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 May

Privacy protections for COVIDSafe App enshrined in law
Strict privacy protections for users of the COVIDSafe app will now be enshrined in law after legislation introduced by the Government was passed by Parliament. The app is an important tool in the fight against COVID-19, and the Privacy Amendment (Public Health Contact Information) Act, 2020, should give Australians full confidence that their private information is in safe hands. 'This legislation clearly defines the very limited circumstances in which COVIDSafe data can be collected, used or disclosed, as well as prescribing significant criminal and civil penalties for any misuse,' Attorney-General Christian Porter said. Minister for Health Greg Hunt said the app had already been downloaded more than 5.68 million times.
Download

OAIC expands oversight role as privacy safeguards for COVIDSafe app made law
The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) said OAIC Commissioner Angelene Falk welcomed changes to the Privacy Act 1988 that enshrine strict privacy safeguards for COVIDSafe app data in law. The Privacy Amendment (Public Health Contact Information) Bill 2020 makes mishandling of COVIDSafe app data an offence and an interference with privacy. 'The new law contains strong privacy measures to give Australians confidence in the protection of their personal information within the COVIDSafe system,' Commissioner Falk said.
Download

Law Council pleased to see legislation for Tracing app passed
The Law Council of Australia is pleased to see the passage of the Privacy Amendment (Public Health Contact Information) Bill 2020 through Parliament. 'This will put the regulatory framework governing the operation of the COVIDSafe App on a statutory footing, replacing the Determination made under the Biosecurity Act 2015 (Cth)' said the Law Council. Law Council President, Pauline Wright said she was gratified to see that government had incorporated several amendments as suggested by the Law Council. 'While some issues of concern remain, we were pleased to be able to work with government to achieve an outcome that goes a considerable way towards satisfying our concerns raised on the Exposure Draft Bill,' Ms Wright said.
Download

Doctors in the House team up to keep Australians safe
Five medical practitioners who now serve as parliamentarians in 46th Parliament have teamed up to support the use of the COVIDsafe App. Dr David Gillespie, Dr Katie Allen, Dr Mike Freelander, Dr Richard Di Natale and Dr Andrew Laming have come together to encourage all Australians to download the COVIDSafe App. The app is designed to slow the spread of COVID-19 using contact tracing. By downloading the app on your phone and ensuring Bluetooth is turned on the app helps to find close contacts of COVID-19 cases. The COVIDSafe app speeds up the current manual process of finding people who have been in close contact with someone with COVID-19.
Download

ACT: COVID-19 update - 14 May 2020
The ACT Department of Health said there have been no new cases of COVID-19 recorded in the ACT. The ACT's total is still 107. The number of negative tests in the ACT is now 12,959. ACT Chief Health Officer Dr Kerryn Coleman has thanked the Canberra community for the large number of COVID-19 tests undertaken in the last 24 hours. 'In just the last day we have completed 429 tests with no detection of any new COVID-19 cases,' Dr Coleman said. 'It is important that we keep testing as many people as we can to get the best possible picture of what is going on in the community'.
Download

NSW: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) statistics
As at 8pm Wednesday 13 May 2020, there have been four additional cases of COVID-19 diagnosed since 8pm 12 May, bringing the total number of cases to 3,063. There were 9,747 people tested in the reporting period, compared with 8,117 people in the previous 24 hours. Nearly 334,000 people have now been tested for COVID-19 in NSW, which has one of the highest testing rates in the world. NSW Health would like to thank those with symptoms for coming forward, getting tested and ensuring cases in the community are identified as quickly as possible.
Download

WA: COVID-19 update - 14 May 2020
The WA Department of Health reported one new case of COVID-19, bringing the State's total to 554. 'The case is a female in her 30s who is close contact of a confirmed case and is currently self-isolating. There are seven active cases across the State with one in regional WA' said the Department. 'Of the State's active cases, all seven are from Western Australia. In Western Australia 538 people have now recovered from the virus. There is now only one COVID-19 patient in a Perth metropolitan hospital. The patient is in ICU'.
Download

13 May

Opening of 100th COVID-19 GP-led respiratory clinic
The 100th GP-led respiratory clinic opens in Mudgee, New South Wales, as part of the Government's $2.4 billion health response to the COVID-19 outbreak. 'While Australians and our wonderful health professionals have done an outstanding job of containing the virus so far, we need to be prepared for further cases,' Minister Hunt said. Minister for Regional Health Mark Coulton said the clinics are helping to ensure rural patients with mild respiratory issues could see a doctor, without putting other patients at risk, almost half of the clinics are located in regional, rural or remote areas.
Download

