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)
23 September
Australia now eligible to purchase COVID-19 vaccine doses through COVAX
The COVAX facility provides access to a large portfolio of COVID-19 vaccine candidates and manufacturers across the world. Under the agreement, Australia will commit an initial $123.2 million to be part of the purchasing mechanism of the facility, meaning Australia can receive offers to purchase vaccines when they become available. This investment is in addition to the agreements with Oxford University/AstraZeneca and University of Queensland/CSL for supply of vaccines, opening up additional supply options for Australia, said Minister for Health Greg Hunt and Minister for Foreign Marise Payne.
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Thorough documenting of COVID-19 patient screening in Australian hospitals is urgently needed
New Australian research on COVID-19 screening of hospital patients during the first wave of the pandemic found that the documentation of patient screening procedures before surgery could be improved. The COVID Screen Audit study has been published in Australian Health Review, the journal of the Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association (AHHA). Research team leader Professor David Story (University of Melbourne) said the study analysed the admission records of 2,197 patients who underwent elective and non-elective surgery at two major Melbourne hospitals between 1 April and 10 May 2020.
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QLD: Health heroes mapping the way to tackle COVID-19
Queensland Minister for Health Steven Miles and Queensland Member for Gaven Meaghan Scanlon saw first hand how epidemiologists used a contract tracing app which was developed in a matter of weeks to help fight COVID-19 on the Gold Coast. The Deputy Premier visited the Carrara Health Precinct on the Gold Coast to thank staff for their tireless efforts to support Queensland's COVID-19 response. 'Queensland's health response has been possible due to the hard work of our health heroes,' Mr Miles said.
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22 September
NSW: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) statistics - Two new cases of COVID-19 were diagnosed
Two new cases of COVID-19 were diagnosed in the 24 hours to 8pm, bringing the total number of cases in NSW to 4,017, said the NSW Department of Health. Both are returned overseas travellers in hotel quarantine. There were 7,616 tests reported in the 24-hour reporting period, compared with 7,765 in the previous 24 hours. NSW Health has been and continues to strongly encourage people to wear masks when unable to physically distance, particularly in indoor settings and on public transport, to keep everyone safe. As previously advised, when taking taxis or rideshare commuters should sit in the back and wear a mask.
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WA: COVID-19 update
The WA Department of Health has reported three new cases of COVID-19 in Western Australia, bringing the State's total to 665. All three cases are returned overseas travellers, aged in their 30s and 40s. Two are West Australian residents and one is from interstate. There are now six active cases being monitored. To date, 650 confirmed cases have recovered from the virus in WA. 758 people presented to WA COVID-19 clinics - 735 were assessed and 728 swabbed.
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21 September
NSW: Public health alert
NSW Health is alerting the public to a further location visited by a person who tested positive to COVID recently. The case dined at the Moorebank Sports Club at Hammondville on the evening of Monday, 14 September. Anyone who attended the club at this time should monitor for symptoms, and if they appear, get tested and isolate until they receive a negative result. NSW Health is working with the venue to identify people who attended the club at this time, and will contact patrons to identify close contacts.
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20 September
Further investment in three new Australian COVID-19 vaccine research projects
The Government will invest almost $6 million in additional funding from the Medical Research Future Fund's Coronavirus Research Response to support research and development of three Australian COVID-19 vaccines, said Minister Hunt. The rapid development of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines is a critical Australian Government priority. Under the competitive, peer reviewed COVID-19 Vaccine Candidate Research Grant Opportunity, funding will be allocated for the further development of three COVID-19 vaccines. The University of Melbourne will receive almost $3 million to develop two vaccine candidates.
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NSW: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) statistics
Two new cases of COVID-19 were diagnosed, bringing the total number of cases in NSW to 4,011. Sadly, there was one COVID-related death reported in this period, taking the overall number of deaths in NSW to 55. A man in his 70s, whose COVID-19 infection was linked to the Sydney CBD cluster, passed away on Saturday 19 September. NSW Health extends condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time. There were 13,635 tests reported in the 24-hour reporting period, compared with 15,239 in the previous 24 hours.
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WA: COVID-19 update
The WA Department of Health has reported one new case of COVID-19 in Western Australia. The new case - a 13-year-old male - returned to Perth from overseas, is a close contact of a confirmed case, and is in hotel quarantine. The State's total now stands at 662. There are three active cases being monitored. To date, 650 confirmed cases have recovered from the virus in WA. 437 people presented to WA COVID-19 clinics - 433 were assessed and 426 swabbed.
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19 September
NSW: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) statistics
Three new cases of COVID-19 were diagnosed and one previous case has been excluded, bringing the total number of cases in NSW to 4,009, said NSW Health. There were 15,239 tests reported in the 24-hour reporting period, compared with 16,843 in the previous 24 hours. Of the three new cases:
- Two are returned overseas travellers in hotel quarantine
- One is locally acquired and under investigation.
The locally acquired case worked at Concord Hospital while potentially infectious. The case cared for patients with COVID-19 and further investigation is underway to identify how the infection was acquired. Contact tracing is underway.
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NSW: Public health alert
NSW Health is alerting the public to the following locations in Western and South Western Sydney and the South Coast visited by a person who tested positive for COVID-19. They are also warning people who may have taken taxis in Western and South Western Sydney to be alert for symptoms. Anyone who attended the following venues for a least one hour during the following times is considered to be a close contact and is being directed to get tested and isolate for 14 days. They must stay isolated for the entire period, even if a negative test result is received:
- Campbelltown Golf Club, Glen Alpine
- Milton Ulladulla Ex Servos Club.
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WA: COVID-19 update
The WA Department of Health has reported no new cases of COVID-19 in Western Australia. The State's total remains at 661. There are three active cases being monitored. To date, 649 confirmed cases have recovered from the virus in WA. 782 people presented to WA COVID-19 clinics - 766 were assessed and 763 swabbed.
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18 September
QLD: COVID-19 - Saturday September 12 to Friday September 18 - Locally made PPE, border to reopen to ACT, more international arrivals
More COVID-19 PPE supplies will be sourced locally, travel will soon be permitted from the ACT and more international arrivals will be accepted, after a week in which new COVID-19 cases were kept below 10. 5 new cases were reported from Saturday to Friday, leaving 25 active cases, 1,112 recovered and a total of 1,150 as at Friday September 18. Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced a target of 25 per cent of PPE bought by the Government to be made in Queensland, while a new PPE testing facility would be established at Meadowbrook.
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TAS: Sensible transition to easing border restrictions
The health, safety and wellbeing of Tasmanians throughout the COVID-19 pandemic has been the Tasmanian Government's number one priority. The restrictions that have been put in place to keep Tasmanians safe have been difficult. 'As a result of the current situation and the lessening risk to our State, we are implementing on public health advice a sensible glide-path transition as part of a three-step process to ease border restrictions in the lead up to the 1 December date,' said Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein.
