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)

14 July

Enhancing Fiji's maritime domain awareness
Fijian Prime Minister Josaia V. Bainimarama and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese have launched a major infrastructure project to enhance Fiji's maritime capabilities. Building on the long-standing Vuvale Partnership, Fiji and Australia will construct the new Maritime Essential Services Centre (MESC) in Lami, Fiji. The MESC will house the Republic of Fiji Navy Headquarters, Suva Radio Coastal Station, Fiji Maritime Surveillance Coordination Centre, and Fiji Hydrographic Office. The project is valued at $83 million AUD (approx $124 million FJD) and will generate significant work for Fijian construction companies and local workers to support Fiji's COVID-19 recovery.
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Statement from Australian Government Chief Medical Officer, about the standard of care on COVID-19 oral antiviral treatments in residential aged care facilities
As Australia experiences another rise in transmission of COVID-19, it is as important as ever to protect the most vulnerable senior Australians, said Professor Paul Kelly on behalf of the Department of Health. Vaccines are proven to provide the best protection against COVID-19, however there are some individuals who are at higher risk for severe disease if they become infected with COVID-19. The oral antiviral treatments, molnupiravir (Lagevrio) and nirmatrelvir and ritonavir (Paxlovid) can be used by adult patients in high risk groups who do not require initiation of oxygen due to COVID-19.
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Extended fourth dose vaccination and antiviral treatments
Eligible people aged 16 years or older with disability, significant or complex health needs, or multiple comorbidities which increase the risk of a poor outcome continue to be strongly encouraged to take up their next or fourth COVID vaccination dose to reduce the risk of waning protection and COVID illness. It is critical that people with disabilities, many of whom are medically vulnerable to COVID- 19, have access to vaccinations. The Department of Health have also developed guidance for providers in the situation when a substitute decision maker does not give consent for an adult with disability to have a vaccination, said the National Disability Services (NDS).
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TAS: Commonwealth COVID assistance must be maintained
'With COVID cases and hospitalisations continuing to increase across the country due to the more transmissible BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants, it is vital that both State and Federal Governments continue to offer financial support for testing and isolation,' said Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff. 'Today I have written to the Prime Minister outlining the Tasmanian Government's strong concerns about the recent decision to end the Federal Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment, COVID-19 Home Medicines Service and the provision of Rapid Antigen Testing to concession card holders.'
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13 July

Statement on the cessation of pandemic leave and free RATs
'The Government's decision to retain the former government's budget cut to free RATs for concession card holders on 31 July is at odds with Prime Minister Albanese's election night promise to 'leave no one behind,'', said the Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS). 'People on low incomes are already going to extreme measures to make ends meet, pay rising energy bills, and keep a roof over their head amid an exceptionally cold winter. As Australia faces another COVID wave, ACOSS urges this Government to support people on the lowest incomes who are most exposed to the effects of the pandemic.'
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Support us to support you to stay well this Winter
The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) is urging members of the public to protect themselves, their family and friends as a new wave of COVID infections sweeps across the country - and support the nurses, midwives and care workers who have supported us all throughout the pandemic. The ANMF said it is imperative Australians all do 'all that they can' to ensure that nurses, midwives and care workers in health and aged care are protected and supported, as health services are placed under enormous strain by growing COVID cases, coupled with the onset of the 'flu season and other common upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs).
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RATs decision puts vulnerable at risk
The decision to end the concessional access program for Rapid Antigen Tests is disappointing and confusing at a time when testing and identifying for COVID-19 is essential to help manage the current wave of infections, the Pharmacy Guild of Australia said. Acting National President of the Guild, Nick Panayiaris, said the decision to wind the scheme up at the end of the month flies in the face of the growing number of cases of COVID-19 being reported across Australia. 'The Government has been proactive in increasing the eligibility for booster shots as well as making antiviral medicines more accessible,' Mr Panayiaris said.
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Pharmacists delivering record COVID-19 vaccinations
Australian pharmacists are delivering following surging demand for COVID-19 vaccinations, with figures released by the Department of Health show that pharmacists have delivered more than 52,000 COVID-19 vaccinations in the last day and over 7.7 million since the start of the rollout. Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) National President Dr Fei Sim said these vaccination numbers highlight the accessibility of community pharmacists, as well as the trust the public has in Australian pharmacists.
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COVID weary, but pressing on... Book your booster now
Rural doctors are continuing to roll out COVID booster doses right across the country to reduce the rate of hospitalisation of COVID patients in rural communities. Dr Megan Belot, President of the Rural Doctors Association of Australia (RDAA), said that for rural patients staying up to date with booster shots is particularly important. 'Our health services in rural communities are already under pressure,' Dr Belot said. 'Our Rural Generalist doctors care for patients in both the general practice and the hospital, and locum services remain extremely hard to come by Australia-wide.'
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Slams Federal Government for cutting COVID support
Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry has slammed the Federal Government for ending the Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment and ending free rapid antigen tests (RAT) for concession card holders. 'This comes after Federal Minister for Health Mark Butler confirmed these measures would be ending by the end of July,' said Ms Landry. 'The decision is short-sighted and puts vulnerable people in Capricornia at risk. The pattern of behaviour in the Government's health response to COVID is deeply concerning. The Government must explain its decision to end the Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment and cut free RATs to concession card holders.'
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Government cuts free Rapid Antigen Tests for concession card holders
'The Government's decision to end access to free Rapid Antigen Tests for concession card holders without detailing the health advice requires explanation,' said Senator for South Australia Anne Ruston. 'To end this program, at a time when we are seeing a massive increase in the number of COVID cases and cost of living pressures are seriously impacting Australians, appears premature. The Government are defying advice from key stakeholders and experts including the AMA, RACGP and the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia.'
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Wrong time to end RAT scheme
The Australian Greens are calling on the Government to extend the RAT subsidies for concession card holders to protect vulnerable communities amid the latest surge in COVID cases. Australians Greens social services spokesperson, Senator Janet Rice said: 'Between the rise in COVID cases and the cost of living crisis, this is the worst possible time for the government to end RAT subsidies for Australians on the lowest incomes. As much as we'd all like it to be, the pandemic isn't over. The government must extend this scheme beyond July to keep people safe.'
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NSW: Sporting stars unite to tackle COVID-19 and flu this season
With the 2022 season ramping up, some of Australia's most well-known athletes are calling on fans to put their support behind the little things they can do to help beat the flu and COVID-19 this winter. Paul Gallen, Isaac Heeney, Ruan Sims, Wade Graham, Poppy Olsen and Mitchell Moses are among a lineup of top athletes who have joined forces with the NSW Government as part of the NSW Department of Customer Service's Little Things campaign to encourage everyone to support their club and protect each other by keeping up with COVID safe behaviours.
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NT: COVID-19 re-infection period reduced to four weeks in NT
NT Health has revised the COVID-19 reinfection period from 12 weeks down to four weeks following advice from the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC). The reduced reinfection period is due to the latest BA4 and BA5 variants driving a rise in COVID- 19 infection and reinfection in the Territory. Territorians are now required to re-test for COVID-19 if they experience symptoms 28 days after their COVID-19 infection. Positive results will be reported and managed as new cases. In line with the national approach, passengers travelling on outbound international flights from the Territory are no longer required to wear a mask while on the plane.
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12 July