First arrest on coronavirus welfare fraud
The Government's new anti-fraud Taskforce Iris has made its first arrest over alleged fraudulent welfare claims designed to help Australians affected by the coronavirus pandemic and the recent bushfires. Services Australia identified a range of suspicious claims submitted by the 34-year year old Western Sydney man and worked directly with the Australian Federal Police to stop the illegal activity. Minister for Home Affairs Peter Dutton said the Government is committed to stamping out illegal activity against government payments. Minister for Government Services Stuart Robert, said Services Australia is doing everything it can to protect vulnerable customers and taxpayers money.
Download

QLD: COVID-19 - Wed May 13: Hospitality flows and beauty glows
Licensed hospitality is ready to flow, and professional beauty services are ready to glow, with the number of active COVID-19 cases in Queensland still below 20. There are now 18 active cases, 1028 recovered and six deaths for a total of 1052. Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the continued positive news about case numbers was a good lead up to the first stage of easing restrictions from Saturday, when up to ten patrons at a time may dine in at restaurants, pubs, clubs, RSLs and cafes.
Download

WA: COVID-19 update - 13 May 2020
Western Australia has recorded no new cases of COVID-19. The State's total stands at 553, said WA Health. There are six active cases across the State with one in regional WA. Of the State's active cases, all six are from Western Australia. In Western Australia 538 people have now recovered from the virus. There is now only one COVID-19 patient in a Perth metropolitan hospital. The patient is in ICU.
Download

WA: Drive-through influenza vaccine clinic for over 65s
Operating out of the Crown Perth car park in Burswood, the clinic will allow people to remain in their car while they are immunised. The clinic will be open from 9.30am to 2.30pm, Tuesday May 19 to Friday May 22. No bookings are required. Influenza is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause severe illness and life-threatening complications. People aged 65 years and over are at higher risk of serious complications from influenza. WA Minister for Health Roger Cook said: 'The McGowan Government's drive-through flu immunisation clinic offers older Western Australians quick, easy access to free influenza vaccination from their own car.'
Download

12 May

International Nurses Day 2020
The tireless work of Australia's nurses have been recognised by the Government as part of International Nurses Day. Minister Hunt, said the virus emergency had created challenges for many, none were tougher than for the world-class health professionals working on the frontline. 12 May marks the day one of the founders of modern nursing, Florence Nightingale, was born. Minister for Aged Care and Senior Australians Richard Colbeck, said more than 31,000 registered nurses and more than 18,000 enrolled nurses are working in aged care across Australia. Minister Coulton, said more than 95,000 nurses work outside of Australia's metropolitan areas - around 27 per cent of the total nursing workforce.
Download

National Cabinet Should Become a Permanent Feature of Australian Politics
The President of the Australian Medical Association (AMA), Dr Tony Bartone, said that the success of the National Cabinet in managing the COVID-19 crisis provides a very strong case for it to become a permanent feature of Australian politics. Dr Bartone said the National Cabinet - which comprises the Prime Minister and the State and Territory Premiers and Chief Ministers, and is guided by expert advice from the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC), made up of Chief Medical Officers - has operated efficiently and made key decisions quickly to guide Australia through the crisis.
Download

COVID-19 shows prevention can be the difference between life and death
The impact of COVID-19 provides powerful evidence for the Government to boost Australia's health prevention measures said the Consumers Health Forum (CHF). Articles in the latest edition of CHF's ejournal Health Voices underscore how avoidable chronic health conditions have made many patients more vulnerable to the worst effects of a disease like coronavirus. 'We can now see that preventive health will have saved many lives affected by COVID-19, while lack of preventive practices has doomed the lives of many thousands of others around the world,' CEO Leanne Wells said.
Download

RACGP welcomes social media platforms acting on COVID-19 pandemic misinformation
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has welcomed news that popular social media platforms are acting to limit the impact of misleading information concerning the COVID-19 pandemic. Twitter plans to warn users when a tweet contains disputed or misleading content and Facebook is organising for 'fact checkers' to review false information on its platform. Dr Nespolon said that these measures were needed now more than ever. 'Throughout this pandemic I have been warning Australians to be wary of false or misleading medical 'advice' and updates on social media concerning the COVID-19 pandemic and other health issues.'
Download

NT: Boosting domestic and family violence services during COVID-19
The NT Government is putting victims first and boosting domestic and family violence services to keep vulnerable Territorians safe, particularly due to the impact of COVID-19, said Minister for Territory Families Dale Wakefield. Across the nation, there have been increases in domestic and family violence and the NT Government is ensuring that services are boosted now, so that victims will be able to get the support they need. 10 organisations across the Territory will receive close to $3 million (total) in funding to deliver 35 projects focused on introducing new or enhanced counselling services, creating flexible care packages for clients, increasing outreach services and improving the governance and operations of services, including staff health and wellbeing.
Download

