcript of Press Conference, Canberra
Subjects: Coronavirus, China, Wuhan, Economic impact, G20 meeting, Global growth forecast, Budget surplus, Olympics
Prime Minister Scott Morrison
25 FEB: Transcript of Remarks at the Ovarian Cancer Australia Teal Ribbon Breakfast, Parliament House
Subjects: Ovarian cancer research funding, Patient costs subsidy, Women, Defence force, Ovarian Cancer Australia, PBS health system
Shadow Treasurer Jim Chalmers
25 FEB: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Canberra
Subjects: Impact of Coronavirus, Economy, PM, WA State Treasurer's retirement, Household debt, Bushfires, Federal Govt health policy
Minister for Health Greg Hunt and Chief Medical Officer
24 FEB: Transcript of Doorstop Interview in Canberra
Subjects: Coronavirus updates, COVID-19, National Incidence Centre, Quarantine, Travel restrictions, Diamond Princess cruise ship
Member for Dunkley Peta Murphy
24 FEB: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Canberra
Subjects: Federal Opposition's commitment of net zero emissions by 2050, Mornington Centrelink, Medicare offices closing, Vulnerable people, Federal Minister for Health
Chief Medical Officer
23 FEB: Transcript of Press Conference
Subjects: Coronavirus update, China, Wuhan, Darwin quarantine, Diamond Princess cruise ship, World Health Organisation
Minister for Health Greg Hunt, Minister for Education Dan Tehan, Victorian Minister for Education James Merlino and Australian Chief Medical Officer
22 FEB: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Melbourne
Subjects: Coronavirus, Quarantine facility in Darwin, Diamond Princess cruise ship, Year 11 and 12 students from China, Community concern
Prime Minister Scott Morrison
21 FEB: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Katherine
Subjects: Defence project investment, Defence industry, Indo-Pacific stability, Defence funding, Coronavirus, Tourism impacts, National health, Emissions reduction
Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme Stuart Robert
21 FEB: Transcript of Interview with Virginia Trioli, ABC Melbourne
Subjects: NDIS, Victoria, NSW, Reserve funding, State budgets, Disabilities, Family services, Disability Reform Council, Mental health, Hospitals
Shadow Treasurer Jim Chalmers
21 FEB: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Cairns
Subjects: Impacts of Coronavirus, Public health, Tourism, Travel ban, Chinese impact on tourism, Regional economies, Climate change, Emissions reduction, Energy policy
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Reports
Response to Education & Employment References Committee Report - The people behind 000 - Mental health of first responders
Australian Government
Achieving the best outcome for first responders (or anyone else) who suffers, or is at risk of suffering, a work-related mental health condition is a vital and complex issue. During the inquiry, concerns were raised about the demanding work first responders perform for the community and the consequent risk to their psychological health, which, in some cases, is contributed to by workplace culture. While complex in nature, the Australian Government is committed to seeing duty holders fulfil their obligations under work health and safety (WHS) laws to eliminate or minimise risks to psychological health.
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Life expectancy in Australia's Commonwealth Electoral Divisions, 2016-2018 - Research Paper Series 2019-20
Department of Parliamentary Services (DPS), Parliamentary Library
Life expectancy is an intuitive measure of the overall health of a population and is therefore useful when considering matters such as health education and policy, access to services, social disadvantage and a range of health risk factors. Life expectancy is a convenient measure for comparing sub-populations, but as it requires more data and additional modelling for smaller populations it does not appear to have been published previously for Australian Commonwealth Electoral Divisions. These divisional life expectancies complement those from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).
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ANMF Submission to the Department of Education, Skills and Employment in relation to the consultation on skilled migration occupation lists review
Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF)
The ANMF notes that a number of Registered Nurse occupations (14) are a standard inclusion on the MLTSSL list and has been the case for a number of years under previous temporary visa categories. While the MLTSSL list is directed to whether an occupation might be needed in two to ten years' time the ANMF are not aware of evidence to suggest there is, or will be a genuine and unexpected skill shortage of Registered Nurses in that time frame. The ANMF are aware that some employers report difficulties recruiting (and retaining) registered nurses in some sectors and locations such as aged care and regional and remote areas, but in general, this is not related to a lack of supply of registered nurses.
