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Friday 22 May 2020

 

This Newsletter 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


Coronavirus (COVID-19)

21 May

Statement
Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Nick Coatsworth said that the Australian Government's communications response to the COVID-19 pandemic is entering a new phase, as governments are gradually easing restrictions around public gatherings, how businesses can operate and regional travel. They can do this because Australia has been very successful at flattening the curve. Thanks to the efforts of all Australians, we are in a position that's the envy of many countries. The current number of new cases in Australia each day is very low. As we start to ease restrictions, it's important that all Australians stay COVIDSafe. COVID-19 has not disappeared and we need to ensure all Australians know how to protect themselves and others.
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Doctor fined $37,800 for alleged advertising breaches including references to COVID-19
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has issued fifteen infringement notices totalling $37,800 to a doctor in Perth, including alleged unlawful advertising of therapeutic goods in relation to COVID-19. The advertisements published on the doctor's website in May 2020 referred to therapeutic goods not included in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). Unless a specific exemption, approval or authority applies, therapeutic goods must be entered on the ARTG before they can be lawfully supplied or advertised in Australia. A restricted representation refers to a serious disease, condition or disorder. The use of restricted representations in advertisements for therapeutic goods is unlawful without the permission of the TGA.
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Survey of family and friend carers reveals them doing it very tough during COVID-19 pandemic
'A survey of family and friend carers conducted by the Caring Fairly campaign has revealed that, while the coronavirus and its consequences have impacted negatively on many Australians, family and friend carers of people with disability, mental illness, chronic illness and the frail aged have faced a very high level of challenges to their finances and wellbeing,' said Mary Reid, Interim CEO of Carers Australia. The Government has made it clear that the $550 per fortnight Coronavirus Supplement, which has been made available to many income support recipients, will not be added to pensions such as the Carer Payment and the Disability Support Pension.
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NSW: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) statistics
As at 8pm Wednesday 20 May 2020, there have been 2 additional cases of COVID-19 diagnosed since 8pm 19 May, bringing the total number of cases to 3,082. One person reported as a case in previous days has since been excluded after further testing. There were 9,737 people tested in the reporting period, compared with 7,093 people in the previous 24 hours. Nearly 394,000 people have now been tested for COVID-19 in NSW, which has one of the highest per capita testing rates in the world, said NSW Health.
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NT: No active COVID-19 cases in the Northern Territory
There are no active cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) in the Northern Territory after the remaining patient was cleared. This person had contracted COVID-19 while on overseas deployment with the Australian Defence Force. All 30 of the cases of COVID-19 diagnosed in the Northern Territory were connected to interstate or overseas travel, said the NT Department of the Chief Minister.
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20 May

World Health Assembly resolution on COVID- 19
The Government welcomes the adoption of a landmark Resolution on the global COVID-19 response at the 73rd session of the World Health Assembly, which was EU-led and cosponsored by over 130 WHO member states, said Minister for Foreign Affairs Marise Payne. The resolution commits to an impartial, independent and comprehensive evaluation into COVID-19, at the earliest appropriate moment, to review the lessons learned from the international health response coordinated by the World Health Organization (WHO), said Minister for Health Greg Hunt. There is also a clear mandate to identify the source of the COVID-19 virus.
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Rural health journal shines a light on physical and mental health
National Rural Health Alliance (NRHA) CEO Dr Gabrielle O'Kane said that in addition to looking at timely issues like bushfires and COVID-19, this issue of the Journal had a special focus on the physical wellbeing of people living with a mental illness in rural and remote communities. 'Recent events have really brought the physical and mental health of people in rural Australia into focus,' said Dr O'Kane. 'In particular, bushfires and COVID-19 disproportionately affect people in rural communities, not least because of poorer access to health services and a higher likelihood of having multiple physical and mental health problems.'
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World Health Assembly resolution on COVID-19 review
Labor welcomes the passage and formal adoption of the World Health Assembly resolution to enact a review coordinated by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Member States into the COVID-19 pandemic. 'Labor has consistently supported an impartial inquiry into the virus to ensure we learn the lessons from COVID-19 and improve pandemic prevention, preparedness and response capacity across the globe,' said Shadow Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong and Shadow Minister for Health Chris Bowen.
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NSW: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) statistics
As at 8pm Tuesday 19 May 2020, there has been four additional cases of COVID-19 diagnosed since 8pm 18 May, bringing the total number of cases to 3,081. There were 7,093 people tested in the reporting period, compared with 5,304 people in the previous 24 hours. Nearly 385,000 people have now been tested for COVID-19 in NSW, which has one of the highest per capita testing rates in the world. NSW Health would like to thank those with symptoms for coming forward, getting tested and ensuring cases in the community are identified as quickly as possible.
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NT: Only one COVID-19 case remains in the Northern Territory
There is now only one active case of coronavirus (COVID-19) in the Northern Territory, with another patient cleared. The recovered case and the remaining case contracted COVID-19 while serving overseas with the Australian Defence Force. All 30 cases of COVID-19 diagnosed in the Northern Territory are related to international or interstate travel. There have been no cases of community transmission in the NT, said the Department of the Chief Minister.
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QLD: COVID-19 - Wed May 20: More regional stimulus / testing important
More investment in regional infrastructure has been announced to further boost Queensland's COVID-19 economic reset, as one new case and one more recovery are added to the health figures. There are now 12 active cases, 1040 recovered and six deaths for a total of 1058. Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said was a record testing day, with almost 5,000 samples tested. The Chief Health Officer added that there was capacity for 10,000 tests per day.
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VIC: COVID-19 prevention trial opens for high risk healthcare workers
The first gold standard Australian clinical trial to determine whether the drug hydroxychloroquine can prevent COVID-19 is now open. The study, called COVID SHIELD, will recruit frontline and allied health care professionals, aiming to reduce the incidence of COVID-19 in the Australian healthcare workforce COVID SHIELD is a major collaborative effort led by the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research in partnership with human data science company IQVIA and healthcare providers across the country, including in Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia and the Australian Capital Territory.
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WA: COVID-19 update - 20 May 2020
The WA Department of Health has again reported no new active cases of COVID-19 with the State's total remaining at 557. There are three active cases across the State - one in regional WA. To date, 545 people have recovered from the virus in WA and there are no confirmed COVID-19 patients in Perth hospitals. 662 people presented to WA COVID-19 clinics, and of these 608 were assessed and 601 were swabbed. To date there have been 69,644 COVID-19 tests performed in WA. Of those, 12,389 tests were carried out in regional WA.
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WA: COVID-19 restrictions in Western Australia
The implementation of border controls at both the international and state levels, along with public health, mass gathering and social distancing measures, has been highly effective in controlling the COVID-19 outbreak in Western Australia (WA). COVID-19 cases fell from 35 cases reported on 24 March 2020 to 14 cases by 09 April 2020. Since 29 April, there have only been 3 new cases, all directly related to travellers, said Dr Andrew Robertson, WA Chief Health Officer.
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19 May

Australians urged to stay vigilant as COVID-19 toll climbs to 100
The Government has renewed calls for Australians to stay vigilant as the toll of people who have died as a result of COVID-19 rises to 100. Minister Hunt and Minister for Aged Care and Senior Australians Richard Colbeck urged residents to maintain physical distancing and strict hygiene measures to ensure the nation continues to flatten the curve. It follows confirmation of the death of a resident at Sydney aged care facility Newmarch House - the centre's 19th since the COVID-19 outbreak at the facility, with 17 directly attributed to COVID-19 and Australia's 100th overall.
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International World Family Doctor Day
'On World Family Doctor Day, May 19, we are proud in Australia to recognise the critically important work undertaken by medical practitioners on the front line every day, as part of Australia's health care system which is experiencing unprecedented challenges with the national emergency resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic,' said Minister Hunt. 'Our nation's general practitioners are playing an essential role in protecting the health of our community during the pandemic, and especially those most at risk.' 'Medical professionals throughout the nation have swiftly changed their model of care to utilise telehealth for much of their work, combined with face to face consultations whenever necessary,' said Chief Medical Officer Brendan Murphy.
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Misinformation linking 5G and the coronavirus
The Government has warned Australians about misinformation linking coronavirus to 5G mobile technology, and urged them to have confidence in Australia's stringent safety standards and decades of global scientific research about electromagnetic energy. Minister for Communications, Cyber Safety and the Arts Paul Fletcher said the radio waves used by all generations of mobile and wireless technologies, including 5G, have been studied rigorously for decades, and there is no evidence that the use of these radio waves in mobile networks is harmful to health or related to the current health pandemic.
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COVID-19 respiratory clinics open in Gundagai and Tumut
Gundagai and Tumut residents now have access to GP-led respiratory clinics as part of the Government's $2.4 billion health package to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said the two respiratory clinics which opened were among more than 100 Commonwealth-funded clinics being opened around Australia to assess patients with mild to moderate COVID-19 like symptoms. 'The GP-led clinics will help to reduce pressure on hospital emergency departments and other general practices,' Minister McCormack said. 'Rural and regional residents deserve health care services which are just as good as those provided in our major cities and the national roll-out of these new clinics is part of addressing that.'
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Supporting the mental health of workers during COVID-19
Managing the mental health of workers is an ongoing challenge for the building and construction industry. The added pressures of COVID-19 restrictions have the potential to negatively impact the mental health of workers, particularly physical distancing and isolation measures. Changes to the way work is done during the pandemic can also be a source of angst for many. The Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner has previously partnered in a mental health awareness campaign with BeyondBlue, and published a case study on Work and Life balance with ProBuild Constructions Victoria. The proactive assessment, awareness, and mitigation of both physical and mental health risks on building sites is essential, especially during these challenging times.
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Legal supply of COVID-19 test kits
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) is working with suppliers to ensure that Australia has tests available to support efforts in managing the COVID-19 emergency. There are two pathways to legally supply these types of tests:
- undergoing an expedited TGA assessment of the COVID-19 test and obtaining approval for inclusion in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG)
- supplying COVID-19 tests under the emergency exemption to accredited pathology laboratories. This is current advice relating to the supply of COVID-19 tests. As the COVID-19 situation changes, this advice may be amended.
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Private and public hospitals in the ACT authorised to cooperate on COVID-19 response
Private healthcare facilities and health agencies in the Australian Capital Territory will be able to cooperate in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, following an interim authorisation granted to the ACT Health Directorate. Interim authorisation will allow public and private hospital operators in the ACT to work with each other during the current health crisis by, for example, discussing expected capacity and demand for services, jointly procuring and distributing medical equipment and supplies, and sharing staff. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has not conducted a public consultation process in respect of this request for interim authorisation in light of the urgent need for the Directorate.
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Blood pressure medicines during COVID-19? Take them as usual!
Keeping your blood pressure under control is especially important during the COVID-19 pandemic - so keep taking your blood pressure medicines! This is the latest advice about medicines on the NPS MedicineWise COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) web page which is regularly being updated with information for consumers as new evidence and advice emerges. 'Medicines that help lower blood pressure do not make COVID-19 more severe. The opposite is true,' said Dr Jill Thistlethwaite, GP and medical adviser at NPS MedicineWise.
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Improving access to cardiac rehab during COVID-19 restrictions
Medibank's cardiac rehabilitation program is experiencing an increase in patient referrals during COVID-19, to provide personalised remotely delivered one to one support, to help prevent a second serious cardiac event. The Medibank Heart Health at Home program is one of the first personalised, fully telehealth delivered cardiac rehabilitation services in Australia, making it more easily accessible to customers. Patients with a chronic health condition have a higher risk of suffering more severe symptoms if they contract COVID-19, so access to care in their home is crucial.
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EY, SAP and Qualtrics collaborate to bring resources to governments around the world to help in the fight against COVID-19
Ernst & Young (EY), SAP and Qualtrics announced a collaboration to provide resources to governments around the world as they battle the rapidly evolving COVID-19 pandemic. These Qualtrics and SAP solutions will be implemented by EY and include tools to help governments prescreen and route potential COVID-19 patients, support healthcare workers, and manage the flow of information and resources to their citizens. To help manage the impact of the pandemic, EY, SAP and Qualtrics have collaborated on providing agencies with a comprehensive set of services and solutions to meet the initial urgent and critical needs of governments, globally.
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COVID total and permanent disability claims initiative
The life insurance industry has put further steps in place to support Australians through the unprecedented public health and economic impacts of COVID-19. The Financial Services Council (FSC) announced an initiative on behalf of participating life insurance member companies to ensure that if people lose their job, are stood down or have reduced working hours due to COVID-19, this will not affect their total and permanent disability (TPD) cover. To align with the current JobKeeper Payment scheme, the initiative runs to 27 September 2020 and claims must be lodged before 1 January 2021.
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QLD: COVID-19 - Unite and recover as curve stays flat
Positive health results have paved the way for the Government's COVID-19 economic recovery strategy, as no new cases and another recovery keep the curve flat. There are now 12 active cases, 1039 recovered and six deaths for a total of 1057. Queensland Premier Palaszczuk said she was able to talk about economic recovery because the virus was being contained. 'The plan that we have announced today, our path forward in recovery, is the result of meeting with stakeholders and listening to their concerns,' Premier Palaszczuk said.
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18 May