QLD: Queensland novel coronavirus (COVID-19) update
Queensland has six additional confirmed cases of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) to report, said the Queensland Department of Health. All six cases are Queensland residents who were diagnosed and treated in other states. They have all now recovered. These cases have been included in Queensland's total in accordance with national guidelines that require confirmed cases to be reported and recorded based on the person's state of residence, not where they were tested for COVID-19 or where they were infected.
Download

SA: New protections for South Australians during the Covid-19 pandemic
SA Attorney-General Vickie Chapman will introduce the latest legislative measures aimed at keeping South Australians safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Legislative measures include speeding up infrastructure projects, ensuring clarity in disputes between commercial landlords and tenants, better supports for mental health and disability clients and moves to better ensure the electricity supply. 'These are measures that will address various aspects of the operation of both Government and the Parliament during the declared emergency period,' SA Attorney-General Chapman said.
Download

11 May

ACT: COVID-19 update
There have been no new cases of COVID-19 recorded in the ACT in the past 24 hours, announced the ACT Department of Health. The ACT's total is still 107. The number of negative tests in the ACT is now 11832. ACT Chief Health Officer Dr Kerryn Coleman has urged the community to maintain physical distancing requirements when out in public. 'As a community, Canberrans have worked really hard to adjust our lifestyles and flatten the curve. However failing to adhere to physical distancing and social gathering requirements could undermine all of this work very quickly and it was a shame to hear that some people visiting reopened shops or while getting takeaway coffee over the weekend were not complying to the requirements,' Dr Coleman said.
Download

QLD: COVID-19
Economic recovery projects are high on the agenda in Queensland, as 27 more recoveries since Friday and no new cases reduces the number of active COVID-19 cases to below 20 for the first time since early March. There are now 18 active cases, 1021 recovered and six deaths for a total of 1045. Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk again thanked Queenslanders for the terrific health effort. 'We are all working together and we are going to get through this,' Ms Palaszczuk said.
Download

TAS: Expansion of mobile coronavirus testing clinics
'The health, safety and wellbeing of Tasmanians is our highest priority as we face the challenges presented by COVID-19. As we take safe, gradual steps to re-open services and activities in our community, in line with our Roadmap to Recovery, community testing for COVID-19 is more important than ever. Tasmania is now approaching 20,000 tests conducted since the pandemic began - a huge effort and a credit to our community and the hardworking staff operating our clinics,' said Tasmanian Minister for Health Sarah Courtney.
Download

VIC: Statement from the Premier
'Over the past two weeks, we've tested more than 160,000 Victorians for coronavirus. I want to thank each and every one of them for playing their part in protecting our state,' said Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews. 'The job isn't done yet - and that size and scale of testing will continue to be a big part of our response in the weeks and months to come. But because of that initial data, we've been able to get a better understanding of the way the virus is moving through our community. And with it, greater insight into how we can respond.'
Download

VIC: Crack investigative teams for coronavirus outbreaks
New rapid response teams will be established to prevent, respond to and limit outbreaks as part of a major coronavirus surveillance boost announced by the Victorian Government to coincide with the first step in easing restrictions. Victorian Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos and Victorian Premier Andrews announced $20 million for a range of measures that will continue beyond the recent testing blitz, which has seen 161,000 Victorians tested over the past two weeks.
Download

WA: COVID-19 update - 11 May 2020
Western Australia has recorded another day with no new cases of COVID-19, said the WA Department of Health. The State's total stands at 552. There are seven active cases across the State, one in regional WA. Of the State's active cases, six are from Western Australia and one is from interstate. In Western Australia 536 people have now recovered from the virus, which represents 97 per cent of cases. There are now four confirmed COVID-19 patients in Perth metropolitan hospitals, with one of these in ICU.
Download

WA: Limited COVID-19 community transmission a good sign for WA
Western Australia is in the fortunate position of having very limited community transmission of COVID-19; far less than many other jurisdictions in the world or Australia, said the WA Department of Health. WA Health Medical Lead of Personal Protective Equipment Dr Chris Blyth said Western Australia's limited community transmission of COVID-19 made it far different to the environment in New York, Italy or other hard-hit communities seen on the nightly news.
Download

WA: Dashboard puts local COVID data within easy reach
Local COVID-19 information is now at the fingertips of all Western Australians after the launch of a new COVID-19 dashboard. The dashboard enables members of the public to track the State's current COVID-19 curve and stay up-to-date with other local COVID-19 information through a combination of maps, graphs and tables. It has been developed by the WA Department of Health and can be accessed from its website.
Download