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Review of the two national Indigenous specific primary health care datasets
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW)
The Commonwealth Department of Health (the Department) commissioned the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) to undertake a comprehensive review of the Online Services Report (OSR) and the National Key Performance Indicators (nKPIs). These collections are two of the main sources of data from health organisations funded to deliver primary health care services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians. This report summarises the outcomes of that review.
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Patient experiences in Australia by small geographic areas in 2017-18
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW)
Australian adults report their experiences of more than 20 aspects of health and health care in the latest web update. Information from 2013-14 to 2017-18 is presented by Primary Health Network areas across Australia, on topics including self-reported health status, use of health services and cost barriers to accessing services. Half (50%) of adults reported having a long-term health condition. Around 9 in 10 (94%) Australian adults felt their GP always or often showed respect for what they had to say/ Nationally, 86% of adults rated their health as Excellent, Very good or Good.
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Spinal cord injury, Australia - 2016-17
Australian Institute of Health & Welfare (AIHW)
This 18th report in the Spinal cord injury, Australia series presents national statistics on spinal cord injury (SCI) using data from case registrations to the Australian Spinal Cord Injury Register (ASCIR) for 2016-17. A total of 227 newly incident cases of traumatic SCI due to external causes were reported for 2016-17 among people aged 15 or over. Of these cases, 220 resulted in a persisting traumatic SCI; 3 died; 3 had no long-term neurological injury; and 1 was still to be discharged as at April 2019.
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Guide to GP training in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health
Australian General Practice Training (AGPT), National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO)
This Guide to General Practice Training in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health was developed for regional training providers (RTPs), the Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs) sector and other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health training posts, such as state/territory government primary health care services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Its purpose is to provide these key stakeholders with broad, yet practical, consistent principles as a national framework for the regional delivery of culturally-safe general practice training in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health.
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Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services - Helping to Close the Gap
Australian General Practice Training (AGPT), National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation NACCHO
The purpose of this brochure is to provide Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs) with information on how to become accredited to train general practice (GP) registrars and the benefits registrars can bring to your service and community. By becoming accredited to deliver general practice training an ACCHS will be able to employ GP registrars for set terms over a three-year period. These registrars will provide quality primary health care services to the people in your community while also learning how to be better, more culturally and clinically competent general practitioners. On a large scale this leads to better and more holistic health care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
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Registrars - Journey of Healing - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Training Posts
Australian General Practice Training (AGPT), National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO)
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health is an important aspect of general practice training and experience in this area is key to becoming a clinically and culturally competent GP. This training contributes to the Council of Australian Government's (COAG's) strategy towards closing the gap in health inequalities between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other Australians. This contribution is made by increasing access to quality primary health care by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Undertaking a post in an ACCHS provides the opportunity to experience cultural immersion.
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Overview of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health status 2019
Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet
The main purpose of the Overview of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health status (Overview) is to provide a comprehensive summary of the most recent indicators of the health and current health status of Australia's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The Overview has been prepared by Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet staff as part of its contribution to supporting those who work in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector. The Overview is a key element of the HealthInfoNet's commitment to authentic and engaged knowledge development and exchange.