QLD: COVID-19 - Eased restrictions go well / Funds for regions
Regional workers and families recovering financially from the COVID-19 pandemic will benefit from the Queensland Government's resources community fund, as health officials confirm two more cases and one more recovery. There are now 13 active cases, 1038 recovered and six deaths for a total of 1057. Premier Palaszczuk said she had good feedback from the lifting of restrictions.
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SA: World-class COVID-19 testing bolstered
South Australia's COVID-19 testing regime is being bolstered with focussed testing for specific cohorts of the population, as part of the SA Government's strong plan to protect all South Australians from the spread of the virus. The testing cohorts identified in the Active Testing Surveillance Framework include health care workers, residential aged care workers, transport workers, homeless persons, prison inmates, and seasonal workers. SA Premier Steven Marshall said boosting the testing regime is the next step the Government's strong plan to keep South Australia safe and strong.
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17 May

ACT: COVID-19 update
There have been no new cases of COVID-19 recorded in the ACT in the past 24 hours. The ACT's total is still 107. The number of negative tests in the ACT is now 13,951, with 204 test results received in the past 24 hours. Canberrans are being reminded that although restrictions have eased, their responsibilities have not. 'Whenever you leave home, you should think about how you're going to keep yourself, family, and friends safe,' said ACT Acting Chief Health Officer, Dr Vanessa Johnston. ACT Health is continuing to take appropriate public health action in line with national guidelines.
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NSW: $8.6 million to improve patients hospital experience
Patients at hospital emergency departments and COVID-19 clinics will benefit from an $8.6 million expansion of the NSW State Government's award-winning Patient Experience Program. NSW Minister for Health Brad Hazzard said an additional 86 staff will be recruited to 50 hospitals across NSW, with COVID-19 clinics a priority, as part of the Australian-first program. 'This valuable program has proven to be a huge help to patients and carers during what is often a very worrying time, ensuring they receive all the information and support they need from the minute they arrive in our care,' Minister Hazzard said.
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NSW: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) statistics
As at 8pm Saturday 16 May 2020, there has been one additional case of COVID-19 diagnosed since 8pm 15 May, bringing the total number of cases to 3,075. There were 10,179 people tested in the reporting period, compared with 9,892 people in the previous 24 hours. Nearly 366,000 people have now been tested for COVID-19 in NSW, which has one of the highest testing rates in the world. NSW Health would like to thank those with symptoms for coming forward, getting tested and ensuring cases in the community are identified as quickly as possible.
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QLD: Temporary move for some aged care residents despite negative tests
Central Queensland Hospital and Health Service will move some residents from one of its aged care facilities to a private hospital to allow remaining residents to better quarantine in place, said the Queensland Department of Health. The decision comes despite 193 tests from residents and staff from the North Rockhampton Nursing Centre all returning negative results. All 114 residents tested have returned negative results. The facility remains in lockdown following a nurse testing positive to COVID-19. Queensland Health mobilised a rapid response team, comprising the local public health unit and experts from Brisbane, to manage the case and help contain the virus.
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TAS: Restrictions to ease
'The health, safety and wellbeing of Tasmanians is our number one priority and as Tasmania begins on our road to recovery, it's imperative that we don't let down our guard, undo the good work done and invite a second wave of infections to occur. Tasmanians have worked hard to stay home and save lives, and I thank them for their efforts,' said Premier Peter Gutwein.
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16 May

NSW: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) statistics
As at 8pm Friday 15 May 2020, there have been three additional cases of COVID-19 diagnosed since 8pm 14 May, bringing the total number of cases to 3,074. There were 9,892 people tested in the reporting period, compared with 12,212 people in the previous 24 hours. Nearly 356,000 people have now been tested for COVID-19 in NSW, which has one of the highest testing rates in the world. NSW Health would like to thank those with symptoms for coming forward, getting tested and ensuring cases in the community are identified as quickly as possible.
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15 May

Update on coronavirus measures
The National Cabinet met to further discuss Australia's current COVID-19 response, easing restrictions in the coming months, helping Australians prepare to go back to work in a COVID-Safe environment and getting the economy moving again, said Prime Minister Scott Morrison. The Chief Medical Officer, Professor Brendan Murphy, provided an update on the measures underway, the latest data and medical advice in relation to COVID-19. There have been over 7,000 confirmed cases in Australia and sadly 98 people have died. There are now less than 1,000 active cases in Australia, and daily infection rates have remained low. Testing remains high, with more than 950,000 tests undertaken in Australia.
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COVID-19: $48.1 million for national Mental Health and Wellbeing Pandemic Response Plan
The Government is continuing to take action to help Australians whose mental health and wellbeing is being affected by the COVID-19 pandemic by providing an additional $48.1 million to support the Mental Health and Wellbeing Pandemic Response Plan presented to the National Cabinet, said Minister Hunt. This investment builds on approximately $500 million for mental health and suicide prevention announced by the Government since 30th January, including $64 million for suicide prevention, $74 million for preventative mental health services, and a significant proportion of the $669 million telehealth package to support MBS subsidised treatments provided by GPs, psychologists, psychiatrists and other mental health professionals.
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Government backs innovative COVID-19 research
The Government is supporting world-leading research into the latest COVID-19 treatments through a dedicated round of the Medical Research Future Fund's Biomedical Translation Bridge, said Minister Hunt. The Government, in partnership with the not-for-profit organisation MTPConnect, has announced a new round of its $22.3 million Biomedical Translation Bridge (BTB) Program to support COVID-19 related research projects. The BTB Program, now launching its third round, is a four-year Government initiative to help researchers transform their ideas into new treatments to help patients. This latest round will match funding of up to $1 million per project to help find new COVID- 19-related medical devices, diagnostics, vaccines or therapeutic approaches.
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QLD: COVID-19 - Health caution vital as restrictions ease
Ms Palaszczuk has strongly urged Queenslanders to remain vigilant with social distancing and health care when restrictions ease, as two more COVID-19 cases come to light - one new and one old. There are now 17 active cases, 1031 recovered and six deaths for a total of 1054. Although a careful lifting of some restrictions was a credit to Queenslanders, the new case illustrated why extreme care was still needed, the Premier said. 'We have to take gradual and measured steps, we can't rush things, we have to do this process in line with the health advice.'
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QLD: Queensland novel coronavirus (COVID-19) update
Queensland has two new confirmed cases of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) to report, said the Queensland Department of Health. One of the cases is a healthcare worker from Rockhampton. A rapid response team has been mobilised and contact tracing is well underway. Anyone in Rockhampton who has symptoms is encouraged to forward for testing. The second case is a Queensland resident who was diagnosed and treated in another state. They have now recovered. This case has been included in Queensland's total in accordance with national guidelines that require confirmed cases to be reported and recorded based on the person's state of residence, not where they were tested for COVID-19 or where they were infected.
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WA: COVID-19 update
The WA Department of Health has reported no new active cases of COVID-19. However, the State's total now stands at 556 after two historical cases were identified through serology testing. These are historical cases that are no longer infectious and do not carry any ongoing risk to the public. One case is related to a cruise ship and one is a close contact of a confirmed case. There are six active cases across the State with one in regional WA.
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Aged Care

18 May

Aged care commends the value of volunteers across Australia during Volunteer Week and every week
Leading Age Services Australia (LASA), the voice of aged care, said a national 'thank you' to the 70,000-plus volunteers who contribute so much to the wellbeing of over 1.3 million older Australians receiving home and residential care services. Hundreds of LASA members will be celebrating National Volunteer Week, with the theme of Changing Communities. Changing Lives. 'Our selfless volunteers really do change our communities and change the lives of older Australians, all year round,' said LASA CEO Sean Rooney
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QLD: Labor must ensure safety of residents at all state run aged care centres
The LNP has called on the Queensland State Government to ensure procedures are in place to guarantee the safety of residents and staff at all 16 state government run aged care homes across Queensland in the wake of the North Rockhampton breach. Queensland Shadow Minister for Health Ros Bates also said the investigation into what went wrong at the state-government centre in North Rockhampton must be made public. 'As a nurse myself, either the proper procedures weren't in place or they weren't followed in Rockhampton,' Shadow Minister Bates said. 'It's a copout to blame the nurse who tested positive to coronavirus, this is a state government run home and the Health Minister needs to take full responsibility.'
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17 May

QLD: Temporary move for some aged care residents despite negative tests
Central Queensland Hospital and Health Service will move some residents from one of its aged care facilities to a private hospital to allow remaining residents to better quarantine in place, said the Queensland Department of Health. The decision comes despite 193 tests from residents and staff from the North Rockhampton Nursing Centre all returning negative results. All 114 residents tested have returned negative results. The facility remains in lockdown following a nurse testing positive to COVID-19. Queensland Health mobilised a rapid response team, comprising the local public health unit and experts from Brisbane, to manage the case and help contain the virus.
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Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety

None this edition.