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WA: COVID-19 update - 18 September 2020
The WA Department of Health has reported zero new cases of COVID-19 in Western Australia. The State's total remains at 661. There are three active cases being monitored. To date, 649 confirmed cases have recovered from the virus in WA. 507 people presented to WA COVID-19 clinics - 495 were assessed and 491 swabbed.
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Aged Care
24 September
Seniors should live the best of lives: International Day of Older Persons and the Decade of Healthy Ageing
Leading Age Services Australia (LASA) is actively supporting the 1 October United Nations International Day of Older Persons and the beginning of the World Health Organisation's Decade of Healthy Ageing, as part of its quest to help older Australians live the best lives possible. 'Celebrating Australia's respect for ageing and the capacity to live longer lives to the full is a sign of our success as a society,' said LASA CEO Sean Rooney. 'Realising better ageing futures for the growing numbers of older Australians will help build stronger and more sustainable communities.'
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Government drops the ball on aged care checks
The Government's aged care regulator has visited just 1 in 6 aged care homes to check infection control practises more than two months after fresh outbreaks of COVID-19 in Victoria. The latest publicly available figures reveal just 448 aged care homes nationally have been visited by the Government's aged care regulator to check compliance with PPE and infection control arrangements, said Shadow Minister for Ageing and Seniors Julie Collins.
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23 September
Operational update - Victorian Aged Care Response Centre
There are currently 328 active cases in aged care in Victoria, less than a sixth of the peak of 2075 in August. There have been a cumulative total of 4568 cases in aged care in Victoria: 1960 residents; 2006 staff; and 602 close contacts which are neither staff nor residents of the facility. Total number of deaths associated with aged care outbreaks in Victoria is 604. There were 3 aged care related deaths reported, said the Department of Health and Victorian Aged Care Response Centre (VACRC).
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Scott Morrison must finally fix home care crisis
The Government must use the upcoming Budget to finally fix the crisis of more than 100,000 older Australians waiting for aged care at home. The stark difference in COVID-19 outcomes in aged care will only accelerate the number of older Australians wanting to receive aged care at home. The latest data shows there has been seven deaths among the nearly one million Australians receiving aged care at home, compared with more than 600 deaths among the 200,000 people living in aged care homes, said Shadow Minister Collins.
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22 September
Aged care outbreaks decline as efforts focus on prevention and recovery
The Department of Health and VACRC said that as COVID-19 case numbers in aged care continue to fall in Victoria in line with the significant decline in community transmission, the Response Centre is shifting gear to focus on prevention and recovery, including returning residents to their homes; whilst continuing to support facilities with existing outbreaks. The number of active cases in aged care peaked at 2075 on 16 August 2020. Active cases have now dropped to less than a sixth of that to 328, with 24 new aged care cases reported. Looking at the monthly trend in the number of aged care facilities with outbreaks, September is also experiencing a significant drop.
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VIC: Extra upgrades for Victoria's public aged care facilities
The Victorian Government is upgrading more than 50 public sector residential aged care services, delivering hundreds of new jobs and ensuring thousands of older Victorians continue to get the care and comfort they deserve. Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and Victorian Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Luke Donnellan announced $30 million in funding to improve Victoria's public sector residential aged care services, home to some of the most vulnerable older Victorians. The package will deliver $20 million to upgrade 33 facilities that collectively operate 1,787 aged care beds - including 267 beds that are dedicated to supporting the mental health of older Victorians.
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21 September
Lifting the burden for those living with dementia
Helping lift the burden for people living with dementia and those who care for them is the focus of an awareness campaign across Australia. With the theme 'A little support makes a lot of difference', Dementia Action Week starts on World Alzheimer's Day. Minister for Aged Care and Senior Australians Richard Colbeck said both initiatives provide an opportunity to help those grappling with the difficult health diagnosis. Around Australia more than 447,000 people live with dementia. Alzheimer's is the most common form.
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Carers Australia supports call for a dementia-friendly nation
This year's Dementia Action Week is shining a spotlight on the stigma and social isolation experienced by people with dementia and often by those family members and friends who care for them. Results of a survey released by Dementia Australia indicate that 90 percent of family members and friends say that their friend or relative with dementia is treated with less respect than other people, 73 percent say that people make jokes at the expense of their friend or relative with dementia, and 96 percent say people don't know how act toward people with dementia, said Carers Australia.
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Discrimination a real issue for people living with dementia, survey finds
Three out of four people who live with dementia say people don't keep in touch like they used to, while 65 per cent say people they know have been avoiding or excluding them, results from a Dementia Australia survey have found. The survey findings, released at the start of Dementia Action Week 2020, reveal just how big an issue discrimination is and the impacts it has for people living with dementia, their families and carers. Dementia affects close to half a million Australians and that number is set to double in the next 25 years.
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Workers demand Action for Aged Care
The unions representing aged care workers and the ACTU have launched a comprehensive plan to fix the broken aged care system, protect workers who have been at the front line of the fight against the virus and provide better quality care to older Australians. The HSU, ANMF and UWU represent workers who do invaluable work in incredibly difficult conditions but have been let down by a Government who has ignored critical issues in aged care. Secure jobs for workers in aged care means better quality care for older Australians.
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Dementia Action Week
Labor welcomes the start of Dementia Australia's Dementia Action Week and reiterates its call for the Government to make dementia a priority and invest in awareness and better care. Dementia is not a normal part of ageing - it is a serious and terminal illness that is impacting on and taking the lives of more and more Australians. 'Sadly we know dementia is the leading cause of death for women and the second leading cause of death for all Australians,' said Shadow Minister Collins.
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VIC: Aged care outbreaks decline as efforts focus on prevention and recovery
The number of active cases in aged care peaked at 2075 on 16 August 2020. Active cases have now dropped to less than a sixth of that to 328, with 24 new aged care cases reported. VACRC Executive Officer, Joe Buffone said, 'With the acute phase of the emergency response now passing, it's appropriate to focus on the recovery phase, including the return of residents to their homes, and continuing prevention activities to strengthen the first line of defence against the virus.'
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18 September
New evidence exposes Prime Minister's aged care surge workforce failure
New reports have revealed just two nurses were looking after 110 residents at COVID-hit Epping Gardens aged care home when the Australian Deference Force (ADF) were forced to intervene. At the time 70 residents were already COVID positive and 20 more were showing symptoms. This is further evidence of just how badly the Government's surge workforce strategy failed in Victorian aged care homes. It is completely unacceptable that there were just two nurses looking after 70 residents who had tested positive to COVID-19 while 20 more were symptomatic, said Shadow Minister Collins.