We must ensure all people can access rapid antigen tests
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has warned that making rapid antigen tests (RATs) widely available for vulnerable groups on low incomes is essential in tackling COVID-19 across Australia. It comes following the Government announcing that the COVID-19 Rapid Test Concessional Access Program providing 10 free rapid antigen tests every three months for concession card holders will not be extended beyond July 2022. RACGP President Adj. Professor Karen Price said the move would put vulnerable people at greater risk and make the task of limiting community transmission of COVID-19 potentially more challenging.
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End of free RAT program puts vulnerable people at risk
The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) National President Dr Fei Sim is critical of the Federal Government's announcement that the COVID-19 Rapid Test Concessional Access Program would not be extended beyond July 2022. Dr Sim said that this move not only puts vulnerable Australians at risk, but also sends the wrong message to the public. 'PSA is very concerned about the Federal Government's plan to cease concessional access to Rapid Antigen Tests (RAT) at the end of the month. It sends the wrong message to the public,' she said.
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NSW: COVID-19 reinfection period reduced to four weeks
NSW Health has revised the COVID-19 reinfection period from 12 weeks down to four weeks. People who have previously had COVID-19 will be required to test for COVID-19 after 28 days since their isolation ended if experiencing symptoms and follow the relevant health advice if they test positive. People who test positive again will be reported and managed as new cases. NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said the reduced reinfection period, which follows the advice from the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee, is due to the latest subvariants of Omicron circulating in the community.
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TAS: Coronavirus update
'Tasmania has recorded 1,812 new cases overnight,' announced Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff. 'The total number of active cases currently stands at 9,833 and we now have more than 195,000 Tasmanians who have recovered from COVID-19. There are currently 29 people in hospital being treated specifically for COVID. Public Health officials have previously explained that fluctuations in daily case numbers are a part of living with COVID and it remains our collective responsibility to look out for one another by continuing to follow COVID-safe behaviours. Sadly, I can confirm a female in her 90s has passed away in the State's South. I extend my sincere condolences to her families, friends, and loved ones.'
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WA: COVID-19 update
WA Health is reporting a total of 6,000 new cases to 6pm July 12th. There are currently 34,039 active cases in Western Australia. To 6pm July 12th, there were 297 people with COVID-19 in hospital, 6 in ICU. Sadly, this report includes three new deaths, dating back to 17 June, which were reported to WA Health: a man in his 90s and two men in their 80s. Of the 6,000 cases, 1,556 were confirmed via PCR test, the remaining 4,444 were self- reported positive rapid antigen tests. A total of 8,359 PCR tests were conducted at either state-run or private pathology clinics.
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11 July