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Allied Health

None this edition.

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Children's Health

21 May

VIC: Maternal and Child Health Service continues to operate
The Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) is reassuring young families that all Victorian councils' Maternal and Child Health Services continue to operate during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Maternal and Child Health Services have robust processes and measures in place to help combat the spread of coronavirus and keep nurses, parents, and babies safe. Cr Coral Ross, President of the MAV, said the Maternal and Child Health Service is a vital community service provided by local councils. 'Victorian councils have provided Maternal and Child Health Services to the community for over 100 years and continue to assist families during these uncertain times,' Ms Ross said.
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Clinical Governance

19 May

Supporting the mental health of workers during COVID-19
Managing the mental health of workers is an ongoing challenge for the building and construction industry. The added pressures of COVID-19 restrictions have the potential to negatively impact the mental health of workers, particularly physical distancing and isolation measures. Changes to the way work is done during the pandemic can also be a source of angst for many. The Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner has previously partnered in a mental health awareness campaign with BeyondBlue, and published a case study on Work and Life balance with ProBuild Constructions Victoria. The proactive assessment, awareness, and mitigation of both physical and mental health risks on building sites is essential, especially during these challenging times.
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Construction and Health Infrastructure

20 May

ACT: Health infrastructure works fast-tracked
The ACT Government is fast-tracking improvements and maintenance to health service facilities across Canberra as part of the Government's economic survival package to keep Canberra working through the COVID-19 pandemic. These fast-tracked projects focus on work that can start immediately, be completed by 30 June 2020, support local businesses and keep Canberrans employed. ACT Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said works recently commenced at the Tresillian Queen Elizabeth II (QEII) Family Centre would employ local Canberra businesses and improve the facility for patients, families and staff.
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WA: New isolation room and fast track area at Charlies' Emergency Department
A fit-for-purpose and much-needed expanded work space within the Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital (SCGH) emergency department (ED) has been completed in time for the 2020 flu season, said WA Minister for Health Roger Cook. The $900,000 expansion has seen the creation of a dedicated infectious disease isolation room and additional treatment areas within the ED. The new negative pressure isolation room enables suspected infectious patients, including influenza and COVID-19 presentations, to be assessed and treated in a controlled clinical environment, to further protect other patients and staff within the ED.
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Dental

16 May

Six weeks until dental is ditched for the most vulnerable Australians
The Government are set to abandon the 580,000 Australians who have relied on the National Partnership Agreement on Public Dental Services for the past three years, said Shadow Minister for Health Chris Bowen. Greg Hunt should front up to Australians now and explain why he is taking their dental services away. Already 2 million Australians skip dental care due to cost each year, causing over 70,000 potentially preventable hospitalisations. With the Agreement on dental expiring on 30 June, this is only set to get worse.
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Disabilities

20 May

Concerning trends and challenges ahead for the NDIS workforce, major new report finds
A major report by University of New South Wales (UNSW) researchers Natasha Cortis and Georgia van Toorn found only one in five workers in the disability sector say the NDIS has been a positive experience for them as workers. 'When the NDIS started to roll out, many commentators thought its problems were transitional or 'teething issues',' said Dr Cortis from UNSW's Social Policy Research Centre. 'This report shows the scheme is continuing to operate in ways that are at odds with its personcentred ethos.' The report titled Working in new disability markets: A survey of Australia's disability workforce is based on a nationwide survey of more than 2,300 responses from across the disability sector in March.
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19 May

COVID total and permanent disability claims initiative
The life insurance industry has put further steps in place to support Australians through the unprecedented public health and economic impacts of COVID-19. The Financial Services Council (FSC) announced an initiative on behalf of participating life insurance member companies to ensure that if people lose their job, are stood down or have reduced working hours due to COVID-19, this will not affect their total and permanent disability (TPD) cover. To align with the current JobKeeper Payment scheme, the initiative runs to 27 September 2020 and claims must be lodged before 1 January 2021.
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18 May

2020 review of the Disability Standards for Education 2005
Throughout 2020, the Department of Education, Skills and Employment will be reviewing the Disability Standards for Education 2005. The department is consulting with key peak disability bodies to help design and to inform the Review, and more information about how you can participate will be made available in the coming weeks and months.
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Investigation into death of NDIS participant
National Disability Services (NDS) is saddened and appalled by reports of the treatment suffered by Ann-Marie Smith, leading to her death last month. The circumstances surrounding Ms Smith's death, presently the subject of criminal investigation, underscore the importance of a strong and robust national regulatory framework underpinned by legislation to protect all NDIS participants. NDS, as Australia's peak body for non-government disability service providers, has been an active supporter of the development of the NDIS Quality and Safeguard Framework, and is pleased the NDIS Quality and Safeguarding Commission will become a truly national regulator once Western Australia has fully transitioned into the NDIS.
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Largest survey of disability workers finds poor workforce conditions
Findings from a survey of more than 2300 disability workers shows that the current workforce conditions under the NDIS serve to undermine the capacity of the workforce to provide quality support to people with disability. Commissioned by the Health Services Union (HSU), United Workers Union (UWU) and Australian Services Union (ASU), the research report by the UNSW Social Policy Research Centre highlights the lived experience of the workforce operating under the NDIS. Each of the three unions have provided a submission to the Joint Standing Committee on the National Disability Insurance Scheme outlining ways to improve working conditions for the disability workforce.
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SA: New disability taskforce to be established
The SA State Government will establish a new taskforce to examine the current gaps in oversight and safeguarding for people living with profound disability in South Australia. The taskforce, to be chaired by Disability Advocate Dr David Caudrey, will be formed quickly and its members will include people with lived experience. The taskforce will make recommendations to the State Government and the NDIS. SA Minister for Human Services Michelle Lensink said the taskforce will be appointed immediately.
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Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability

20 May

Statement regarding the death of Ann Marie Smith
The Chair of the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability, Ronald Sackville AO QC, said Commissioners had been appalled by the circumstances surrounding the death of Ms Ann Marie Smith in Adelaide. Mr Sackville said this deeply distressing case brings to the fore important policy questions that are already under consideration by the Royal Commission. 'The circumstances of Ms Smith's death are the subject of multiple investigations, including a major crime investigation by the South Australian Police,' said Mr Sackville.
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E-Health

20 May

Opportunities for change and patient benefit
It is certainly true that risks and imperatives of the pandemic have had the effect of accelerating decisions, cutting through red tape, and forcing governments and authorities to work together in a way rarely seen in normal times. In primary health, COVID has been a catalyst for change in quick time, much of it beneficial to consumers. Recently, the Pharmacy Guild of Australia publicly expressed caution about the unintended consequences that could flow from the accelerated introduction of electronic prescriptions, particularly at this time when community pharmacies are under so much pressure, and the prescribing of medicines through telehealth, with scripts faxed or emailed, is already requiring rapid adjustment of pharmacy systems.
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18 May

Patients embrace telehealth - COVID-19 reforms must be made permanent
Australian patients are overwhelmingly embracing telehealth as an important part of their health care management, making a very strong case for the Government to make the COVID- 19 telehealth reforms a permanent feature of the health system. Australian Medical Association (AMA) President, Dr Tony Bartone, said that the AMA has been a strong telehealth advocate for many years and is delighted that patients are now reaping the benefits. Dr Bartone said that around 10 million Medicare-funded telehealth services have been provided, either over the phone or via video, a significant majority of which have been provided by GPs and other specialists since the Medicare telehealth items were introduced in March.
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Education and Training

21 May

TAS: Health training hub for Clarence TasTAFE
Tasmanian Minister for Education and Training Jeremy Rockliff
said that a $1.4 million redevelopment of the nursing, aged care and disability training areas at TasTAFE's Clarence campus will better enable it to train Tasmania's workforce and enable key industries to prosper. The new facilities will be modelled on real hospital wards and aged care facilities, and aligned with the latest industry standards transforming an entire block of the campus into a health training hub. This means TasTAFE students will be learning in facilities which are virtually identical to those they will come across on future work placements and ultimately their careers.
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20 May

World No Tobacco Day
Tobacco smoking remains the leading preventable cause of death and disease in Australia, said the Pharmacy Guild of Australia. This year's World No Tobacco Day on 31 May aims to debunk some of the myths the tobacco industry uses to promote its product. Smoking leads to a wide range of diseases including many types of cancer, heart disease and stroke, chest and lung illnesses, and stomach ulcers. It claims the lives of 15,500 Australians every year. Community pharmacies play a pivotal role in helping people quit smoking through special programs and nicotine replacement therapy.
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Funding

None this edition.