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Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety
22 September
Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality & Safety
22 SEP 2020: Transcript of Proceedings - Sydney - Day 97
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21 September
Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality & Safety
21 SEP 2020: Transcript of Proceedings - Sydney - Day 96
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18 September
Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality & Safety
18 SEP: Transcript of Proceedings - Sydney - Day 95
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Allied Health
None this edition.
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Children's Health
24 September
Governments must commit to ending RHD
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) called on all levels of government to commit to a new strategy to rid Australia of the scourge of rheumatic heart disease by 2031. Once a disease of over-crowded and unsanitary inner-city slums, RHD has long been consigned to the history books for most Australians. However, it continues to devastate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. 'As a founding member of the END RHD Coalition, the AMA welcomes the launch of the RHD Endgame Strategy,' AMA President, Dr Omar Khorshid, said. 'RHD starts as a sore throat, or a skin infection known as 'school sores', yet every year it kills people and devastates lives.'
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Endgame for deadly heart disease will save hundreds of lives
A deadly yet entirely preventable heart disease taking the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is finally on the verge of elimination thanks to new research. The RHD Endgame Strategy: the blueprint to eliminate rheumatic heart disease in Australia by 2031, has been five years in the making and pairs research by leading infectious diseases specialists with the knowledge and experience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders across the country. Produced by the End Rheumatic Heart Disease Centre of Research Excellence, based at Perth's Telethon Kids Institute, with the backing of 25 leading health and research organisations.
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19 September
New projections for Australia's 10 year fertility rate
Australia's fertility rate will temporarily dip in 2021 following the COVID-19 pandemic before rising again in the mid-2020's and settling to a long-term average by 2030, said Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge. The first research report commissioned by the Government's Centre for Population provides a road map for Australia's population composition in the post- COVID-19 years. A Projection of Australia's Future Fertility Rate forecasts the fertility rate will drop to 1.59 babies per woman in 2021 compared with 1.70 babies per woman in 2018 and then transition to a long-term average of 1.62 in 2030.
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Clinical Governance
23 September
ACT: Territory Opposition declare war on hospital wait times
Canberra families cannot afford four more years of deepening crises in the health system. Labor's plan to potter around and delay action for four more years will set Canberra backwards and negatively impact patient outcomes. Under Labor, Canberrans are forced to wait almost a year for surgery, and that's not including the time it takes to get an initial appointment. Some children are waiting up to four years just for an initial appointment with a health specialist., said ACT Leader of the Opposition Alistair Coe.
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22 September
Therapeutic Goods (Medical Devices - Excluded Purposes) Specification
The Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet announced that the Department of Health remade without significant amendments the Therapeutic Goods (Excluded Purposes) Specification 2010, which will sunset on 1 October 2020. The newly made Therapeutic Goods (Medical Devices - Excluded Purposes) Specification 2020 comes into effect on 1 October 2020 and will sunset on 1 October 2030. The Specification, which is made under the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989, was first made in 2010 to set out exclusions from the permitted supply of specific categories of in-vitro diagnostic medical devices for self-testing.
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GenesisCare fined $12,600 for alleged unlawful importation of KN95 face masks in relation to COVID-19
The TGA, as part of the Department of Health, has issued an infringement notice for $12,600 to Sydney-based company GenesisCare Clinical CRO Pty Ltd for the alleged unlawful importation of KN95 face masks in relation to COVID-19. GenesisCare allegedly breached a condition of the Therapeutic Goods (Medical Devices-Face Masks and Other Articles) (COVID-19 Emergency) Exemption 2020 by importing KN95 face masks that were not, at the time of the importation, included in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) and were not being imported for supply to the National Medical Stockpile.
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Leading health groups call on government to address climate health impacts in National Preventive Health Strategy
32 health groups released a joint statement calling on the Government to address climate change in the National Preventive Health Strategy, which is currently in development. The Strategy's Consultation Paper does not include climate change in its six focus areas, nor even mention 'climate change'. The groups include: Climate and Health Alliance (CAHA), Australian Health Promotion Association (AHPA), Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF), Consumers Health Forum of Australia, Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association (AHHA) and the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). See the full list of signatories in the Joint Statement.
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18 September
Subsidised Q Fever vaccine a must after another NQ outbreak
Member for Kennedy Bob Katter is calling on the Minister for Health to subsidise the vaccine for the debilitating Q Fever infection, following another outbreak in North Queensland that is impacting livestock industry workers. Q Fever is a bacterial infection caused by the bacteria Coxiella burnetii. The bacteria are most commonly found in cattle, sheep, and goats around the world, and humans typically get Q Fever when they breathe in dust that has been contaminated by infected animals. Mr Katter said the latest outbreak in North Queensland should be taken seriously and that the Government must act.
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Construction and Health Infrastructure
None this edition.
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Dental
None this edition.
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Disabilities
24 September
Update on NDIS participants and COVID-19
Minister for National Disability Insurance Scheme Stuart Robert announced the daily update on NDIS participants and workforce and COVID-19 for Thursday, 24 September 2020. The reporting will ensure accurate and timely information is being provided to the community. The data is collated through reporting mechanisms of the NDIS Quality and Safeguard Commission and compiled by the Commonwealth's NDIS Critical Response Group.
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52 Australian leaders participate in the Auslan Community Leaders Challenge
On Wednesday 23rd September, the United Nations sanctioned International Day of Sign Languages, the Auslan Community Leaders Challenge hit social media. Leonie Jackson, Executive Manager, Advocacy and Strategic Partnerships at Deaf Services and the Deaf Society said, 'The second Auslan Community Leaders Challenge invites Australian Community Leaders to demonstrate their support for 30,000 Australians who use Auslan; Australian Sign Language, as their primary language. This year 52 Community Leaders accepted the challenge to try their hand at signing their name and their support for the Deaf community.'
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23 September
Sign language milestone for Senior Australians
Senior Australians who are deaf or hard of hearing will have access to sign language services for a broader range of daily activities as part of a Federal Government funding boost. A $13 million injection will mean sign language services will be more accessible for deaf elders aged 65 and over. Minister for Aged Care and Senior Australians, Richard Colbeck, said the initiative marked an important milestone for elders who use Auslan in their everyday communication.
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Update on NDIS participants and COVID-19
Minister Robert released the daily update on NDIS participants and workforce and COVID-19 for Wednesday, 23 September 2020. The reporting will ensure accurate and timely information is being provided to the community. The data is collated through reporting mechanisms of the NDIS Quality and Safeguard Commission and compiled by the Commonwealth's NDIS Critical Response Group.