Covid-19 fourth dose available
Australians over 30 will be offered a fourth dose of Covid vaccine, as health authorities battle a winter wave of Omicron cases. An additional 7.4 million people can receive a winter booster from Monday, 11 July, as Omicron infections rise. Chair of Catholic Social Services Australia, Francis Sullivan, said the threat posed by Omicron, particularly to the elderly and disadvantaged, has never been more real. 'We have seen over the past two years that it has been the old and infirmed, indigenous communities and the disadvantaged that have been most at risk from Covid 19,' he said.
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RACGP welcomes COVID-19 antivirals expansion
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has welcomed the expansion of COVID- 19 antiviral treatment access. It follows federal Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler announcing that eligibility for lifesaving COVID-19 antiviral treatments will be widened. Access will be expanded under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme to the following patients who test positive to COVID-19:
- all those aged over 70
- people aged over 50 with two or more risk factors for severe disease
- Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people aged over 30 with two or more risk factors for severe disease
- immunocompromised people over 18 may also be eligible.
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ACT: COVID-19 cases projected to increase in coming weeks
ACT Chief Health Officer Dr Kerryn Coleman from ACT Health is calling on Canberrans to step up their COVID Smart behaviours to help minimise the impact of increasing case numbers on the community. 'COVID-19 cases are expected to increase in coming weeks and Canberrans should take steps to help reduce the spread and lessen the impact of COVID-19,' Dr Coleman said. Being up to date with your vaccinations, staying home and getting tested if you have symptoms, and being prepared for a possible COVID-19 infection are all steps you can take to help reduce the impact of this new wave of COVID-19.
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WA: COVID-19 Reinfection update
The WA Department of Health has announced that Western Australia is adopting new national health advice on COVID-19 reinfection - updating the State's guidelines to show reinfection can occur from four weeks after recovering from the virus. COVID-19 reinfection cases were previously defined as a case that occurs more than 12 weeks after an initial infection. The updated advice, from the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee(AHPPC), follows the detection of an increasing number of BA.4 and BA.5 COVID-19 Omicron variants in the WA community. WA Chief Health Officer Andy Robertson said an increase in these subvariants meant reinfections were being reported between four and 12 weeks after the initial Omicron infection.
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10 July

Millions of Australians to gain access to COVID treatments
All Australians aged over 70 who test positive to COVID will be able to access antivirals on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), said Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler. Access will also be expanded to people aged over 50 with two or more risk factors for severe disease, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people aged over 30 with two or more risk factors for severe disease. Immunocompromised people over 18 may also be eligible. COVID-19 can be very serious for adults in high-risk groups, even when they are fully vaccinated.
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TAS: Coronavirus update
'Overnight, Tasmania has recorded 1355 new cases with 201,712 people recovered and released from isolation since December 2021,' said Tasmanian Minister for Health Jeremy Rockliff. 'The total number of active cases currently stands at 9506 with 26 patients being in hospital specifically for COVID-19, four patients being treated in ICU and two on ventilators. Sadly, I can confirm that a man in his 80s passed away in the State's south. I extend my sincere condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of this man who has sadly passed away. Getting a booster when you are due continues to be the best defence against COVID-19, with vaccination available at 100+ pharmacies, 100+ GPs and state-run clinics.'
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9 July

WA: COVID-19 update
WA Health is reporting a total of 5,538 new cases. There are currently 33,139 active cases in Western Australia. There were 252 people with COVID-19 in hospital, 8 in ICU. The report includes 11 new deaths, dating back to 30 May, which were reported to WA Health: five women and a man in their 90s, two men and a woman in their 80s, a man in his 70s and a man in his 50s.
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8 July

AHPPC Statement on COVID-19 winter update and ongoing health protection measures to support the community
'This winter, we are experiencing significant community transmission of both COVID-19 and influenza, which is placing real stress on our community and health system,' said the Department of Health & Aged Care. 'We are now beginning to see a new wave of COVID-19 infections, driven by the BA.4 and BA.5 Omicron subvariants. We expect that this wave will lead to a substantial increase in infections, hospitalisations and sadly, deaths, at a time when our communities and health systems are already under strain.'
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ACT: Ongoing health protection measures
In line with recommendations released by the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (8 July 2022), the ACT will reduce the reinfection period for people who have had COVID-19 from 12 weeks to 28 days. From Tuesday 12 July, a person who has had COVID-19 should again get tested and isolate if they have symptoms more than 28 days after being cleared from a COVID-19 infection. ACT Chief Health Officer Kerryn Coleman said this reduction to the reinfection period reflects the increasing evidence that prior infection with COVID-19 provides relatively limited protection against the Omicron BA.4 / BA.5 sub-variants, said ACT Health.
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Aged Care

11 July

Survey finds concerning lack of technology in residential aged care
A nationwide survey of residential aged care staff has found almost one in ten works in a facility reliant on paper records for care management, while critical digital systems are yet to be widely implemented in a sector in dire need of disruption. Conducted by the Aged Care Technology Consortium, the survey found only 8 per cent of residential aged care workers have access to a digital incident management system. Within the results, 3 per cent said their facility had implemented a visitor management platform, despite the need to monitor contacts and keep residents and staff members safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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9 July