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Health Professionals

20 May

Opportunities for change and patient benefit
The internet can't seem to agree on who first said, 'never waste a good crisis', but it is clearly an expression that has been taken to heart at many levels during this confronting and unwelcome COVID-19 pandemic. It is certainly true that risks and imperatives of the pandemic have had the effect of accelerating decisions, cutting through red tape, and forcing governments and authorities to work together in a way rarely seen in normal times, said the Pharmacy Guild of Australia. In primary health, COVID has been a catalyst for change in quick time, much of it beneficial to consumers.
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VIC: COVID-19 prevention trial opens for high risk healthcare workers
The first gold standard Australian clinical trial to determine whether the drug hydroxychloroquine can prevent COVID-19 is now open. The study, called COVID SHIELD, will recruit frontline and allied health care professionals, aiming to reduce the incidence of COVID-19 in the Australian healthcare workforce COVID SHIELD is a major collaborative effort led by the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research in partnership with human data science company IQVIA and healthcare providers across the country, including in Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia and the Australian Capital Territory.
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19 May

International World Family Doctor Day
'On World Family Doctor Day, May 19, we are proud in Australia to recognise the critically important work undertaken by medical practitioners on the front line every day, as part of Australia's health care system which is experiencing unprecedented challenges with the national emergency resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic,' said Minister for Health Greg Hunt. 'Our nation's general practitioners are playing an essential role in protecting the health of our community during the pandemic, and especially those most at risk.' 'Medical professionals throughout the nation have swiftly changed their model of care to utilise telehealth for much of their work, combined with face to face consultations whenever necessary,' said Chief Medical Officer Brendan Murphy.
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RACGP calls on Australians to thank their GP on World Family Doctor Day
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is calling on Australians to give thanks to their family GPs on the frontline on World Family Doctor Day on Tuesday 19th May. RACGP President Dr Harry Nespolon said the COVID-19 pandemic had put a spotlight on the essential role that GPs play in communities. 'General practice is fundamental to Australia's world class health system but its role is not always well understood by the average person. The pandemic has highlighted the work of GPs on the frontline.'
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18 May

AMSA affirms the SOGICE Survivor Statement
Australian medical students have backed the SOGICE Survivor Statement, which calls on Australian governments to intervene to stop the LGBTQA+ conversion practice movement from harming people. The Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Change Efforts (SOGICE) Survivor Statement was written by survivors of the LGBTQA+ Conversion movement and their allies, and has been endorsed by advocates, organisations, and community groups that support, or are led by, LGBTIQ+ people of faith. The Australian Medical Students' Association (AMSA) announced its support to coincide with the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT).
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Hospitals

19 May

Private and public hospitals in the ACT authorised to cooperate on COVID-19 response
Private healthcare facilities and health agencies in the Australian Capital Territory will be able to cooperate in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, following an interim authorisation granted to the ACT Health Directorate. Interim authorisation will allow public and private hospital operators in the ACT to work with each other during the current health crisis by, for example, discussing expected capacity and demand for services, jointly procuring and distributing medical equipment and supplies, and sharing staff. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has not conducted a public consultation process in respect of this request for interim authorisation in light of the urgent need for the Directorate.
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Improving access to cardiac rehab during COVID-19 restrictions
Medibank's cardiac rehabilitation program is experiencing an increase in patient referrals during COVID-19, to provide personalised remotely delivered one to one support, to help prevent a second serious cardiac event. The Medibank Heart Health at Home program is one of the first personalised, fully telehealth delivered cardiac rehabilitation services in Australia, making it more easily accessible to customers. Patients with a chronic health condition have a higher risk of suffering more severe symptoms if they contract COVID-19, so access to care in their home is crucial.
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QLD: Central West Hospital and Health Board unchanged
The Central West Hospital and Health Board will continue unchanged. Queensland Deputy Premier and Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Steven Miles said the Central West Hospital and Health Board chaired by Ms Jane Williams had no members whose terms expired this year. Minister Miles said the Board would continue to provide strong leadership in the delivery of health services across the Central West region. 'This is a diverse group of people with a range of backgrounds, experience and skills, working together to ensure the health of the community is protected and enhanced,'' Minister Miles said.
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QLD: Central Queensland Hospital and Health Board to welcome a new face
The Central Queensland Hospital and Health Board will benefit from the experience and skills of new member Professor Fiona Coulson, with Chair Mr Paul Bell AM being reappointed and seven existing members retaining their positions. Mr Miles welcomed the news and said the combination of new skills and perspectives combined with the stability of the reappointments would maintain the strength of the Central Queensland Hospital and Health Service. Queensland Member for Keppel Brittany Lauga welcomed Professor Coulson to the Board and thanked the existing team for the dedication to the people of Central Queensland.
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QLD: Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Board to benefit from new member
The Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Board will benefit from the experience and skills of new member Ms Meredith Staib. In addition, Chair Mr David Gow and Dr David Wood and have been reappointed and seven other members will retain their positions. Queensland Deputy Premier Miles welcomed the news and said the combination of new skills and perspectives combined with the stability of the reappointments would maintain the strength of the Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service.
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QLD: New member and continuity of leadership for Darling Downs Hospital and Health Board
Associate Professor, University of Queensland, Maree Toombs has joined the Darling Downs Hospital and Health Board and former Queensland Health Minister Mike Horan AM continues as Chair. Mr Horan joins two other members to be reappointed to the ten-person Board, with the Board having increased in size by one member. Mr Miles welcomed Professor Toombs, saying her experience will make a valuable contribution to health services in the region. 'Professor Toombs is an excellent addition to the board, bringing a wealth of expertise,' Deputy Premier Miles said.
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QLD: Mackay Hospital and Health Board to welcome a new face
The Mackay Hospital and Health Board will benefit from the experience and skills of new member, Mrs Helen Caruso, while Chair Timothy Mulherin and all other remaining members will retain their positions. Mr Miles welcomed the news and said the combination of new skills and perspectives combined with the stability of the reappointments would maintain the strength of the Mackay Hospital and Health Service. Queensland Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said it's a testament to the Board's past success and ability to work together that it's able to provide continuity and performance and remain largely unchanged this year.
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QLD: Gold Coast Hospital and Health Board gets Indigenous health boost
The Gold Coast Hospital and Health Board will benefit from the experience and skills of new member, Professor Cindy Shannon, while Chair Ian Langdon and all other remaining members will retain their positions. Mr Miles welcomed the news and said the combination of new skills and perspectives combined with the stability of the reappointments would maintain the strength of the Gold Coast Hospital and Health Service. Queensland Member for Gaven Meaghan Scanlon said it's a testament to the Board's past success and ability to work together that it's able to provide continuity and performance and remain largely unchanged this year.
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QLD: New Chair for Metro North Hospital and Health Board
A former Director-General of the Departments of Community Safety, Emergency Services and Justice and Attorney-General has been appointed Chair of the Metro North Hospital and Health Board. Mr Miles said Mr Jim McGowan, who has been Chair of the South West Hospital and Health Board since May 2017, would take over from retiring Metro North Chair Emeritus Professor Robert Stable. Queensland Assistant Minister for Health and Member for Pine Rivers Nikki Boyd said congratulated four members of the Metro North Hospital and Health Board who had also been reappointed, while six others were not up for reappointment and retained their positions.
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QLD: Metro South Hospital and Health Board to welcome a new face
The Metro South Hospital and Health Board will benefit from the experience and skills of new member Mr Michael Goss, with Adjunct Professor Janine Walker AM continuing as Chair. In addition, Ms Helen Darch and Adjunct Professor Iyla Davies OAM are being reappointed and six other members will retain their positions. Mr Miles welcomed the news and said the combination of new skills and perspectives combined with the stability of the reappointments would maintain the strength of the Metro South Hospital and Health Service. 'Mr Goss brings outstanding experience as a lawyer in the banking and finance fields, with skills in risk assessment and mitigation,' Deputy Premier Miles said.
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QLD: New appointment to North West Hospital and Health Board
A former Acting Chief Executive of the North West Hospital and Health Service has been appointed as a member of its Hospital and Health Board. Mr Miles said former Chief Executive Mr Terry Mehan would join the North West Hospital and Health Board. Minister Miles said Mr Mehan is an internationally recognised health care leader with more than 40 years' experience in health system management, spanning three Australian states and overseas including Papua New Guinea and Tonga. He is the Principal of health and management consultancy Terry Mehan and Associates.
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QLD: South West Hospital and Health Board in good hands
The South West Hospital and Health Board will benefit from continuity of governance with the appointment of existing Deputy Chair Professor Karen Tully as the new Chair. She will replace former Board Chair Jim McGowan AM, who has been appointed as the new Chair of the Metro North Hospital and Health Board. Mr Miles said the South West Hospital and Health Board would continue to benefit from Professor Tully's broad Board experience, local knowledge and wide-ranging skills. 'Professor Tully has been a Board member since 2017 and has experience in the fields of education and governance,'' Deputy Premier Miles said.
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QLD: Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Board welcomes three new members
The Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Board will benefit from the experience and skills of three new members, while seven existing members will continue in their positions. Mr Miles welcomed the news and said the combination of new skills and perspectives, combined with the stability of the reappointments and continuing members, would maintain the strength of the Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service. 'The appointments of Associate Professor Edward Weaver OAM, Ms Sabrina Walsh and Mr Terrance Bell are excellent additions to the Board, bringing significant leadership, knowledge and expertise to our health services in the Sunshine Coast area,' Deputy Premier Miles said.
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QLD: One new appointment to Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Board
The Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Board remains largely unchanged following this year's round of Hospital and Health Board appointments. Mr Miles said Ms Karen Dini-Paul had been appointed to replace a departing member, while the remaining Board is unchanged. 'The Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Board, under Board Chair Ella Kris, will continue to provide strong leadership and direction across the health service,'' Deputy Premier Miles said. Deputy Premier Miles said existing members Dr Scott Davis, Mrs Tracy Del Jia, Ms Karen Price and Associate Professor Ruth Stewart whose terms expired this month all had been reappointed.
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QLD: Townsville Hospital and Health Board to welcome a new face
The Townsville Hospital and Health Board will benefit from the experience and skills of new member Ms Georgina Whelan. In addition, Chair Mr Tony Mooney AM and three other members are being reappointed and four other members are retaining their positions. Mr Miles welcomed the news and said the combination of new skills and perspectives combined with the stability of the reappointments would maintain the strength of the Townsville Hospital and Health Service. 'Ms Whelan brings valuable experience as an oncology nurse as well as extensive skills as a hospital administrator to her role on the Board,' Deputy Premier Miles said.
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QLD: West Moreton Hospital and Health Board unchanged
The West Moreton Hospital and Health Board will continue unchanged. Mr Miles said the West Moreton Hospital and Health Board chaired by Mr Michael Willis had no members whose terms expired this year. 'The Board would continue to provide strong leadership in the delivery of health services across the West Moreton region,'' Deputy Premier Miles said. Queensland Member for Ipswich Jennifer Howard said the team has served the West Moreton Hospital and Health Service and community extremely well and will continue to do so. 'I look forward to continuing to work with the Board to ensure Queensland's health system continues to develop and improve,' Ms Howard said.
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QLD: Wide Bay Hospital and Health Board to receive new members
Wide Bay Hospital and Health Board will benefit from the experience and skills of new members Dr Sandra Rattenbury and Mr Leon Nehow and the reappointment of Ms Karen Prentis. In addition, Chair Ms Peta Jamieson and all other remaining members will retain their positions. Mr Miles welcomed the news and said the combination of new skills and perspectives combined with the stability of the existing Board members would maintain the strength of the Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service. 'Both Leon and Sandra bring incredible experience with them,' Deputy Premier Miles said.
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QLD: Hospital Visitors Direction (No. 3)
To protect the most vulnerable people, the Queensland Department of Health is restricting visitors to hospitals . Each patient may have one visit per day for up to two hours, no more than two people per visit. You may not visit a hospital if you:
- have been asked to self-quarantine due to travel overseas, being in a COVID-19 hotspot or close contact with a person who has novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the previous 14 days.
- are unwell, particularly with a fever (38 degrees or more), cough, sore throat or shortness of breath.
- are under the age of 16, unless visiting to provide a patient with end-of-life support.
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18 May