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Queensland transition to the NDIS completed
Queensland's transition to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) will be officially completed on 1 October 2020, when NDIS Full Scheme arrangements take effect, announced Queensland Minister for Disability Services Coralee O'Rourke. There are now around 85,000 Queenslanders in, or currently seeking access to, the NDIS. The commencement of Full Scheme arrangements means the total combined investment in the NDIS from the Commonwealth and Queensland governments is expected to reach more than $4 billion in 2020-21, said Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Stuart Robert.
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22 September
Update on NDIS participants and COVID-19
Minister Robert released the daily update on NDIS participants and workforce and COVID-19 for Tuesday, 22 September 2020. The reporting will ensure accurate and timely information is being provided to the community. The data is collated through reporting mechanisms of the NDIS Quality and Safeguard Commission and compiled by the Commonwealth's NDIS Critical Response Group.
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21 September
Update on NDIS participants and COVID-19
Below is the daily update on NDIS participants and workforce and COVID-19 for Monday, 21 September 2020. The reporting will ensure accurate and timely information is being provided to the community. The data is collated through reporting mechanisms of the NDIS Quality and Safeguard Commission and compiled by the Commonwealth's NDIS Critical Response Group, said Minister Robert.
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Victorian Disability Support Worker priority COVID-19 testing and accessing PPE
The disability sector is one of several that the Victorian Government is working with to help stop the spread of COVID-19. All disability support workers residing or working in Dandenong, Casey and surrounding areas are encouraged to get tested for COVID-19, whether or not they currently display symptoms. Tests will be provided on a priority basis at DHHS funded clinics. Individuals should identify themselves as disability support workers, said National Disability Services (NDS).
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VIC: Simple change to restrictions will transform pain relief for Victorians in need
There's an urgent need to reopen community pools to people with a disability for hydrotherapy treatment and water-based pain relief activities that require use of a hoist. Victorian Shadow Minister for Disability Tim Bull said the past few months had been extraordinarily hard on people with special needs and acquired injuries who had been denied access to the form of exercise that provides them with a level of comfort. For many people, it's their only reliable form of pain relief.
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Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability
None this edition.
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E-Health
None this edition.
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Education and Training
None this edition.
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Funding
None this edition.
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Health Professionals
25 September
World Pharmacists Day 2020: $25 million investment to improve the safe use of medicines through pharmacy
The Government will invest $25 million through the landmark Medical Research Future Fund for research to improve the safe use of medicines and medicines intervention by pharmacists, said Minister for Health Greg Hunt. The new Quality, Safety and Effectiveness of Medicine Use and Medicine Intervention by Pharmacists MRFF Grant Opportunity will support the Quality Use of Medicine and Medicine Safety National Health Priority, and is part of the Government's significant ongoing investments aimed at improving access to medicines and the safe use of medicines in the community.
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23 September
Australians say health workers should get COVID jab first
A survey of more than 3,000 Australians used an experimental approach to identify who Australians think should be the first groups to receive an effective vaccine once developed. Paramedics topped the list, followed by aged and disabled carers, registered nurses, nursing support workers and general practitioners. Report co-author Professor Nicholas Biddle, from the ANU Centre for Social Research and Methods, said the study was the first test of the relative weight Australians put on different individuals' characteristics in terms of who should receive a vaccine first. The survey also examined how respondents' characteristics influenced their decisions.
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22 September
29 medical groups sign up to transparency in billing
A further 12 new medical groups have joined with the Australian Medical Association (AMA) and 16 other leading medical organisations to sign up to a guide aimed at empowering patients with important information to understand medical costs. Peak bodies representing paediatric surgeons to pathologists, ophthalmologists to oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and anaesthetists to sport and exercise physicians have signed up to the Informed Financial Consent: A Collaboration Between Doctors and Patients guide. The guide gives patients confidence to discuss and question fees with their doctors before their treatment, lessening the chance of unexpected bills afterwards.
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19 September
WA: Health promotion scholarships propelling career pathways
Western Australian health promotion graduates will soon be able to apply for scholarships under Healthway's Australian Health Promotion Association (AHPA) Scholarship Program. Over the next three years, the Healthway funding of $659,879 will go towards supporting new graduates to develop health promotion skills, on-the-job experience and career pathway opportunities. Led by the AHPA (WA Branch), in partnership with Healthway, the program will offer up to four scholarships each year from the following categories: graduate scholarships; Aboriginal scholarships; and regional and remote scholarships.
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Hospitals
23 September
Thorough documenting of COVID-19 patient screening in Australian hospitals is urgently needed
New Australian research on COVID-19 screening of hospital patients during the first wave of the pandemic found that the documentation of patient screening procedures before surgery could be improved. The COVID Screen Audit study has been published in Australian Health Review, the journal of the Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association (AHHA). Research team leader Professor David Story (University of Melbourne) said the study analysed the admission records of 2,197 patients who underwent elective and non-elective surgery at two major Melbourne hospitals between 1 April and 10 May 2020.
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21 September
Health messages to help stop patient harm in hospitals
The International Consortium for Communication in Health Care (IC4CH) brings together leading experts from around the globe to drive healthcare communication research and training for improved patient safety and outcomes. Professor Diana Slade from the ANU Institute for Communication in Health Care said in Australia an estimated 500,000 people are harmed by the hospitals they seek help from each year. 'When these incidents are investigated over 90 per cent are found to have a communication failure component,' Professor Slade said. 'That's at least 450,000 patients.'
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SA: New service and beds boost to ease pressure on emergency departments
SA Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade said the CALHN Hospital Avoidance and Supported Discharge Service, run in partnership with the SA Ambulance Service, will help take pressure off the State's acute health system and deliver more care options for patients. The service operates three rapid assessment bays, with additional procedure and treatment rooms. It is supported by speciality face-to-face and telehealth consultations as well as access to ultrasound, basic X-rays and point of care testing. At present it can see up to 20 patients per day.
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Insurance
None this edition.
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Medicare
None this edition.
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Men's Health
None this edition.
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Mental Health
23 September
VIC: Supporting mental health and AOD services and their workers
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and Victorian Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley announced over $21 million in funding to support the ongoing safe operation of mental health and AOD services across the state. In an effort to reduce the need for staff to work across multiple mental health and AOD sites, the Government will provide $5 million to increase hourly rates or provide retainers for NGO workers, as well as funding consistent backfill for staff who may be unable to work due to exposure or contraction of coronavirus.
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21 September
New open arms office in Melbourne
Veterans and their families in Melbourne will have easier access to Open Arms - Veterans & Families Counselling (Open Arms) with the office relocating to 303 Collins Street. Minister for Veterans' Affairs Darren Chester said despite the current coronavirus restrictions in Melbourne, work had continued on outfitting the new office space so veterans and their families would have improved access to support when face-to-face counselling resumes. Open Arms is Australia's leading provider of high quality mental health assessment and clinical counselling services for Australian veterans and their families.