Restoring Indigenous voice to Government on Aged Care
Jody Currie, a Yugambeh woman with traditional ties to the country between the Logan and Tweed Rivers in Queensland, has been appointed to the Australian Government's National Aged Care Advisory Council. The National Aged Care Advisory Council provides expert advice to Government on the aged care sector and implementation of the reforms. Minister for Aged Care Anika Wells said, 'The theme of this year's NAIDOC Week is Get Up! Stand Up! Show Up! Jody Currie's appointment to my Advisory Council on aged care restores the representation of First Nations people.' Assistant Minister for Indigenous Health Malarndirri McCarthy said, 'For far too long older First Nations people have experienced barriers to accessing aged care services in their homes and communities.'
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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

13 July

New online cancer hub a game changer
The Government launched the Cancer Hub - a national one-stop digital hub that will change the way young Australians access cancer-related services. The Cancer Hub will, for the first time, provide online counselling services to children under 12 with cancer, and their parents. It builds on Canteen Connect's current service, which provides online counselling to people 12 to 25 years, seven days a week. The new Cancer Hub, a partnership between Canteen, Camp Quality and Redkite, will mean people under 25 years and their parents can access immediate, consolidated, and tailored cancer navigation, counselling and support services, said Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler.
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First-generation antihistamines - winter warning
With the arrival of winter and flu season, consumers and health professionals are reminded that first-generation antihistamines, including those available over-the-counter (OTC), should not be used for the treatment of cough, cold and flu symptoms in children under 6 years. First-generation antihistamines should not be given to children under 2 years of age for any indication. First-generation antihistamines were introduced in the 1940s and are still used, said the Department of Health and Aged Care and the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
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TAS: Independent Co-Chairs appointed to Child Safe Governance Review
'An important step has been taken in the Child Safe Governance Review into the Launceston General Hospital (LGH) and Human Resources, which will focus on resetting the organisational structure of the LGH and Human Resources, with a priority focus on the handling of serious misconduct such as institutional child sexual abuse,' said Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff. 'While we look forward to the recommendations next year from the Commission of Inquiry, we will not be waiting to take action where it is clear it is needed now. This Review is starting immediately and is about making important and necessary change, through the lens of safeguarding children.'
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Clinical Governance

13 July

New online cancer hub a game changer
The Government launched the Cancer Hub - a national one-stop digital hub that will change the way young Australians access cancer-related services. The Cancer Hub will, for the first time, provide online counselling services to children under 12 with cancer, and their parents. It builds on Canteen Connect's current service, which provides online counselling to people 12 to 25 years, seven days a week. The new Cancer Hub, a partnership between Canteen, Camp Quality and Redkite, will mean people under 25 years and their parents can access immediate, consolidated, and tailored cancer navigation, counselling and support services, said Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler.
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12 July

Ministerial mission to Indonesia to combat foot and mouth disease
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt will hold face-to-face talks with his Indonesian counterparts in Jakarta, as Australia supports Indonesia's efforts to contain the spread of food and mouth disease. Minister Watt will be accompanied by senior officials from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, including Australia's Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Mark Schipp, along with National Farmers' Federation President Fiona Simson. This high-level delegation demonstrates a united stand between government and the farm sector, to ensure the Government keeps Australian agriculture safe.
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11 July

Medibank reveals refreshed brand platform celebrating 'Human Potential'
Medibank has unveiled the latest iteration of its brand positioning, symbolising its evolution as a health company, and celebrating the benefits of health and wellbeing in a unique way. Medibank has unveiled the latest iteration of its brand positioning, symbolising its evolution as a health company, and celebrating the benefits of health and wellbeing in a unique way. The refreshed brand platform supports Medibank's 2030 vision to create the best health and wellbeing for Australia. The platform's intent is to reframe how people think about themselves, which is often in a critical manner, when in fact, humans are incredible feats of evolution.
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Construction and Health Infrastructure

14 July

QLD: Contractor appointed for new $7 million Mer Island Primary Healthcare Centre
Cairns-based WIP Qld Pty Ltd has been appointed contractor for the construction of a new $7 million primary healthcare centre and associated staff accommodation on Mer (Murray) Island in the Torres Strait. Queensland Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Yvette D'Ath said WIP expected to be onsite at Mer Island in the coming weeks, with construction of the new facility expected to be completed by mid-2023, weather permitting. Ms D'Ath said the new primary healthcare centre would have improved patient areas and provision for the use of the most up to date health technology.
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13 July

NSW: Designs unveiled for $479 million Ryde Hospital
The Ryde community will benefit from a transformation of health care with designs for the $479 million Ryde Hospital redevelopment showcasing a state-of-the-art facility. NSW Minister for Health Brad Hazzard unveiled the latest concept designs and said the NSW Government's significant investment in Ryde Hospital will ensure enhanced and expanded health services for the future closer to home. Member for Ryde Victor Dominello said it also makes best use of the current services, including the Graythwaite Rehabilitation Centre and preserving the historic Denistone House as well as delivering contemporary education, training and research to strengthen tertiary partnerships.
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VIC: New Avoca Ambulance Station another step closer
The Victorian Government is boosting ambulance resources in the Pyrenees, giving paramedics the facilities and support they need to quickly respond to local emergencies and save lives. Victorian Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas announced planning is progressing on the new Avoca Ambulance Station, with a preferred site on Rowe Street named for the new multi-million-dollar station. The new ambulance station will feature a three-bay garage for ambulances, two rest and recline areas for hard- working paramedics to recuperate, relievers' quarters, training facilities, a fully equipped kitchen and improved security and car parking to make sure paramedics are safe.
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Dental

None this edition.