SA: Lyell McEwin construction begins
Early works have begun on the expansion of the Lyell McEwin's Emergency Department (ED) and the development of a new Mental Health Short Stay Unit at the flagship northern hospital. The $58 million project will almost double the hospital's current ED capacity and is part of the Marshall Government's landmark $1 billion hospital infrastructure investment. 'The Lyell McEwin ED has been under intense pressure for many years and this investment will ensure it continues to provide first class health service for the people of northern Adelaide,' said SA Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade.
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17 May

NSW: $8.6 million to improve patients hospital experience
Patients at hospital emergency departments and COVID-19 clinics will benefit from an $8.6 million expansion of the NSW State Government's award-winning Patient Experience Program. NSW Minister for Health Brad Hazzard said an additional 86 staff will be recruited to 50 hospitals across NSW, with COVID-19 clinics a priority, as part of the Australian-first program. 'This valuable program has proven to be a huge help to patients and carers during what is often a very worrying time, ensuring they receive all the information and support they need from the minute they arrive in our care,' Minister Hazzard said.
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15 May

NSW: New vision for Royal North Shore Hospital
The NSW State Government announced plans to transform a portion of Royal North Shore Hospital, known as the Herbert Street Precinct, into a thriving community with additional health-related services, public open space, key worker housing and a new educational facility. NSW Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey, said the NSW State Government's vision for the Herbert Street Precinct will improve social, health and economic outcomes. NSW Member for North Shore Felicity Wilson said the proposed redevelopment supports the growth of Royal North Shore Hospital as one of the State's most important health, research and training facilities.
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Insurance

19 May

Prostheses list: Hibernation of the medical technology association of Australia (MTAA) strategic agreement
The Department of Health's Private Health Insurance Circular said that acknowledging the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on the healthcare sector, including the medical technology industry, the Minister for Health Greg Hunt has agreed to a period of hibernation for all Prostheses List reform work under the Strategic Agreement with the Medical Technology Association of Australia for up to 12 months. In addition, the pause will be extended to any activities related to products from the General Miscellaneous Category of Part A of the Prostheses List. This will provide predictability during these difficult times for the medical technology sector. It will allow industry and government to redirect efforts to issues relating to the impacts of COVID-19.
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19 MAY 2020: DEPT OF HEALTH: Private Health Insurance Circular PHI 35/20 - Private Health Insurance (Data Provision) Amendment Rules 2020 and Private Health Insurance (Health Insurance Business) Amendment Rules 2020

19 MAY 2020: DEPT OF HEALTH: Private Health Insurance Circular PHI 34/20 - Release of final 2020-21 data specifications for the HCP, HCP1, HCP2, GT-Dental, and PHDB data collections

APRA releases quarterly private health insurance statistics for March 2020
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has released its quarterly private health insurance statistical publications for the March 2020 quarter. The publications provide industry aggregate summaries of key financial and membership statistics for the private health insurance industry. The sharp COVID-19 led decline in equity markets drove significant investment losses in the March quarter 2020, resulting in negative profits this quarter and a consequent fall in industry profitability in the year ending March 2020.
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CHOICE response to APRA Quarterly Health Insurance Statistics
Quotes attributable to CHOICE Health Campaigner Dean Price: 'The APRA statistics are further proof that Australians are giving up their health insurance in droves. This is yet another quarter in which fewer people have seen value in taking up private health insurance. Australians are voting with their feet and telling health insurers what they're offering is poor value. When you're sick you just want to be cared for, but private health is still riddled with confusing policies, manipulative marketing, poor value and the nasty surprise of exorbitant out of pocket costs. Before COVID-19, Australians were continuing the trend of the past few years and were abandoning private health insurance.'
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Medicare

None this edition.

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Men's Health

20 May

Men's Health Week
Men's Health Week, being held from 15-21 June this year, aims to provoke thought and discussion about what needs to be done to improve male health, said the Pharmacy Guild of Australia. Suicide prevention will be one focus of the week. Organised by Western Sydney University's Men's Health Information and Resource Centre, Men's Health Week seeks to inform the Australian community about the state of male health in all its forms. It works on the understanding that the best people to improve men's health in Australia are those who live, work and play alongside men and boys in communities around the country.
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Mental Health

21 May

Assisted suicide activists told to wait, but what happens after the election?
The Australian Christian Lobby (ACL) commended the Queensland government for postponing their planned euthanasia legislation until after the October election, and for committing more funding for palliative care. The Queensland Government referred the issue to the Law Reform Commission for a report by March 2021. 'The ACL is very concerned that the Australian Labor Party remains committed to introducing assisted suicide, should they be re-elected,' ACL Queensland director Wendy Francis said. 'Today's government announcement is a credit to the ACL supporters and many others who voiced their concern to the Premier about Labor's policy on this major October election issue.'
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20 May

Rural health journal shines a light on physical and mental health
National Rural Health Alliance (NRHA) CEO Dr Gabrielle O'Kane said that in addition to looking at timely issues like bushfires and COVID-19, this issue of the Journal had a special focus on the physical wellbeing of people living with a mental illness in rural and remote communities. 'Recent events have really brought the physical and mental health of people in rural Australia into focus,' said Dr O'Kane. 'In particular, bushfires and COVID-19 disproportionately affect people in rural communities, not least because of poorer access to health services and a higher likelihood of having multiple physical and mental health problems.'
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Mental health wellbeing
Community pharmacists and staff are currently facing an unprecedented time of high demand and rapid change due to COVID-19, said the Pharmacy Guild of Australia. Community pharmacies and staff are experiencing increased workloads as a result of the shift to telehealth, and the increased administrative work from dispensing digital and faxed prescriptions, increasing presentations to pharmacies, managing medicine shortages, as well as increasing pressure from a stressed and anxious public which, unfortunately, has resulted in some pharmacy staff being abused over issues out of their control. Risks and concerns around the health of community pharmacy staff, and ensuring their safety and security is of paramount importance.
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Men's Health Week
Men's Health Week, being held from 15-21 June this year, aims to provoke thought and discussion about what needs to be done to improve male health, said the Pharmacy Guild of Australia. Suicide prevention will be one focus of the week. Organised by Western Sydney University's Men's Health Information and Resource Centre, Men's Health Week seeks to inform the Australian community about the state of male health in all its forms. It works on the understanding that the best people to improve men's health in Australia are those who live, work and play alongside men and boys in communities around the country.
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VIC: Expanding suicide prevention through HEY Grants
The Victorian State Government has extended funding for vital projects aimed at improving the mental health and wellbeing of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer young people. Victorian Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley announced eight organisations will share in more than $500,000 to keep their programs going, as part of the latest round of Healthy Equal Youth grants. The HEY Project and HEY grants aim to raise awareness, promote diversity, eliminate stigma and discrimination, and improve the overall mental health of young LGBTIQ people. The grants program is coordinated by Youth Affairs Council Victoria and to date has supported more than 79 organisations improving the mental health and wellbeing of young LGBTIQ Victorians.
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19 May

Supporting the mental health of workers during COVID-19
Managing the mental health of workers is an ongoing challenge for the building and construction industry. The added pressures of COVID-19 restrictions have the potential to negatively impact the mental health of workers, particularly physical distancing and isolation measures. Changes to the way work is done during the pandemic can also be a source of angst for many. The Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner has previously partnered in a mental health awareness campaign with BeyondBlue, and published a case study on Work and Life balance with ProBuild Constructions Victoria. The proactive assessment, awareness, and mitigation of both physical and mental health risks on building sites is essential, especially during these challenging times.
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18 May

Funding to support carers of people with mental illness during the pandemic appreciated
'The Government's announcement on Friday that $3.5 million will be available to support family and friend mental health carers under the National Mental Health and Wellbeing Pandemic Response Plan is most welcome,' said Mary Reid, Interim CEO of Carers Australia. 'While the coronavirus and the steps needed to contain it have affected many family and friend carers, carers of people with challenging behaviours and cognitive disorders frequently face additional challenges,' said Ms Reid.
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Have the COVID-19 workplace changes affected people's mental health?
Based on data collected through the Relationships Australia monthly survey, the research demonstrates the extensive mental health effects caused by changes to the nature of work, the working environment and people's workload. 'This research reveals that people from all aspects of the Australian workforce are feeling the effects of the COVID-19 workplace restrictions and changes,' said Relationships Australia National Executive Officer, Nick Tebbey. 'We are seeing that those who relied on their workplace for social stimulation are more affected by these changes. Furthermore, those who had relatively good mental health prior to the pandemic are reporting greater changes to their mental health,' Mr Tebbey said.
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15 May

COVID-19: $48.1 million for national Mental Health and Wellbeing Pandemic Response Plan
The Government is continuing to take action to help Australians whose mental health and wellbeing is being affected by the COVID-19 pandemic by providing an additional $48.1 million to support the Mental Health and Wellbeing Pandemic Response Plan presented to the National Cabinet, said Minister for Health Greg Hunt. This investment builds on approximately $500 million for mental health and suicide prevention announced by the Government since 30th January, including $64 million for suicide prevention, $74 million for preventative mental health services, and a significant proportion of the $669 million telehealth package to support MBS subsidised treatments provided by GPs, psychologists, psychiatrists and other mental health professionals.
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Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System

None this edition.