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ACT: Territory Opposition to deliver better support for mental healthcare patients and staff
Patients requiring mental healthcare in Canberra have suffered from critical delays to treatment, sometimes waiting on average 16.2 hours to be admitted into dedicated mental healthcare. The growing pressure in the ACT's mental health system has exacerbated existing pressures in Canberra's emergency departments. There are mounting concerns that patients will fall through the cracks as the mental health system struggles to cope, said ACT Leader of the Opposition Alistair Coe.
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Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System
None this edition.
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Pharmaceuticals
25 September
World Pharmacists Day 2020: $25 million investment to improve the safe use of medicines through pharmacy
The Government will invest $25 million through the landmark Medical Research Future Fund for research to improve the safe use of medicines and medicines intervention by pharmacists, said Minister for Health Greg Hunt. The new Quality, Safety and Effectiveness of Medicine Use and Medicine Intervention by Pharmacists MRFF Grant Opportunity will support the Quality Use of Medicine and Medicine Safety National Health Priority, and is part of the Government's significant ongoing investments aimed at improving access to medicines and the safe use of medicines in the community.
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23 September
Changes to PBS for palliative care opioids restrictions a major relief
Palliative Care Australia has welcomed the changes made by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory
Committee (PBAC) to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), which will optimise appropriate access to analgesic opioid medications for palliative care patients. These changes, effective 1 October 2020, will help avoid an unnecessary burden to palliative care health practitioners and reduce disruptions in the pain management for suffering palliative care patients.
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22 September
Invitation to comment on the commercial supply of a genetically modified cholera vaccine, Vaxchora
Australia's gene technology regulatory system is designed to protect the health and safety of people and the environment by identifying risks posed by, or as a result of, gene technology and managing those risks. The Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) is assessing licence application DIR 174 from Biocelect Pty Ltd (Biocelect) for commercial supply of a genetically modified (GM) cholera vaccine, Vaxchora. This vaccine will be available for adults and children aged 2 years or older who would be travelling overseas to places where they could be infected with cholera.
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20 September
NSW: Mr Rama Prasad ('Ayurveda Doctor Rama Prasad') - Interim Prohibition Order
The NSW Health Care Complaints Commission is currently investigating Mr Rama Prasad in relation to his prescribing of the Ayurvedic Medication 'Manasamithra Vatika' (Manasamitram Pills) to both children and adults and about his claims that his treatments can reverse several aspects of autism in children. The Ayurvedic Medication 'Manasmithra Vatika' (Manasamitram Pills) was found to contain elevated levels of lead and other heavy metals. One case with mildly elevated blood level was notified to the South Eastern Sydney Public Health Unit after consuming this product.
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Research
24 September
Governments must commit to ending RHD
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) called on all levels of government to commit to a new strategy to rid Australia of the scourge of rheumatic heart disease by 2031. Once a disease of over-crowded and unsanitary inner-city slums, RHD has long been consigned to the history books for most Australians. However, it continues to devastate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. 'As a founding member of the END RHD Coalition, the AMA welcomes the launch of the RHD Endgame Strategy,' AMA President, Dr Omar Khorshid, said. 'RHD starts as a sore throat, or a skin infection known as 'school sores', yet every year it kills people and devastates lives.'
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Metformin treatment linked to slowed cognitive decline
Metformin is the first-line treatment for most cases of type 2 diabetes and one of the most commonly prescribed medications worldwide, with millions of individuals using it to optimise their blood glucose levels. A new research study, conducted over six years in the Sydney Memory and Ageing Study in 1037 Australians (aged 70 to 90 years old at baseline), has revealed an additional effect: individuals with type 2 diabetes who used metformin experienced slower cognitive decline with lower dementia rates than those who did not use the medication, said the Garvan Institute of Medical Research.
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Endgame for deadly heart disease will save hundreds of lives
A deadly yet entirely preventable heart disease taking the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is finally on the verge of elimination thanks to new research. The RHD Endgame Strategy: the blueprint to eliminate rheumatic heart disease in Australia by 2031, has been five years in the making and pairs research by leading infectious diseases specialists with the knowledge and experience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders across the country. Produced by the End Rheumatic Heart Disease Centre of Research Excellence, based at Perth's Telethon Kids Institute, with the backing of 25 leading health and research organisations.
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23 September
Australia now eligible to purchase COVID-19 vaccine doses through COVAX
The COVAX facility provides access to a large portfolio of COVID-19 vaccine candidates and manufacturers across the world. Under the agreement, Australia will commit an initial $123.2 million to be part of the purchasing mechanism of the facility, meaning Australia can receive offers to purchase vaccines when they become available. This investment is in addition to the agreements with Oxford University/AstraZeneca and University of Queensland/CSL for supply of vaccines, opening up additional supply options for Australia, said Minister for Health Greg Hunt and Minister for Foreign Marise Payne.
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Thorough documenting of COVID-19 patient screening in Australian hospitals is urgently needed
New Australian research on COVID-19 screening of hospital patients during the first wave of the pandemic found that the documentation of patient screening procedures before surgery could be improved. The COVID Screen Audit study has been published in Australian Health Review, the journal of the Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association (AHHA). Research team leader Professor David Story (University of Melbourne) said the study analysed the admission records of 2,197 patients who underwent elective and non-elective surgery at two major Melbourne hospitals between 1 April and 10 May 2020.
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22 September
New Early Scientific Advice service to support medicine registrations
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has launched a new initiative - the Early Scientific Advice service - that enables applicants to request scientific advice on specific data before they apply to register a medicine. To register a medicine for supply in Australia, applicants must demonstrate that the medicine meets legal standards for safety, quality and efficacy. Access to the Early Scientific Advice service will help companies to prepare scientifically sound data to support their registration application.
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18 September
Improving kidney health for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
Associate Professor Jaqui Hughes from the Menzies School of Health Research received the 2019 NHMRC Clinical Trials and Cohort Studies Award at the National Medical Research Council's (NMRC's) Research Excellence Awards ceremony in March 2020. Kidney disease is a significant health priority among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. The cohort study being led by A/Professor Hughes will describe the long-term changes in kidney function over 10 years. This will provide critical data to inform regional and national policy on identification and care of people with kidney disease.
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Rural, Regional and Remote Health
22 September
Outreach fund extension brings GPs and health services to communities
Rural and remote patients will have access to a wider range of health services in their community following an announcement by the Federal Government, said Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan. Minister for Regional Heath Mark Coulton said regional, rural, and remote communities throughout Australia will benefit from the $115 million extension to the Rural Health Outreach Fund (RHOF). 'This fund brings doctors and health professionals to patients, rather than the other way around, allowing many thousands of people to receive their health care closer to home,' Minister Coulton said.