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Hansards
Federal
26 FEB 2020: SENATE HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Rural and Regional Health Services
26 FEB 2020: REPS HANSARD: Federation Chamber - Constituency Statements - Tasmania - Health Care
26 FEB 2020: REPS HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Health Care
25 FEB 2020: REPS HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Coronavirus
25 FEB 2020: REPS HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Thalidomide
25 FEB 2020: REPS HANSARD: Statements by Members - Coronavirus
24 FEB 2020: REPS HANSARD: Constituency Statements - Lake Cathie Medical Centre - O'Keeffe, Mr John - Taree High School
24 FEB 2020: REPS HANSARD: Statements by Members - Holt Electorate Mental Health
24 FEB 2020: REPS HANSARD: Statements by Members - Leichhardt Electorate Far North Queensland Cairns Medical and Skin Cancer Centre
24 FEB 2020: SENATE HANSARD: Adjournment - Rural and Regional Health Services
24 FEB 2020: SENATE HANSARD: Documents - Mental Health - Order for the Production of Documents
24 FEB 2020: SENATE HANSARD: Motions - Dental Health
13 FEB 2020: REPS COMMITTEE HANSARD: Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care & Sport - Allergies and anaphylaxis - Canberra
Australian Capital Territory
20 FEB 2020: ACT ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Adjournment - Mental Health, Depression
20 FEB 2020: ACT ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Canberra Health Services, SPIRE Project
20 FEB 2020: ACT ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Health, Hydrotherapy Facilities
20 FEB 2020: ACT ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Supplementary Answers to Questions Without Notice - Health, Hydrotherapy
19 FEB 2020: ACT ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Work Safety - Mental Health
19 FEB 2020: ACT ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Government - Health System
New South Wales
26 FEB 2020: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Question Time - Public Health System
26 FEB 2020: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Private Members' Statements - Yerin Aboriginal Health Services
26 FEB 2020: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Private Members' Statements - Murwillumbah District Hospital
26 FEB 2020: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Private Members' Statements - Bulli District Hospital
26 FEB 2020: NSW, ANDERSON: Work Health and Safety Amendment (Review) Bill 2019 - Schedule of the amendment agreed to in the Legislative Assembly
25 FEB 2020: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Bushfires and Health and Wellbeing
25 FEB 2020: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Committees - Portfolio Committee No. 2 - Health - Reference
25 FEB 2020: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice: Take Note - Bushfires and Mental Health Services
25 FEB 2020: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Bushfires and Mental Health Services
25 FEB 2020: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Deferred Answers - NSW Health Data
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Court Cases
None this edition.
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New Regulations
Australian Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation Authority Regulations 2020
Legislative Instrument - F2020L00169
The Australian Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation Authority Regulations 2009 (the AOTDTA Regulations), which are the Principal Regulations for the Authority, sunset on 1 April 2020. The purpose of the Australian Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation Authority Regulations 2020 (the Regulations) is to remake the AOTDTA Regulations. No changes to the substantive meaning or operation of the AOTDTA Regulations are made apart from minor updates in the drafting style to align with current drafting practices. The Regulations specify exclusions to the definition of tissue, prescribe an alternative name for the Authority and specify additional individuals authorised to give consent to the publication or dissemination of patient information.
Explanatory Statement
Health Insurance (Extended Medicare Safety Net) Amendment Determination 2020
Legislative Instrument - F2020L00166
The purpose of the Health Insurance (Extended Medicare Safety Net) Amendment Determination 2020 (the EMSN Amendment Determination) is to amend the Health Insurance (Extended Medicare Safety Net) Determination 2017 (the Principal Determination) from 1 May 2020 to apply an EMSN benefit cap of 15 per cent of the schedule fee to the new glaucoma surgery item (item 42504), and to remove the 22 NK items that will no longer be listed.
Explanatory Statement
Health Insurance Legislation Amendment (Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine) Regulations 2020 - Subsection 133(1) - Health Insurance Act 1973
Legislative Instrument - F2020L00165
The purpose of the Health Insurance Legislation Amendment (Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine) Regulations 2020 (the Regulations) is to amend the GMST and the DIST from 1 March 2020. The Regulations implement the Government's response to recommendations from the MBS Review Taskforce (the Taskforce) on intensive care and emergency items, as announced in the 2019-20 Budget under the Guaranteeing Medicare - Medicare Benefits Schedule Review - response to Taskforce recommendations measure. The Taskforce found the existing MBS-funded intensive care and emergency medicine arrangements were complex and the fee structure did not adequately reflect the additional skill, time and risks associated with treating complex patients. The Taskforce recommended to Government that the intensive care and emergency medicine items be restructured to reflect contemporary clinical practice.