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Disabilities

14 July

Extended fourth dose vaccination and antiviral treatments
Eligible people aged 16 years or older with disability, significant or complex health needs, or multiple comorbidities which increase the risk of a poor outcome continue to be strongly encouraged to take up their next or fourth COVID vaccination dose to reduce the risk of waning protection and COVID illness. It is critical that people with disabilities, many of whom are medically vulnerable to COVID- 19, have access to vaccinations. The Department of Health have also developed guidance for providers in the situation when a substitute decision maker does not give consent for an adult with disability to have a vaccination, said the National Disability Services (NDS).
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11 July

Updated Eligibility for oral COVID-19 treatments
The National Disability Insurance agency (NDIA) has announced that more people with disability may be eligible for potentially lifesaving COVID-19 antiviral treatments, including:
- immunocompromised people over the age of 18
- people with a broader range of chronic respiratory issues
- adults living with disability who have multiple medical conditions.
The changes have been made based on the latest evidence on the effectiveness and safety of these medicines. COVID-19 can be life-threatening for adults in high-risk groups, even when they are fully vaccinated.
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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

13 July

New online cancer hub a game changer
The Government launched the Cancer Hub - a national one-stop digital hub that will change the way young Australians access cancer-related services. The Cancer Hub will, for the first time, provide online counselling services to children under 12 with cancer, and their parents. It builds on Canteen Connect's current service, which provides online counselling to people 12 to 25 years, seven days a week. The new Cancer Hub, a partnership between Canteen, Camp Quality and Redkite, will mean people under 25 years and their parents can access immediate, consolidated, and tailored cancer navigation, counselling and support services, said Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler.
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Rural and remote patients left behind by telehealth cuts
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has once again urged the Government to make Medicare rebates for longer telehealth phone consultations a permanent fixture of the nation's telehealth scheme so that patients living outside of major cities can get the care they need when they need it. It comes following reports of a study released by technology company Phillips, which found that 40 per cent of people living in rural and remote areas had internet speeds that were less than 28 kilobits per second.
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Cuts to telehealth will hurt regional communities
'When telehealth became permanent for Australians during the pandemic under the former Coalition Government, it provided a lifeline for patients in regional communities,' said Shadow Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Federal Member for Mallee, Dr Anne Webster. 'The new Minister for Health and Aged Care has decided to discontinue funding to critical Telehealth features such as phone consultations over 20 minutes, initial specialist consultations, plus some disability and mental health services. This is a travesty and provides evidence of how out of touch the Government is with rural Australians.'
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12 July

AMA and RACGP call for urgent reinstatement of COVID-19 telehealth items
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) and Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) have asked federal Health Minister Mark Butler to meet with them to discuss the reinstatement of COVID-19 telehealth items cancelled on 1 July. In letters to the Minister, the AMA and RACGP urged the Government to immediately reverse the decision to let the telehealth items lapse, saying the telephone is a safe and effective means of delivering essential care to all Australians, especially during the worsening pandemic. 'These changes undermine the ability of patients to access their doctors, and in particular for GPs to prescribe antivirals for COVID-positive patients,' AMA President, Dr Omar Khorshid said.
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Education and Training

None this edition.

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Funding

13 July

Greater investment needed in general practice care of people with diabetes
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has urged the new federal Government to boost investment in general practice to provide more time to care for people with diabetes. It comes during National Diabetes Week (10 - 16 July 2022). Around 1.8 million people in Australia have diabetes (this includes all types of diabetes as well as silent, undiagnosed type 2 diabetes) with 280 people developing the condition every day. RACGP President Adj. Professor Karen Price said that the new federal Government can do more to enhance general practice care of people with diabetes.
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08 July

NSW: New paramedics start under $1.76 Billion investment
More than 100 newly qualified paramedics have joined NSW Ambulance as part of the NSW Government's record $1.76 billion boost to frontline emergency care. NSW Treasurer Matt Kean said he was thrilled to see 102 university graduate paramedics start their six-week induction course at the new NSW Ambulance headquarters at Homebush ahead of a 12-month internship. 'This new wave of recruits joins more than 6,500 NSW Ambulance staff. Thanks to the NSW Government's record $1.76 billion investment in frontline emergency care under the 2022-23 NSW Budget, this will make NSW the largest paramedic workforce in Australia,' Mr Kean said.
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Health Professionals