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WA: Kununurra closer to $6 million health and hospitality training centre
WA Premier Mark McGowan announced a local Kununurra architectural firm has been appointed to design a new $6 million health and hospitality trade training centre at the Kununurra campus of North Regional TAFE (NR TAFE). The state-of-the-art facility, part of the $5.5 billion WA Recovery Plan, will include a simulated training space divided into an in-home care suite and a small nursing ward. This will enable NR TAFE to deliver National Disability Insurance Scheme training in Kununurra, to meet demand for aged and disability care in the region.
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Women's Health
22 September
VIC: Frankston Hospital to deliver better care and local jobs
The Victorian Government is getting on with the massive $562 million expansion of the Frankston Hospital - to provide world-class healthcare for local families and create hundreds of jobs in Melbourne's south-east. Around 3,000 babies a year are born at Frankston Hospital. With more young families moving to Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula, the redevelopment will also deliver expanded women's and children's services. This includes new obstetrics, maternity and paediatric wards and a women's clinic and a special care nursery, said the Victorian Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos, Victorian Member for Frankston Paul Edbrooke and Victorian Member for Carrum Sonya Kilkenny.
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21 September
ACT: Liberals to deliver dedicated residential care home for new mothers
Mothers experiencing severe mental health challenges before and after birth will be supported through a new dedicated residential care home under a Canberra Liberals Government. The residential care home will provide holistic care to Canberra women experiencing severe anxiety, depression and, in more extreme circumstances, mania and psychosis which can occur soon after giving birth. Presently women with postnatal depression have to travel interstate to receive the care they need, which is both costly and disruptive for the family, said ACT Leader of the Opposition Alistair Coe.
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19 September
New projections for Australia's 10 year fertility rate
Australia's fertility rate will temporarily dip in 2021 following the COVID-19 pandemic before rising again in the mid-2020's and settling to a long-term average by 2030, said Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge. The first research report commissioned by the Government's Centre for Population provides a road map for Australia's population composition in the post- COVID-19 years. A Projection of Australia's Future Fertility Rate forecasts the fertility rate will drop to 1.59 babies per woman in 2021 compared with 1.70 babies per woman in 2018 and then transition to a long-term average of 1.62 in 2030.
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Transcripts
Minister for Health Greg Hunt
23 SEP: Transcript of Interview with Samantha Armytage, Sunrise
Subjects: Coronavirus, COVAX, Vaccine
Chief Nursing & Midwifery Officer
23 SEP: Transcript of CNMO, Professor Alison McMillan's Press Conference
Subjects: COVID-19, Testing, VIC, NSW, Vaccine, Aged care outbreak, State borders, QLD-ACT border, Mental health, Domestic air travel
COVID-19 Hotel Quarantine Inquiry
23 SEP 2020: Transcript of Proceedings - Melbourne - Day 22
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Australian Medical Association (AMA)
22 SEP: Transcript of President, Omar Khorshid's Interview with Gareth Parker, 6PR, Mornings
Subjects: AMA Informed Financial Consent Guide, Health insurance, Medical service costs
Deputy Chief Medical Officer
21 SEP: Transcript of Deputy CMO, Dr Nick Coatsworth's Press Conference
Subjects: COVID-19, Health restrictions, Quarantine, VIC outbreak, Curfew, Vaccine research funding, School holidays, Domestic travel, PPE
COVID-19 Hotel Quarantine Inquiry
18 SEP 2020: Transcript of Proceedings - Melbourne - Day 20
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COVID-19 Hotel Quarantine Inquiry
17 SEP 2020: Transcript of Proceedings - Melbourne - Day 19
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Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality & Safety
21 SEP 2020: Transcript of Proceedings - Sydney - Day 96
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Deputy Chief Medical Officer
21 SEP: Transcript of Deputy CMO, Dr Nick Coatsworth's Press Conference
Subjects: COVID-19, Health restrictions, Quarantine, VIC outbreak, Curfew, Vaccine research funding, School holidays, Domestic travel, PPE
Shadow Minister for Education and Training Tanya Plibersek
21 SEP: Transcript of Doorstop Interview, Sydney
Subjects: Apprenticeship figures, Skills, Jobs, Renewable energy, Aged Care crisis, Royal Commission, Unions, JobSeeker rates, COVID-19, Technology road-map, Energy, Gas, Renewable energy
Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality & Safety
18 SEP: Transcript of Proceedings - Sydney - Day 95
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Reports
Australian Public Assessment Report for Adalimumab - Proprietary Product Name: Idacio
Department of Health, Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)
Idacio is indicated for reducing signs and symptoms, as well as inhibiting the progression of structural damage in adult patients with moderate to severely active rheumatoid arthritis. This includes the treatment of patients with recently diagnosed moderate to severely active disease who have not received methotrexate.
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Notice of an interim decision to amend the current Poisons Standard
Therapeutic Goods Administration
Pursuant to regulation 42ZCZN of the Regulations, a delegate of the Secretary has, in relation to the proposed amendments, made an interim decision to amend the current Poisons Standard in relation to nicotine. The Advisory Committee on Medicines and Chemicals Scheduling in joint session recommended moving nicotine for human use to Schedule 4, while retaining the current exemptions for tobacco and certain smoking cessation products. The Committee also recommended deleting the Schedule 6 entry and creating an Appendix D listing for nicotine in the current Poisons Standard.
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Deaths, Australia - Statistics about deaths and mortality rates for Australia, states and territories, and sub-state regions
Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS)
Key statistics:
- There were 169,301 registered deaths in 2019, an increase of 10,808 since 2018
- The standardised death rate increased to 5.3 deaths, from 5.1 in 2018
- Infant deaths increased by 21 deaths to 1,009
Deaths registered:
- There were 169,301 deaths registered in 2019, an increase of 10,808 from 2018 (158,493)
- There were more male deaths (88,346) than female deaths (80,955), resulting in a sex ratio of 109.1 male deaths for every 100 female deaths.
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Antimicrobial Medicines Dispensing from 2013-14 to 2017-18
Australian Commission on Safety & Quality in Health Care
This technical note accompanies the report: Antimicrobial medicines dispensing 2013-14 to 2017-18 and builds on the third Atlas reporting of antimicrobial medicines dispensing rates. Information regarding data from 2013-14 to 2016-17 is available in the Technical Supplement for the Third Australian Atlas of Healthcare Variation. This report presents statistics on the number of PBS/RPBS prescriptions dispensed for three commonly dispensed medicines: antimicrobials, amoxicillin and amoxicillin-clavulanate for people of all ages, between 2013-14 and 2017-18.