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Pharmaceuticals

20 May

Andrographis paniculata
Consumers and health professionals are advised that products containing the herb Andrographis paniculata (Andrographis) may be associated with changes in the sense of taste (also known as taste disturbance), including complete loss of taste, said the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and the Department of Health. Andrographis is a herbal ingredient permitted for use in low-risk medicines in Australia. Approximately 100 medicines listed in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) contain Andrographis.
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World Health Assembly vaccine agreement not fit for purpose
Commenting on a resolution on access to coronavirus vaccines, treatments and tests that has been agreed by Health Ministers at the World Health Assembly, Oxfam Australia Chief Executive Lyn Morgain said: 'Oxfam, along with other major organisations and former world leaders, economists and health experts, had urged governments and pharmaceutical companies to guarantee that vaccines, tests and treatments would be patent-free and equitably distributed to all nations and people.'
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19 May

Gold Max Pink capsules
The Department of Health and the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has tested a product labelled Gold Max Pink capsules and found that and found that the capsules contain the undeclared substance sildenafil. Consumers are advised that sildenafil is a prescription-only (S4) medicine in Australia. The supply of Gold Max Pink capsules containing undisclosed sildenafil is illegal. Gold Max Pink capsules have not been assessed by the TGA for quality, safety or efficacy as required under Australian legislation, and the place of manufacture is not approved by the TGA.
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Blood pressure medicines during COVID-19? Take them as usual
Keeping your blood pressure under control is especially important during the COVID-19 pandemic - so keep taking your blood pressure medicines! This is the latest advice about medicines on the NPS MedicineWise COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) web page which is regularly being updated with information for consumers as new evidence and advice emerges. 'Medicines that help lower blood pressure do not make COVID-19 more severe. The opposite is true,' said Dr Jill Thistlethwaite, GP and medical adviser at NPS MedicineWise.
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Pharmacists to be eligible to vaccinate outside of pharmacy
In a recent announcement by the NSW government, accredited pharmacist vaccinators in NSW will now be able to deliver vaccination services beyond the pharmacy environment, to better protect the most vulnerable of the community, said the Pharmacy Guild of Australia. Pharmacists are now able to deliver vaccination services in settings including Aged Care Facilities, Community Health Centres and Aboriginal Medical Services. Delivery of vaccination services outside the community pharmacy environment must be conducted in an immunisation service room, consulting room or immunisation area of which there are specific room requirements which must be upheld.
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Serious shortage medicine substitution authorisation order issued in NSW
In certain limited circumstances it is now legal for a community pharmacist to substitute different strengths or formulations of a prescribed medicine product which is unavailable, without contacting the prescriber, said Pharmacy Guild of Australia. Substitution is permitted where there is a Serious Shortage Medicine Substitution Notice published on the TGA website, and a Serious Shortage Medicine Substitution Authorisation Order has been issued under clause 42A of the NSW Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Regulation 2008.
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Research

21 May

Continuing to fund world-leading research
The Morrison Government continues to invest in world-leading research at Australian universities to deliver improvements to health, education and the economy. Minister for Education Dan Tehan announced another round of research funding with $35.1 million provided to 77 new research projects at Australian universities. Already this year, our Government has invested $125,250,067 in 139 research projects through the Australian Research Council (ARC). In 2019-20, around $9.6 billion in Commonwealth funding will be provided for research and development across all portfolios.
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WA: Funding breakthrough for WA health and medical research
Western Australia Minister for Health Roger Cook
said that WA is poised to be a leader in the future of health and medicine after the Western Australian Future Fund Amendment (Future Health Research and Innovation Fund) Bill passed State Parliament. The milestone legislation will give Western Australian health and medical researchers and innovators a secure and ongoing source of funding that will include an initial commitment of an extra $37 million over the next three years. The legislation repurposes the $1.4 billion WA Future Fund - allowing interest earned on it to be directed to local health and medical research, innovation and commercialisation.
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20 May

$400 million funding boost for health and medical research
The Government will invest almost $400 million in world-leading health and medical research projects to improve the lives of all Australians, said Minister for Health Greg Hunt. The Government will strengthen Australians' health through research to prevent illness and deliver better health care as Australia recovers and restores the nation in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 237 new projects will receive funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), with a further 30 grants to be funded through the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) Priority Round.
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$32 million for the next generation of clinician researchers to pursue critical health and medical research
The Department of Health said that the Australian Government will invest almost $32 million through the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) in world-leading health and medical research projects. This grant opportunity is part of the MRFF Clinician Researchers initiative, which will invest $190.8 million over 10 years in clinician researcher fellowships. This funding will enable Australia's health care professionals, who might otherwise have had to choose between life as a researcher or a clinician, to:
- drive research questions
- develop new discoveries
- apply best-practice care for their patients
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Five medical research projects recognised in the Northern Territory
Five researchers based at Menzies School of Health Research (Menzies) have received recognition in the form of Investigator Grants from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF). The projects will focus in the areas of improving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander kidney health, diabetes, early detection and treatment of rheumatic heart disease, moving towards the elimination of Chronic Hepatitis B in the Northern Territory and international work advancing the cure of malaria. Prof Cass said the Menzies projects, which support staff for five years will enable research teams to address critical health issues and find the best ways to tackle them.
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Obesity linked to part of the brain damaged by Alzheimer's
The hippocampus is the part of the brain impaired in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease, with the study's findings shedding new light on the possible drivers of the disease. The researchers analysed brain scans from more than 20,000 healthy men and women aged between 40 and 70 years and found smaller hippocampus volumes in those who either currently or previously carried excessive weight or suffered from obesity. 'We examined the link between fat mass and the brain because previous research has shown that having excessive fat mass in midlife can increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease by 35 percent,' Mr Ananthan Ambikairajah, a PhD scholar from the Australian National University (ANU), said.
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VIC: COVID-19 prevention trial opens for high risk healthcare workers
The first gold standard Australian clinical trial to determine whether the drug hydroxychloroquine can prevent COVID-19 is now open. The study, called COVID SHIELD, will recruit frontline and allied health care professionals, aiming to reduce the incidence of COVID-19 in the Australian healthcare workforce COVID SHIELD is a major collaborative effort led by the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research in partnership with human data science company IQVIA and healthcare providers across the country, including in Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia and the Australian Capital Territory.
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19 May

Regulation of stem cell treatments: information for practitioners
Some health practitioners offer stem cell treatments as a therapeutic or cosmetic treatment for their patients. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) is concerned that some practitioners may be offering treatments that are unproven, illegal and potentially harmful. The TGA has increased oversight of this industry with penalties enforced for non-compliance. This protects consumer health and safety as well as the reputations of legitimate clinics and practitioners. It also encourages clinical innovation. The regulatory provisions for autologous human cell and tissue treatments such as stem cell treatments in Australia are designed to:
- differentiate legitimate practitioners offering evidence-based clinical treatments from unscrupulous business practices offering costly, unapproved and unproven therapies.
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18 May

New COVID-19 research funding
MTPConnect, the industry growth centre set up to champion the Australian medtech sector will match $1m of funding for COVID-19 related research efforts. The third round of its Biomedical Translation Bridge (BTB) program aims to support small and medium enterprises, medical research institutes and universities conducting COVID-19 related research projects. 'Our program will support medical devices and diagnostics research, prophylactic development - such as vaccines - and therapeutic approaches that will make an impact in 12-months or less' said MTPConnect Managing Director, Dr Dan Grant.
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15 May

Government backs innovative COVID-19 research
The Government is supporting world-leading research into the latest COVID-19 treatments through a dedicated round of the Medical Research Future Fund's Biomedical Translation Bridge, said Minister Hunt. The Government, in partnership with the not-for-profit organisation MTPConnect, has announced a new round of its $22.3 million Biomedical Translation Bridge (BTB) Program to support COVID-19 related research projects. The BTB Program, now launching its third round, is a four-year Government initiative to help researchers transform their ideas into new treatments to help patients. This latest round will match funding of up to $1 million per project to help find new COVID- 19-related medical devices, diagnostics, vaccines or therapeutic approaches.
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Rural, Regional and Remote Health

20 May

Rural health journal shines a light on physical and mental health
National Rural Health Alliance (NRHA) CEO Dr Gabrielle O'Kane said that in addition to looking at timely issues like bushfires and COVID-19, this issue of the Journal had a special focus on the physical wellbeing of people living with a mental illness in rural and remote communities. 'Recent events have really brought the physical and mental health of people in rural Australia into focus,' said Dr O'Kane. 'In particular, bushfires and COVID-19 disproportionately affect people in rural communities, not least because of poorer access to health services and a higher likelihood of having multiple physical and mental health problems.'
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Remote pharmacies adapting to meet patient needs
Adapting to the COVID-19 crisis has seen the three remote pharmacies in the Kimberley Pharmacy Services group change the way they operate to ensure patients continue to get the medications and services they need, said the Pharmacy Guild of Australia. The group has pharmacies in Fitzroy, Derby and Broome in WA, and managing partner Hannah Mann said the onset of COVID-19 meant major changes for pharmacists, staff and patients. 'COVID-19 has basically turned our whole way of operating upside down,' Ms Mann said.
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15 May

Labor need to get their facts straight on rural health
'A failed amendment to legislation in Parliament highlights how little understanding the Labor Party has of regional Australia,' said Minister for Regional Health, Regional Communications and Local Government Mark Coulton. 'If their city-centric MPs headed bush, they would notice the Government has been hard at work improving access to health care for more than 8 million Australians living in rural and regional areas. Data from the past decade shows GP numbers in Australia have increased at triple the rate of the population. Unfortunately, the bulk of this growth has occurred in major capital cities and metropolitan areas.'
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Women's Health

21 May

Victorian Maternal and Child Health Service continues to operate
The Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) reassured young families that all Victorian councils' Maternal and Child Health Services continue to operate during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Maternal and Child Health Services have robust processes and measures in place to help combat the spread of coronavirus and keep nurses, parents, and babies safe. Cr Coral Ross, President of the MAV, said the Maternal and Child Health Service is a vital community service provided by local councils. 'Victorian councils have provided Maternal and Child Health Services to the community for over 100 years and continue to assist families during these uncertain times,' Ms Ross said.
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Transcripts