13 July

Psychiatrist suspended for self-prescribing
A Victorian psychiatrist has been reprimanded, suspended from practice for three months and fined $15,000 for inappropriately self-prescribing restricted medicines. In its decision on 16 June 2022, the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (tribunal) found that Dr Yogananda Ballekere had engaged in professional misconduct. The tribunal found Dr Ballekere prescribed 13 different Schedule 4 medicines on 38 occasions between January 2017 and August 2018 in the name of a third party, for the purpose of self- administration, said the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
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Support us to support you to stay well this Winter
The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) is urging members of the public to protect themselves, their family and friends as a new wave of COVID infections sweeps across the country - and support the nurses, midwives and care workers who have supported us all throughout the pandemic. The ANMF said it is imperative Australians do 'all that they can' to ensure that nurses, midwives and care workers in health and aged care are protected and supported, as health services are placed under enormous strain by growing COVID cases, coupled with the onset of the 'flu season and other common upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs).
Download

Greater investment needed in general practice care of people with diabetes
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has urged the new federal Government to boost investment in general practice to provide more time to care for people with diabetes. It comes during National Diabetes Week (10 - 16 July 2022). Around 1.8 million people in Australia have diabetes (this includes all types of diabetes as well as silent, undiagnosed type 2 diabetes) with 280 people developing the condition every day. RACGP President Adj. Professor Karen Price said that the new federal Government can do more to enhance general practice care of people with diabetes.
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NSW: Ms Callista Elizabeth Menchin - Registered Nurse - Registration suspended for professional misconduct and unsatisfactory professional conduct
The NSW Health Care Complaints Commission prosecuted a complaint against formerly registered nurse, Callista Menchin before the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal ('the Tribunal'). It was alleged that between 2 May 2019 and 11 June 2019, while working in a regional hospital's Involuntary Drug & Alcohol Treatment Unit, Ms Menchin failed to maintain appropriate professional boundaries with an inpatient while in a therapeutic relationship, including engaging in physical contact, giving the patient her mobile telephone number and exchanging text messages with him, and transporting the patient while he was on leave from the unit.
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VIC: New Avoca Ambulance Station another step closer
The Victorian Government is boosting ambulance resources in the Pyrenees, giving paramedics the facilities and support they need to quickly respond to local emergencies and save lives. Victorian Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas announced planning is progressing on the new Avoca Ambulance Station, with a preferred site on Rowe Street named for the new multi-million-dollar station. The new ambulance station will feature a three-bay garage for ambulances, two rest and recline areas for hard- working paramedics to recuperate, relievers' quarters, training facilities, a fully equipped kitchen and improved security and car parking to make sure paramedics are safe.
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12 July

Conditions imposed on WA intern after alleged sexual assault
A Western Australian medical intern has had conditions imposed on his provisional registration, following an alleged assault on a fellow medical intern, reported the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Authority (AHPRA). WA medical intern Luke Sudhakar Voola Rao has had conditions imposed on his provisional registration, following an alleged assault on a fellow medical intern. The Medical Board of Australia took immediate action and suspended Dr Rao's provisional registration after he was charged on 16 March 2022 with alleged sexual assault. On 27 June 2022, the Western Australian State Administrative Tribunal set aside the suspension and instead imposed conditions on his practice, preventing him from examining or treating victims of sexual offences.
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WA: New clinical entrepreneur program for WA health professionals
Western Australian clinicians will now be able to participate in a national pilot program aimed at developing their entrepreneurial skills and vision, while continuing to deliver high- quality clinical care, announced WA Acting Minister for Medical Research Paul Papalia. This exciting opportunity for WA clinicians to benefit from the Australian Clinical Entrepreneur Program (AUSCEP) has been made possible by the Future Health Research and Innovation (FHRI) Fund. AUSCEP is a program of the Researcher Exchange and Development within Industry (REDI) initiative of the Commonwealth's Medical Research Future Fund.
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WA: New recruitment drive to encourage midwives to return to hospitals
The Government is calling on midwives who have recently left the profession to consider more flexible work opportunities back in the Western Australian health system, as part of a recruitment campaign to bolster the health workforce, announced WA Minister for Health Amber-Jade Sanderson. Like many jurisdictions around the world, WA is experiencing workforce pressures, including increasing demand for experienced midwives. The Department of Health will write to midwives who have recently retired to offer casual appointments with more flexible working arrangements, in the latest round of ongoing recruitment measures at public hospitals. Incentives are on offer for regional placements including travel, meal, accommodation and daily allowances.
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08 July

Tribunal reprimands a GP and suspends their registration
A GP has been reprimanded by a tribunal and had their registration suspended for two months for professional misconduct. The Medical Board of Australia (the Board) referred Dr Cameron Day to the South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (the tribunal) in September 2021. The Board alleged that Dr Day's behaviour involving the treatment of a patient constituted professional misconduct.
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Dr Yolande Lucire - Psychiatrist - Unsatisfactory Professional Conduct and Professional Misconduct
The Health Care Complaints Commission prosecuted a complaint against psychiatrist Dr Yolande Lucire before the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal ('the Tribunal'). It was alleged that from 2016 to 2017, while working in Sydney, Dr Lucire inappropriately cared for and treated Patient A, a woman who had just been discharged from a mental health unit, including by:
· ceasing her discharge medications without adequate inquiry from her previous treating practitioners
· forming the view that Patient A was not and had never suffered certain illnesses without adequate due diligence
· diagnosing her as having suffered thyrotoxicosis while in hospital without adequate evidence
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Hospitals