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Diagnostic error occurs in one in seven clinical encounters
Medical Journal of Australia
Professor Ian Scott, Director of Internal Medicine and Clinical Epidemiology at Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane and the University of Queensland, and Associate Professor Carmel Crock, Director of Emergency Department at the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, wrote that in Australia, an estimated 140 000 cases of diagnostic error occur each year, with 21 000 cases of serious harm and 2000-4000 deaths. Almost one in two malpractice claims against general practitioners involves diagnostic error.
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The 2019-20 bushfires - The smoke-related health effect - Volume 213, No 6
Medical Journal of Australia (MJA)
The impact of environmental pollutants from diverse sources on health and well- being is widely recognised. However, much remains unknown, including the relative contributions of specific air pollutants, their size effects, the periods of maximum vulnerability, and the longer term effects of acute and prolonged exposure, particularly in children. The expected increases in the number and intensity of bushfires, as seen in Australia during the summer of 2019-20, require that the effects of such extreme events on public health be explored.
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Dementia & Discrimination
Dementia Australia
Dementia affects close to half a million Australians. That number is set to double in the next 25 years. More than 5,000 Australians completed a survey in September 2019 to help better understand discrimination for people living with dementia and what it would take to end discrimination. The findings reveal just how big an issue discrimination is and the impacts it has for people living with dementia, their families and carers. However, a little support makes a lot of difference.
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WA: Chief Health Officer Approval to Request COVID-19 Testing on Persons Who Are Presenting to be Tested Under the Presentation for Testing Directions (No.5)
WA Department of Premier & Cabinet
On 16 September 2020 pursuant to sections 67 and 72A of the EM Act, the PRESENTATION FOR TESTING DIRECTIONS (NO 5) ('Presentation Directions No.5') were issued, setting out, amongst other things, that a person to which the Presentation Directions No.5 apply must present to a COVID Clinic in accordance with the Presentation Directions No.5.
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WA: Visitors to Residential Aged Care Facilities Directions (No 4)
WA Department of Premier & Cabinet
On 23 March 2020, the Minister for Health declared a public health state of emergency with effect from 1.30 p.m. on 23 March 2020 in respect of COVID-19 pursuant to section 167 of the Public Health Act 2016 (WA). The purpose of these directions is to prevent the introduction and limit the spread of COVID-19 in residential aged care facilities. These directions come into effect at 11.59 p.m. on 18 September 2020 The Visitors to Residential Aged Care Facilities Directions (No 3) that I made on 8 July 2020 (revoked directions) are revoked.
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WA: Public Health Act 2016 - Section 170 - Extension of Declaration (No.2) of Public Health State of Emergency
WA, Department of Premier & Cabinet
Pursuant to section 170 of the Public Health Act 2016 (WA) Roger Cook, the Minister for Health, extends the public health state of emergency declaration, which came into effect on 23 March 2020 at 13:30 hours. The duration of the public health state of emergency declaration is extended for a period of 14 days (the extension).
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Hansards
New South Wales
24 SEP 2020: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Private Members' Statements - Randwick Children's Hospital Cardiology Services
24 SEP 2020: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Community Recognition Statements - Campaign for PPE Equipment for St George Hospital
24 SEP 2020: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Community Recognition Statements - Westmead Hospital
24 SEP 2020: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Community Recognition Statements - Swansea Electorate Health Workers
24 SEP 2020: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice: Take Note - COVID-19 & Women's Mental Health
24 SEP 2020: NSW COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - COVID-19 & Health System
South Australia
23 SEP 2020: SA COUNCIL HANSARD: Bills - Work Health & Safety (Industrial Manslaughter) Amendment Bill 2020 - First Reading, Second Reading, Debate Adjourned
22 SEP 2020: SA ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Answers to Questions - Royal Adelaide Hospital, Ward 9F
22 SEP 2020: SA COUNCIL HANSARD: Question Time - Women's and Children's Hospital
Tasmania
15 SEP 2020: TAS COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions - COVID-19 - Public Health Emergency Declaration
15 SEP 2020: TAS COUNCIL HANSARD: Special Interest Matters - Fragile X Syndrome
15 SEP 2020: TAS COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions - North West Regional Hospital - Work Levels and Staffing
15 SEP 2020: TAS ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Adjournment - Healthcare in Regional Areas - Southern Beaches Neighbourhood Watch
15 SEP 2020: TAS ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions - Launceston General Hospital - COVID-19-Safe Conditions
27 AUG 2020: TAS ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions - Mersey Community Hospital - Emergency Department Contact Procedure
27 AUG 2020: TAS ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Adjournment - Mersey Community Hospital Emergency Department - Patient's Experience
25 AUG 2020: TAS ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions - Proposed Hospital Development in New Town - Actions of Coordinator-General
25 AUG 2020: TAS ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions - Mersey Community Hospital - Effect of Reduced Hours on Patients
25 AUG 2020: TAS ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Questions - COVID-19 - Aged Care Facilities in Tasmania
27 AUG 2020: TAS COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions - Out-of-Home Care - Extended Care Payments
26 AUG 2020: TAS COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions - COVID-19 - Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeries
25 AUG 2020: TAS COUNCIL HANSARD: Special Interest Matters - Disability Voices Tasmania
25 AUG 2020: TAS COUNCIL HANSARD: Special Interest Matters - End-of-Life Choices (Voluntary Assisted Dying) Bill 2020
Western Australia
23 SEP 2020: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions Without Notice - Hospitals - Over-Census Beds
23 SEP 2020: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Questions on Notice - Police - Mental Health Co-Response Service
23 SEP 2020: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Statement - Dementia Action Week
23 SEP 2020: WA COUNCIL HANSARD: Question without Notice 903 - Answer Advice - Medical Resources - Shark Bay
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Court Cases
None this edition.
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New Regulations
Federal
National Health (COVID-19 Supply of Pharmaceutical Benefits) Special Arrangement Amendment (Extension & Record Forms) Instrument 2020
Legislative Instrument - F2020L01212
The National Health (COVID-19 Supply of Pharmaceutical Benefits) Special Arrangement Amendment (Extension and Record Forms) Instrument 2020 (the Amendment Instrument) amends the National Health (COVID-19 Supply of Pharmaceutical Benefits) Special Arrangement 2020 (the Arrangement). This instrument amends the Arrangement by:
- extending the repeal date of this instrument from 30 September to 31 March 2021 (section 4);
- allowing waiver of the requirement for a signature for a pharmaceutical benefits prescription record, where an approved supplier' signature is normally required.