Minister for Health Greg Hunt
20 MAY: Transcript of Press Conference, Melbourne
Subjects: $400 million funding boost for health & medical research, World Health Assembly motion, COVIDSafe app, Domestic travel, Potential re-opening of state borders, Hydroxychloroquine

Minister for Foreign Affairs Marise Payne
20 MAY: Transcript of Interview with Sabra Lane, AM
Subjects: COVID19 inquiry, WHO, China-Australia relations, Senate Inquiry into Domestic Violence

Deputy Chief Medical Officer
20 MAY: Transcript of Press Conference, Canberra
Subjects: Newmarch aged care facility, 100 coronavirus-related deaths in Australia, COVIDSafe app, World Health Organization, Closure of state borders, Qantas

Australian Medical Association (AMA)
20 MAY: Transcript of Interview by President, Dr Tony Bartone, with Virginia Trioli, ABC Radio Melbourne
Subjects: COVID19, Aged-care centres outbreak, Under-resourcing

Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong
20 MAY: Transcript of Interview with Patricia Karvelas, ABC Afternoon Briefing
Subjects: Australia-China relations, Trade, US-China relations, World Health Assembly resolution, World Health Organisation, State border closures

Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack
19 MAY: Transcript of Interview with David Eisenhauer, Sounds of the Mountains Radio Interview
Subjects: COVID-19, Coronavirus, Emergency service workers, Health professionals, Regional COVID-19 respiratory clinics, Bushfire recovery

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Simon Birmingham
19 MAY: Transcript of Interview with Mel Doyle, The Latest
Subjects: Coronavirus, Tourism, China tariff, China-Australia trade relations

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Simon Birmingham
19 MAY: Transcript of Interview with Kieran Gilbert, Sky News, Live Afternoon Agenda
Subjects: Australian-China trade relationship, Exports, Australian barley, Free trade agreements, US-China trade agreements, Coronavirus, COVID-19

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews
19 MAY: Transcript of Interview with Jennifer Bechwati, Channel 7
Subjects: Coronavirus, Vaccine, Australia's capacity to manufacture vaccine

Assistant Treasurer Michael Sukkar
19 MAY: Transcript of Interview with Patricia Karvelas, ABC Radio National Drive
Subjects: COVID19, Economic support, Housing market and construction industry, Residential and commercial tenancies, First Home Loan Deposit Scheme

Assistant Treasurer Michael Sukkar
19 MAY: Transcript of Interview with Tom Connell, Sky News
Subjects: International inquiry into COVID-19, Coronavirus, China, Housing sector, Economic recovery, JobKeeper program, Construction sector, Apprentices

Minister for Health Greg Hunt
18 MAY: Speech at World Health Assembly
Subjects: Coronavirus, COVID-19, Social restrictions, World Health Organization, European Union, COVID-19 resolution

Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack
18 MAY: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Young
Subjects: Opening of the Young Respiratory Clinic, Regional centres, Australia's racing industry, COVIDSafe app, COVID-19, PPE, Animal welfare, Gambling

Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme Stuart Robert
18 MAY: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Gold Coast, QLD
Subjects: Hope Island COVID-19 Respiratory Clinic, Craig International Ballistics Defence Industry Contract, Disability Sector, COVIDSafe app

Minister for Foreign Affairs Marise Payne
18 MAY: Transcript of Press Conference
Subjects: COVID-19, World Health Assembly, Independent review into COVID-19, China, European Union, Trade war, Agriculture, G20, International community

Liberal Senator for Victoria James Paterson
18 MAY: Transcript of Interview with Paul Murray, Sky News
Subjects: Origins of the coronavirus, COVID-19, Relations with China, World Health Organisation, UN Security Council, International student market

Deputy Chief Medical Officer
18 MAY: Transcript of Interview by Deputy CMO, Professor Paul Kelly
Subjects: Coronavirus (COVID-19), Telehealth, GPs, Mental health, Social distancing, Health restrictions, Tracing app, Outbreaks, China, Vaccine, PPE

Shadow Minister for Health Chris Bowen
18 MAY: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Sydney
Subjects: COVID-19 restrictions easing, World Health Assembly motion, Aus/China relations, PM abandoning dental, Origins of COVID-19 inquiry

Shadow Minister for the NDIS Bill Shorten
18 MAY: Transcript of Interview with David Bevan, ABC Radio Adelaide
Subjects: NDIS, Death of Ann-Marie Smith, Quality and Safeguards Commission, Funding

Shadow Minister for Health Chris Bowen
16 MAY: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Sydney
Subjects: COVID-19 restrictions easing, Health, Mental health, Medicare, Elective surgery, PM, Public dental, China relationship, US & China, Economy, Jobs, JobKeeper, Fed Member for Dawson

Liberal Member for Mackellar Jason Falinski and Shadow Minister for Housing and Homelessness Jason Clare
16 MAY: Transcript of Interview with Johanna Nicholson & Fauziah Ibrahim, ABC Weekend Breakfast
Subjects: Mental health, Unemployment, COVID-19, Easing of restrictions, Economy, JobKeeper, JobSeeker, Welfare

Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Minister for Health Greg Hunt and Chief Medical Officer Brendan Murphy
15 MAY: Transcript of Press Conference, Australian Parliament House, Canberra
Subjects: COVID-19 update, Economic stability, Superannuation, Tourism, Elective surgery, Mental health, Foreign trade

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Reports

Private Health Insurance Circular PHI 35/20 - Private Health Insurance (Data Provision) Amendment Rules 2020 and Private Health Insurance (Health Insurance Business) Amendment Rules 2020
Department of Health

The delegate of the Minister for Health has made the Private Health Insurance (Data Provision) Amendment Rules 2020 and the Private Health Insurance (Health Insurance Business) Amendment Rules 2020 (the Rules), to amend the Private Health Insurance (Data Provision) Rules 2018 and the Private Health Insurance (Health Insurance Business) Rules 2018. The delegate made the Rules on 6 May 2020, and they were published on the Federal Register of legislation on 15 May 2020. The Rules will come into effect on 1 July 2020.
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Private Health Insurance Circular PHI 34/20 - Release of final 2020-21 data specifications for the HCP, HCP1, HCP2, GT-Dental, and PHDB data collections
Department of Health

This circular releases2020-21 data specifications for the following Hospital Casemix Protocol and Private Hospital Data Bureau data collections, effective 1 July 2020:
- HCP - Hospital to Insurer;
- HCP1 - Insurer to Department;
- HCP2 - Insurer to Department;
- GT-Dental - Insurer to Department; and
- PHDB - Hospital to Department.
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Inquiry into domestic violence with particular regard to violence against women and their children - Report
Senate Legal & Constitutional Affairs References Committee

The National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children 2010-2022 is a 12 year strategy designed to coordinate the efforts of governments at all levels, and the non-government sector, to 'make a significant and sustained reduction in violence against women and their children'. The National Plan was developed in partnership with all states and territories and released by the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) in February 2011. The Plan seeks to improve the effectiveness of government action by providing a national 'overarching mechanism' for coordination of programs, campaigns and service provision in the areas of family violence and sexual violence.
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Research Paper Series, 2019-20 - COVID-19 Australian Government roles and responsibilities - An overview - Paper
Department of Parliamentary Services (DPS), Parliamentary Library
The COVID-19 pandemic remains a constantly evolving situation and the Government's response involves a diverse range of activities and measures undertaken by a variety of Australian Public Service departments and agencies. This overview represents a snapshot of the COVID-19 related roles and responsibilities of these departments and agencies as at mid-May 2020 and is one of a range of publications on COVID-19 by the Parliamentary Library. Note that discussion of portfolio agencies is limited to those with clearly defined responsibilities or an otherwise obvious role in the Government's COVID-19 response.
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Household Impacts of COVID-19 Survey
Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS)

Nearly half (46%) of working Australians said they were working from home, with women more likely to do so than men (56% compared with 38%). The majority of Australians were continuing to keep their distance from people outside the household (94%) and avoid public spaces (85%) to protect their health. The most commonly experienced personal stressor due to COVID-19 was loneliness (22%), with women more likely to report feeling lonely than men (28% compared with 16%). One in six Australians (17%) used a Telehealth service in the previous four weeks, with persons with a mental health condition more likely to do so than those without a mental health condition (33%* compared with 15%).
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National Mental Health & Wellbeing Pandemic Response Plan
National Mental Health Commission (NMHC)

The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic is posing significant challenges for Australia including physical and mental health issues, economic consequences and disruptive changes to lifestyles of individuals, families and communities. Evidence shows there is likely to be a significant negative mental health impact from the pandemic and the measures needed to control it as well as from any mid to longterm economic consequences for individuals and the community. Currently available data indicate that there are higher levels of reported anxiety and psychological distress in the general population, and that some of those with severe, complex and chronic mental illness have disconnected from services.
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Tax Report 2019
Medibank

This Report provides information on Medibank's approach to tax governance and strategy, detailing tax-related payments for the year ended 30 June 2019 (FY19). Medibank makes a wide range of tax-related payments to governments in the jurisdictions in which it operates. In addition to paying corporate tax levied on profits generated for its shareholders, Medibank also pays goods and services tax (GST), fringe benefits tax (FBT), payroll tax, stamp duties, and health insurance levies. As an Australian employer, Medibank also collects and pays 'pay-as-you-go' (PAYG) taxes on behalf of employees, as well as contributing to our employees' superannuation.
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The influence of early life health conditions on life course health
Life Course Centre

For men, early mental health problems play a stronger role for all life course job-related health outcomes than other dimensions of childhood health, including the lowest probability of having ever worked, and when they work, accumulating the greatest number of work gaps, working less years in full-time work, and being most likely to retire early due to health problems. For women, these links between childhood health dimensions and life course outcomes are less clear-cut than for men. Women who reported poor/fair health and early mental health conditions had an increased number of work gaps and were more likely to retire early.
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COVID-19 and its effects on relationships
Relationships Australia

63% of respondents have experienced changes to their mental health in response to changes in their working conditions. Respondents who felt that their workplace was part of their social life were more likely to experience a change in mental health as a result of recent changes to work. Those who had worse mental health prior to the pandemic have experienced less changes to their mental health during the crisis. Industries have seen varying severity in workplace shifts. However, between 74% and 98% of respondents across every industry have reported 'significant changes' to their work since COVID-19 began.
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Working in new disability markets: A survey of Australia's disability workforce
Health Services Union, Australian Services Union, United Workers Union