14 July

NSW, VIC: Construction starts on bigger, better emergency department
The New South Wales and Victorian governments are working together to build a new emergency department and short stay unit at Albury Wodonga Health's Albury campus to meet the future health needs of the community. Victorian Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas joined NSW Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor and Member for Albury Justin Clancy to turn the first sod on the $36 million project, marking the start of construction on the new emergency department. Mrs Taylor said the strong relationship between the NSW and Victorian governments delivering the project will help ensure the Albury-Wodonga community receives the world-class healthcare it deserves close to home.
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QLD: New $12.4 million primary health centre for Windorah
Construction of a new primary health centre in the remote community of Windorah in the Central West is now underway, with completion expected by the end of the year. QLD Assistant Minister for Health and Regional Health Infrastructure Julieanne Gilbert broke ground on the new $12.4 million facility on the corner of Maryborough and Cecil streets. She said the new Windorah PHC would be built in prefabricated modular style, like the new Boulia Primary Health Centre and Wellbeing Centre. QLD Health Minister Yvette D'Ath said the Windorah PHC replacement works would create about 35 full-time equivalent jobs over the life of the project.
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VIC: Bigger and better Wangaratta Hospital on the way
The Government is getting on with delivering an even bigger and better Wangaratta Hospital with two stages of the multi-million-dollar redevelopment now complete. Victorian Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas officially opened the new Short Stay Unit and Intensive Care Unit - delivered as part of the almost $23 million redevelopment. The new eight-bed Short Stay Unit provides acute care for patients who are expected to stay in the unit for less than 24 hours. To take care of the region's sickest patients, the redevelopment has also delivered a new 12-bed Intensive Care Unit equipped with the latest technology.
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13 July

NSW: Designs unveiled for $479 million Ryde Hospital
The Ryde community will benefit from a transformation of health care with designs for the $479 million Ryde Hospital redevelopment showcasing a state-of-the-art facility. NSW Minister for Health Brad Hazzard unveiled the latest concept designs and said the NSW Government's significant investment in Ryde Hospital will ensure enhanced and expanded health services for the future closer to home. Member for Ryde Victor Dominello said it also makes best use of the current services, including the Graythwaite Rehabilitation Centre and preserving the historic Denistone House as well as delivering contemporary education, training and research to strengthen tertiary partnerships.
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TAS: Independent Co-Chairs appointed to Child Safe Governance Review
'An important step has been taken in the Child Safe Governance Review into the Launceston General Hospital (LGH) and Human Resources, which will focus on resetting the organisational structure of the LGH and Human Resources, with a priority focus on the handling of serious misconduct such as institutional child sexual abuse,' said Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff. 'While we look forward to the recommendations next year from the Commission of Inquiry, we will not be waiting to take action where it is clear it is needed now. This Review is starting immediately and is about making important and necessary change, through the lens of safeguarding children.'
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VIC: New Avoca Ambulance Station another step closer
The Victorian Government is boosting ambulance resources in the Pyrenees, giving paramedics the facilities and support they need to quickly respond to local emergencies and save lives. Victorian Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas announced planning is progressing on the new Avoca Ambulance Station, with a preferred site on Rowe Street named for the new multi-million-dollar station. The new ambulance station will feature a three-bay garage for ambulances, two rest and recline areas for hard- working paramedics to recuperate, relievers' quarters, training facilities, a fully equipped kitchen and improved security and car parking to make sure paramedics are safe.
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Insurance

None this edition.

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Medicare

13 July

Rural and remote patients left behind by telehealth cuts
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has once again urged the Government to make Medicare rebates for longer telehealth phone consultations a permanent fixture of the nation's telehealth scheme so that patients living outside of major cities can get the care they need when they need it. It comes following reports of a study released by technology company Phillips, which found that 40 per cent of people living in rural and remote areas had internet speeds that were less than 28 kilobits per second.
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Men's Health

None this edition.

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Mental Health

13 July

One-Stop mental health hubs for families a step closer
Victorian families will soon have access to a one-stop shop for mental health care and health and wellbeing support for the whole family - with providers selected for three Infant, Child and Family Health and Wellbeing Hubs, announced Victorian Minister for Mental Health Gabrielle Williams and Federal Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Emma McBride. The three hubs will deliver a range of specialist medical and allied health services like paediatricians, psychologists, parenting support and speech pathologists under one roof, making support for mental health concerns easier for families.
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VIC: New Statewide Trauma Service seeking providers
The Victorian Government has opened submissions for providers to run the new Statewide Trauma Service (STS) - a key recommendation of the Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health system. Traumatic events and experiences can lead to a wide range of mental health and wellbeing difficulties, and the STS will help embed trauma-informed practice in the new mental health and wellbeing system - delivering better outcomes for Victorians living with the experience of trauma. The STS will bring together mental health practitioners, trauma experts, peer workers and people with lived experience, said Victorian Minister for Mental Health Gabrielle Williams.
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WA: EOI: Lived experience representatives wanted to support the implementation of the WA Bilateral Schedule on Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
On behalf of the Committee, the WA Mental Health Commission is seeking expressions of interest to appoint one consumer representative and one family member/carer representative to the Committee. The National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement is the first agreement of its kind and sets out the shared intention of the Commonwealth and state and territory governments to work in partnership to improve the mental health of all Australians and to enhance the services of the Australian mental health and suicide prevention system.
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11 July