Explanatory Statement
National Health (Commonwealth Price - Pharmaceutical benefits supplied by private hospitals) Determination 2020
Legislative Instrument - F2020L01208
The National Health (Commonwealth Price - Pharmaceutical benefits supplied by private hospitals) Determination 2020 (the new determination) replaces and repeals the National Health (Pharmaceutical benefits supplied by private hospitals) Determination 2010 (21/09/2010) (the old determination), which is due to sunset on 1 October 2020 in accordance with subsection 50(2) of the Legislation Act 2003. The provisions in the new determination retain the content of the old determination, with minor redrafting to ensure those provisions are structured in a clear and logical manner, and that references to provisions in other instruments are current.
Explanatory Statement
Therapeutic Goods (Declared Goods) Amendment (Sports Supplements) Order 2020
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2020L01204
The Amendment Order does not declare all sports supplements to be therapeutic goods when used, advertised, or presented for supply for therapeutic use, or in a way that is likely to be taken to be for therapeutic use. Rather, the Amendment Order is concerned with declaring a specific class of sports supplements to be therapeutic goods ('the relevant sports supplements'), being those sports supplements that are supplied in the dosage form of a tablet, capsule or pill (other than those goods containing glucose only).
Explanatory Statement
Health Insurance Legislation Amendment (Bulk-billing Incentive (No. 2)) Regulations 2020
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2020L01203
The purpose of the Health Insurance Legislation Amendment (Bulk-billing Incentive (No. 2)) Regulations 2020 is to remove the temporary increase that was applied to the schedule fees for the bulk-billing incentive items and return the schedule fees to their normal rate from 1 October 2020. This includes the application of indexation of 1.5 per cent that was applied to most MBS items on 1 July 2020. This change is part of the Government's commitment to protect all Australians from the coronavirus (COVID-19). It will assist primary care and balance patient access and ongoing vigilance in relation to COVID-19 infection.
Explanatory Statement
Private Health Insurance (Complaints Levy) Rules 2020
Legislative Instrument - F2020L01195
The Private Health Insurance (Complaints Levy) Rules 2020 (the Rules) repeal and replace the Private Health Insurance (Complaints Levy) Rules 2019 (the Previous Rules) to alter the rate of complaints levy payable. The Rules also specify the complaints levy days and the census day for the purposes of the Act. The purpose of the complaints levy is to finance the administrative costs of the Private Health Insurance Ombudsman (PHIO). The functions of PHIO are set out at section 20D of the Ombudsman Act 1976. Functions of PHIO include dealing with complaints, conducting investigations, publishing and reporting information, and making recommendations. The rate of complaints levy is based on the expected administrative costs of the PHIO for the financial year. A new numerator, equal to the PHIO budget for the current financial year, is inputted into the formulas for calculating the complaints levy rates in the Rules each year unless the PHIO budget is the same as the previous financial year.
Explanatory Statement
Health Insurance Legislation Amendment (Extend Cessation Date of Temporary COVID-19 Items) Determination 2020
Legislative Instrument - F2020L01190
Since 13 March 2020, the Australian Government has been providing temporary access to Medicare benefits for certain medical services to protect Australians during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. This includes providing Medicare benefits for temporary remote service options to enable patients to access telehealth and phone consultation services. These services can be provided by general practitioners (GPs), other doctors in general practice, specialists, consultant physicians, nurse practitioners and allied health professionals.
Explanatory Statement
Aged Care (Subsidy, Fees and Payments) Amendment (September Indexation) Determination 2020
Legislative Instrument - F2020L01188
The purpose of the Aged Care (Subsidy, Fees and Payments) Amendment (September Indexation) Determination 2020 (the Amending Determination) is to increasing the income thresholds in home care in line with increases to the age pension since March 2020. The Amending Determination applies only in respect of care recipients who are not continuing care recipients.
Explanatory Statement
Aged Care (Transitional Provisions) Amendment (September Indexation) Principles 2020
Legislative Instrument - F2020L01187
The purpose of the Aged Care (Transitional Provisions) Amendment (September Indexation) Principles 2020 (the Amending Principles) is to amend the Transitional Provisions Principles to update the specified amount of maximum accommodation charge for a post 2008-reform resident as a result of routine indexation. The Amending Principles are a legislative instrument for the purposes of the Legislation Act 2003.
Explanatory Statement
Aged Care Legislation Amendment (Subsidies - COVID-19 Support Supplement & Workforce Continuity Funding Measures No. 2) Instrument 2020
Legislative Instrument - F2020L01183
The Aged Care Legislation Amendment (Subsidies-COVID-19 Support Supplement and Workforce Continuity Funding Measures No. 2) Instrument 2020 (the Amending Instrument) amends the Aged Care (Subsidy, Fees and Payments) Determination 2014; the Aged Care (Transitional Provisions) Principles 2014; the Aged Care (Transitional Provisions) (Subsidy and Other Measures) Determination 2014; and the Subsidy Principles 2014 (the Subsidy Principles). The Act and the TP Act provide that an amount of residential care subsidy may include the amount of any relevant 'other supplements' (section 44-2 of the Act).
Explanatory Statement
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Proclamations
None this edition.
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Gazette Notices
None this edition.
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Consolidated Legislation
Health Insurance (Section 3C General Medical Services - COVID-19 Telehealth and Telephone Attendances Determination 2020
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2020C00855
Determinations/Health as amended, taking into account amendments up to Health Insurance (Section 3C General Medical Services - COVID-19 Telehealth and Telephone GP Attendances) Amendment (Patient's Usual Medical Practitioner) Determination 2020.
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Health Insurance (Section 3C Co-Dependent Pathology Services) Determination 2018
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2020C00851
Determinations/Health as amended, taking into account amendments up to Health Insurance (Section 3C Co-Dependent Pathology Services) Amendment Determination (No. 6) 2020.
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Health Insurance (Section 3C General Medical Services - COVID-19 Telehealth and Telephone Attendances) Determination 2020
Legislative Instrument Compilation - F2020C00848
Determinations/Health as amended, taking into account amendments up to Health Insurance Legislation Amendment (Indexation) Determination 2020.
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New Bills
New South Wales
Health Legislation (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2020 - LA Notice of Motion 22/9, LA intro 23/9, LA 2R 23/9
South Australia
Health Care (Safe Access) Amendment Bill 2020 - LA 2R 23/9, LA passed with amendment 23/9, LC intro 23/9
Local Government (Public Health Emergency) (Rate Relief) Amendment Bill 2020 - LA 2R 23/9
Work Health and Safety (Industrial Manslaughter) Amendment Bill 2020 - LC intro 23/9, LC 2R 23/9
Western Australia
Work Health and Safety Bill 2019 - LC in committee 22/9, LC in committee 23/9
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New Acts
None this edition.
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