This report provides information about the workforce delivering disability services and supports in the context of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in early 2020. The information comes from a national survey of disability workers which was co-designed by the UNSW research team and the unions representing disability workers, the Health Services Union, Australian Services Union and United Workers Union. The survey was designed to capture information from disability workers about the nature of the work they do and how it is changing; their experiences of working to support people with disability; and their perceptions of the NDIS.
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Home ward bound: features of hospital in the home use by major Australian hospitals, 2011-2017
Medical Journal of Australia

'The core aim of the Hospital in the Home (HIH) concept is to provide the skills, technologies, and support needed to treat patients at home who would otherwise require admission to hospital,' wrote the researchers, led by Associate Professor Michael Montalto, a senior consultant and Head of the Hospital in the Home Unit at Epworth HealthCare. 'Our study aimed to describe the uptake of HIH by major Australian hospitals and the characteristics of patients and their HIH admissions. Our secondary aim was to assess the change in the number of HIH admissions over 7 years relative to total hospital activity.'
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The quality of diagnosis and triage advice provided by free online symptom checkers and apps in Australia
Medical Journal of Australia

Researchers from Edith Cowan University in Perth tested 36 symptom checkers with 48 medical condition vignettes designed to assess both the diagnostic accuracy and appropriate triage advice. 'The 27 diagnostic symptom checkers listed the correct diagnosis first in 421 of 1170 vignette tests (36%), among the top three results in 606 tests (52%), and among the top 10 results in 681 tests (58%),' the authors, led by Michella Hill, found. 'Symptom checkers (SCs) using artificial intelligence algorithms listed the correct diagnosis first in 46% of tests compared with 32% for other SCs.'
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Improving care for older Australians Integrating GPs into residential facilities
Medical Journal of Australia

Residential aged care costs are a large and rapidly growing component of public expenditure in developed nations. In Australia, the Royal Australasian College of General Practitioners recommends the continuity model of care, in which general practitioners continue to provide care for their long term patients after they have moved to residential aged care facilities. However, this model has been criticised for causing delays in service provision, and also because responsibility for care is often transferred to hospitals in cases of emergency
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Hansards

Queensland

21 MAY 2020: QLD ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Ministerial Statements - Coronavirus, Health Update

20 MAY 2020: QLD ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Adjournment - Coronavirus, Health Response

20 MAY 2020: QLD ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Health Services

20 MAY 2020: QLD ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Health Services

20 MAY 2020: QLD ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Ministerial Statements - Coronavirus, Economic Response

19 MAY 2020: QLD ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Ministerial Response - Coronavirus, Health Update

Western Australia

21 MAY 2020: WA ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Bills - Western Australian Future Fund Amendment (Future Health Research and Innovation Fund) Bill 2019 - Returned, Consideration in Detail

21 MAY 2020: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Bills - Western Australian Future Fund Amendment (Future Health Research and Innovation Fund) Bill 2019 - Assembly's Message

21 MAY 2020: WA ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Coronavirus, Health System Response

21 MAY 2020: WA ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Department of Health, St John Ambulance Contract

21 MAY 2020: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Discharge of Order and Referral to the Standing Committee on Legislation - Motion - Work Health and Safety Bill 2019

21 MAY 2020: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Kalgoorlie Health Campus - Mri Machine

21 MAY 2020: WA ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Bills - Western Australian Future Fund Amendment (Future Health Research and Innovation Fund) Bill 2019 - Returned, Consideration in Detail

21 MAY 2020: QLD ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Ministerial Statements - Coronavirus, Health Update

21 MAY 2020: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Bills - Western Australian Future Fund Amendment (Future Health Research and Innovation Fund) Bill 2019 - Assembly's Message

20 MAY 2020: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Bills - Western Australian Future Fund Amendment (Future Health Research and Innovation Fund) Bill 2019 - Committee, Third Reading (162KB)

20 MAY 2020: WA ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital - Emergency Department

20 MAY 2020: WA ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Statement by Minister for Mental Health - Coronavirus - Community Health and Wellbeing

19 MAY 2020: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - WA Country Health Service - Patient Information

19 MAY 2020: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Coronavirus - Residential Aged-Care Facilities

19 MAY 2020: WA ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Statement by Minister for Health - Coronavirus - Health Update

19 MAY 2020: WA ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Coronavirus - Elective Surgery - Reinstatement

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Court Cases

None this edition.

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New Regulations

Federal

Biosecurity (Human Biosecurity Emergency) (Human Coronavirus with Pandemic Potential) (Emergency Requirements) Amendment Determination (No. 2) 2020
Legislative Instrument - F2020L00594
The purpose of the Instrument is to amend the Biosecurity (Human Biosecurity Emergency) (Human Coronavirus with Pandemic Potential) (Emergency Requirements) Determination 2020 to extend the operation of its provisions until 17 September 2020. The Determination prevents a cruise ship from entering Australian territory or Australian ports before 15 June 2020, unless an exemption applies to the ship.
Explanatory Statement

Health Insurance (Section 3C General Medical Services - COVID-19 Telehealth and Telephone Attendances) Amendment (Further Expansion of Remote Attendance Items) Determination 2020
Legislative Instrument - F2020L00593

The purpose of the Health Insurance (Section 3C General Medical Services - COVID-19 Telehealth and Telephone Attendances) Amendment (Further Expansion of Remote Attendance Items) Determination 2020 (the Amendment Determination) is to expand the range of specialist and other health professional services available to support patient access to these attendances in a safe and timely manner. This will assist to reduce the risk of COVID-19 for health professionals and for patients. From 22 May 2020, nine new items will be listed. These include services by specialist anaesthetists, dietitians and dental practitioners.
Explanatory Statement

Health Insurance (Section 3C Pathology Service - COVID-19) Amendment (No. 3) Determination 2020
Legislative Instrument - F2020L00592

The purpose of the Health Insurance (Section 3C Pathology Services - COVID-19) Amendment (No. 3) Determination 2020 is to amend the Health Insurance (Section 3C Pathology Services - COVID-19) Determination 2020 (the Principal Determination) to refer to clauses in the pathology services table, as renumbered in the Health Insurance (Pathology Services Table) Regulations 2020 (PST 2020). Although Schedule 1 applies retrospectively, it is not contrary to section 12 of the Legislation Act 2003 as it does not disadvantage a person and only applies a liability on the Commonwealth for the retrospective period.
Explanatory Statement

Private Health Insurance (Health Insurance Business) Amendment Rules 2020
Legislative Instrument - F2020L00578

The Private Health Insurance (Health Insurance Business) Amendment Rules 2020 (the Amendment Rules) amend the Private Health Insurance (Health Insurance Business) Rules 2018 (the Rules) to update the kinds of statistical information to be provided by hospitals to private health insurers and by private hospitals to the Department of Health (the Department).
Explanatory Statement

Private Health Insurance (Data Provision) Amendment Rules 2020
Legislative Instrument - F2020L00577

The Private Health Insurance (Data Provision) Amendment Rules 2020 (the Amendment Rules) amend the Private Health Insurance (Data Provision) Rules 2018 (the Rules) to update the information, relating to the treatment received by insured persons, that private health insurers must give to the Secretary of the Department of Health (the Department) under subsection 172-10(1) of the Act.
Explanatory Statement

Privacy Amendment (Public Health Contact Information) (Data Store Administrator) Determination 2020
Notifiable Instrument - F2020N00059

The object of this instrument is to make the Digital Transformation Agency the data store administrator for the purposes of all relevant provisions under Part VIIIA of the Privacy Act 1988.
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Proclamations

None this edition.

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Gazette Notices

Victoria

21 MAY 2020: VIC GOVERNMENT GAZETTE No. G 20: Government and Outer Budget Sector Agencies Notices - Health Services Act 1988 - Section 40C(1) - Appointment of a Delegate to the Board of Directors of Swan Hill District Health - Instrument of Appointment

21 MAY 2020: VIC GOVERNMENT GAZETTE No. G 20: Government and Outer Budget Sector Agencies Notices - Health Complaints Act 2016 - Section 95 - Prohibition Order - 3 Notices

21 MAY 2020: VIC GOVERNMENT GAZETTE No. G 20: Government and Outer Budget Sector Agencies Notices - Health Complaints Act 2016 - Section 90 - Interim Prohibition Order

Queensland

18 MAY 2020: QLD GOVERNMENT GAZETTE: Extraordinary Gazette - Mental Health Act 2016 - Section 329 - Declaration - Authorised Mental Health Service - Vol. 384, No. 21 (250KB)

18 MAY 2020: QLD GOVERNMENT GAZETTE: Extraordinary Gazette - Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 - Approval of Persons to Hospital Boards - Vol. 384, No. 20 (267KB)

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Consolidated Legislation

Federal

National Health (Highly specialised drugs program) Special Arrangement 2010
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2020C00405

PB 116 of 2010 Arrangements as amended, taking into account amendments up to National Health (Highly specialised drugs program) Special Arrangement Amendment Instrument 2020 (No. 4) (PB 37 of 2020).
Administered by: Health
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National Health (Efficient Funding of Chemotherapy) Special Arrangement 2011
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2020C00403

PB 79 of 2011 Arrangements as amended, taking into account amendments up to National Health (Efficient Funding of Chemotherapy) Special Arrangement Amendment Instrument 2020 (No. 4).
Administered by: Health
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Therapeutic Goods Regulations 1990
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2020C00410

SR 1990 No. 394 Regulations as amended, taking into account amendments up to Therapeutic Goods Amendment (Radiopharmaceuticals and Radiopharmaceutical Active Ingredients) Regulations 2020
Administered by: Health
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MRCA Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (No. MRCC 44/2013)
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2020C00395

MRCC 44/2013 Schemes as amended, taking into account amendments up to Veterans' Affairs Pharmaceutical Benefits Schemes Amendment (Special Arrangement-COVID-19 Supply of Pharmaceutical Benefits) Determination 2020.
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National Health (Listing of Pharmaceutical Benefits) Instrument 2012 (PB 71 of 2012)
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2020C00394

PB 71 of 2012 Other as amended, taking into account amendments up to National Health (Listing of Pharmaceutical Benefits) Amendment Instrument 2020 (No. 4) (PB 33 of 2020).
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New Bills

None this edition.

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New Acts

None this edition.

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