New telepsych clinic pilot to give Australians faster access to vital mental health services
Medibank has partnered with Myhealth and Medinet to increase access to vital mental health services, launching a telepsychology clinic pilot that aims to reduce wait times from up to 3 months to just 2 weeks. Anyone over the age of 18 can access online psychology consultations by visiting one of the Myhealth GP clinics bane participating in the pilot to get a referral, if deemed appropriate by the GP. The telepsych clinic will provide virtual consultations and an innovative digital and phone concierge service to manage all aspects of the referral, booking and Medicare claims process along with feedback to the referring GP.
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VIC: More mental health support for regional schools
The Victorian Government is helping regional Victorian students access a suite of mental health tools to help them thrive in school and life. Kangaroo Flat Primary School in Bendigo will be one of the first schools to receive funding under the Victorian Government's $200 million Schools Mental Health program, to implement a range of tailored mental health supports for students. The program delivers a key recommendation of the Royal Commission into Mental Health - to support social and emotional wellbeing in schools, said Victorian Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins and Victorian Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards.
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VIC: Pandemic declaration extended, but COVID mental health programs axed
'Mental health programs designed to support Victorians through COVID isolation and uncertainty have been axed, despite last week's three-month extension to pandemic declaration powers,' said Victorian Shadow Minister for Mental Health Emma Kealy. 'It's been revealed Kids Helpline is among more than 15 organisations offering COVID recovery mental health support programs to be hit by $59.4 million in Victorian Government funding cuts. A free 24/7 phone and online children's counselling service run by Kids Helpline was among the programs to be cut - despite an overwhelming number of kids reporting their mental health is 'being overlooked'.'
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08 July

QLD: Yulu-Burri-Ba Corporation secures $235,000 Queensland Government grant to improve mental health for Minjerribah youth
Better mental health and life outcomes for young people on Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) is the target of the Yulu-Burri-Ba Aboriginal Corporation for Community Health in partnership with the Government. The North Stradbroke Island Indigenous Youth Social and Emotional Wellbeing Program will facilitate after-hours activities and yarning circles with Elders, offer counselling sessions and specialist services, and provide a safe place for young people to go when feeling overwhelmed. QLD Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Craig Crawford said the project was one of five locally led initiatives across the State, totalling more than $1 million, to improve community social health.
Yulu-Burri-Ba Corporation
Galangoor Duwulami Corporation
Palm Island Community Company
Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council
Inala Wangarra

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Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System

None this edition.

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Pharmaceuticals and Regulation

14 July

Delahunty's Chemist recognised for 90 years of pharmacy service
Pharmacy Guild of Australia Queensland Branch President Chris Owen, thanked and congratulated Delahunty's Chemist for nine decades of pharmacy service and providing primary healthcare for Queenslanders. 'On behalf of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Guild members, staff and patients who have been cared for by Delahunty's Chemist, I wish to congratulate Delahunty's Chemist and the three generations of the Delahunty family for this impressive and deserving milestone,' Mr. Owen said. 'Since opening during the challenging depression era, the Delahunty's Chemist has experienced constant evolution with changes to pharmacist scope, technology innovation, patients as health consumers, and more recently the impacts of the Coronavirus pandemic.'
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13 July

Pharmacists delivering record COVID-19 vaccinations
Australian pharmacists are delivering following surging demand for COVID-19 vaccinations, with figures released by the Department of Health show that pharmacists have delivered more than 52,000 COVID-19 vaccinations in the last day and over 7.7 million since the start of the rollout. Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) National President Dr Fei Sim said these vaccination numbers highlight the accessibility of community pharmacists, as well as the trust the public has in Australian pharmacists.
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12 July

Opioid regulation needs urgent review
Painaustralia, the peak advocacy body for the one in five Australians suffering chronic pain, is calling on the new health minister to urgently review the 2020 opioid reforms. In a letter, the new Chief Executive Officer of Painaustralia, Giulia Jones, has bluntly told the new Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler, the reforms have failed Australians. 'Painaustralia supported action to slow the accelerating use of opioids, but the reforms have gone too far,' Mrs Jones said. 'And they have been rolled out with nowhere near enough information provided to both general practitioners and consumers.'
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11 July

Drug utilisation sub-committee outcome statement 2 June - 3 June 2022
The Drug Utilisation Sub-Committee (DUSC) of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) held its 105th meeting on the 2nd June - 3rd June 2022, according to the Department of Health and Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). DUSC has a national focus of excellence in collecting, analysing and interpreting data on the utilisation of medicines in Australia for use by the PBAC. Review of the utilisation of medicines is an essential management tool in facilitating the objectives of the National Medicines Policy. The PBAC is also committed to understanding consumer perspectives and integrating them into consideration of medicines and vaccines.
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