Explanatory Statement
Victoria
25 FEB 2020: VIC, MIKAKOS: Tobacco (Victorian Health Promotion Foundation) Amendment Regulations 2020 - S.R. No. 14/2020
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Proclamations
None this edition.
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Gazette Notices
None this edition.
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Consolidated Legislation
None this edition.
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New Bills
Aged Care Legislation Amendment (Improved Home Care Payment Administration No. 1) Bill 2020
A Bill for an Act to amend the law in relation to home care payments, and for related purposes.
The purpose of the Bill is to change the payment of home care subsidy to approved providers from being paid in advance to being paid in arrears. Paying home care subsidy in arrears will introduce a more contemporary business practice into home care subsidy payment arrangements and bring these arrangements into alignment with other Government programs. The Bill will not affect the eligibility of consumers to home care subsidy or the amount of home care subsidy payable for eligible home care consumers. The Bill amends both the Aged Care Act 1997 (the Act) and the Aged Care (Transitional Provisions) Act 1997 (the TP Act).
The Bill gives effect to the first stage of reforms to improve payment administration arrangements for home care packages announced by the Government in the 2019-20 Budget. A Bill implementing the second stage of the reforms will be introduced at a later date to give effect to the remainder of the home care payment administration reforms announced by the Government in the 2019-20 Budget.
The reforms improve payment administration arrangements for home care packages and will improve financial integrity in home care.
Under the current payment system, the Government is wholly reliant on an approved provider for accurate reporting and the reconciliation of funds. This is because currently the subsidy associated with a home care package is paid to the approved provider in advance. The approved provider uses an online claiming system to report relevant information after the payment period including periods of leave a consumer has taken, or the consumer ceasing to receive home care, and the amount of Commonwealth unspent funds when a consumer ceases home care. These reforms will improve financial accountability and allow for better transparency over the actual use of funds for home care service delivery.
Reps: Intro 27/02/20, 2R 27/02/20, Passed TBA
Senate: Intro TBA, 2R TBA, Passed TBA
Assent TBA, Act No. TBA
Commencement: The whole of this Act: A single day to be fixed by Proclamation. However, if the provisions do not commence within the period of 6 months beginning on the day this Act receives the Royal Assent, they commence on the day after the end of that period.
Download: 2R Speech | Explanatory Memorandum
Health Insurance Amendment (General Practitioners and Quality Assurance) Bill 2020
A Bill for an Act to amend the Health Insurance Act 1973, and for other purposes.
The Bill simplifies Medicare administrative processes for recognition as a specialist general practitioner (GP) for Medicare purposes under the Health Insurance Act 1973 (HI Act) and will align Medicare eligibility for GPs with the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme (NRAS) registration requirements.
The Bill also removes references to repealed legislation in relation to the definition of a quality assurance activity by amending subsection 124W(1)(a) of Part VC of the HI Act.
Reps: Intro 27/02/20, 2R 27/02/20, Passed TBA
Senate: Intro TBA, 2R TBA, Passed TBA
Assent TBA, Act No. TBA
Commencement:
1. Sections 1 to 3 and anything in this Act not elsewhere covered by this table: The day this Act receives the Royal Assent.
2. Schedule 1: A single day to be fixed by Proclamation. However, if the provisions do not commence within the period of 12 months beginning on the day this Act receives the Royal Assent, they commence on the day after the end of that period.
3. Schedule 2: The day after this Act receives the Royal Assent.
Download: 2R Speech | Explanatory Memorandum
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New Acts
None this edition.
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