10 May

WA: The WA roadmap for easing COVID-19 restrictions
The WA Government has a roadmap to carefully ease COVID-19 restrictions, to start getting Western Australians back to work safely and begin the process of re-starting the State's economy. The four phase plan was developed in conjunction with the National Cabinet framework and is based on the best health advice for Western Australia. Phase 1 is already in place following the cautious relaxing of some restrictions from April 27, 2020, to allow families and friends to stay connected, said WA Premier Mark McGowan.
Download

WA: COVID-19 update: 10 May 2020
The WA Department of Health is reporting zero new cases of COVID-19, leaving the State's total at 552. There are seven active cases across the State, one in regional WA. Of the State's seven active cases, six are from Western Australia and one is from interstate. In Western Australia 536 people have now recovered from the virus, which represents 97 per cent of cases.
Download

9 May

WA: Coming together to make COVID-19 research a priority
The WA Government, HBF and the resources sector will be partnering together to provide funding for world-class COVID-19 research in Western Australia. The partnership will fund Western Australia's vital COVID-19 research, including the expansion of the WA Government's DETECT program, designed to determine the presence of any undetected COVID-19 in key sentinel groups or settings. The WA Government will also introduce changes to legislation before the WA Parliament that will support the injection of up to $6 million into COVID-19 research and innovation, said WA Minister for Health Roger Cook.
Download

8 May

Disinfectants for use against COVID-19 in the ARTG for legal supply in Australia
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has recently received a number of enquiries seeking to know which disinfectants have been entered into the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) for use against COVID-19. Claims that a disinfectant has an effect against any virus must be expressly permitted by the TGA before being used in consumer advertising (including on the label). In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the TGA has permitted SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 virus claims.
Download

COVID-19 test kits included in the ARTG for legal supply in Australia
The TGA has approved the following tests for inclusion in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). Please note: Conditions have been imposed on the supply of COVID-19 serology-based point of care tests. The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity has also been funded to undertake a post-market assessment of new COVID-19 rapid tests to inform their best use.
Download

AMA commends National Cabinet on cautious approach to lifting COVID-19 restrictions
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) commends the National Cabinet for continuing to listen to expert medical advice by proposing a cautious, phased, and gradual lifting of COVID-19 restrictions. AMA President, Dr Bartone, said that the National Cabinet's three step plan is in line with the AMA's advice and recommendations. 'The gradual lifting of restrictions is welcome, but we must not become complacent. Patience and vigilance will still be required,' Dr Bartone said.
Download

ACT: FAQs Changes to Restrictions
From 11.59pm on Friday 8 May 2020, COVID-19 restrictions have eased further to support families and the economy, said the ACT Department of Health. Key changes that will take effect across the ACT:
- All indoor and outdoor gatherings can have a maximum of 10 people (including children).
- This includes gatherings at a person's home, which can be a maximum of 10 people.
- Weddings can now have up to 10 people attend, excluding those conducting the ceremony.
- Indoor funerals can have up to 20 people attend, excluding those conducting the service, OR outdoor funerals can have up to 30 people attend, excluding those conducting the service.
Download

NSW: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) statistics
NSW Health said as at 8pm Thursday 7 May 2020, four additional cases of COVID-19 have been diagnosed since 8pm 6 May, bringing the total to 3,047. During that time, 9,461 people were tested, compared to 10,902 people in the 24 hours before. NSW Health would like to thank those with symptoms for coming forward, getting tested and ensuring as many cases in the community are identified as quickly as possible. One case previously reported in the NSW totals has now been excluded after further testing, reflecting the adjusted overall total of 3,047 confirmed cases. There have been no new deaths in the reporting period.
Download

QLD: COVID-19
More COVID-19 restrictions will ease, with two more stages to follow in June and July, as another day of no new cases and five more recoveries reduces the number of active Queensland cases. There are now 45 active cases, 994 recovered and six deaths for a total of 1045. Queensland Premier Palaszczuk a ROADMAP to easing restrictions from 11.59pm Friday May 15 followed by stage two in June and stage three in July. 'I want to thank every Queenslander, whether you live up in the Torres Strait, down on the Gold Coast, in the outback or our coastal communities, everyone is stepping up and doing a great job,' Ms Palaszczuk said.
Download

QLD: Premier maps road to easing restrictions
Queensland Premier Palaszczuk has Queensland's roadmap to a COVID-safe recovery allowing more travel, more activities and larger gatherings. From 11.59pm, Friday May 15, the following will be allowed:
- Gatherings of a maximum of 10 people together in a public space
- Dining in at restaurants, pubs, clubs, RSLs and cafes for a maximum of 10 patrons at one time
- Recreational travel of a radius of up to 150km from your home for day trips
- Some beauty therapies and nail salons for up to 10 people at one time
- Reopening of libraries. playground equipment, skate parks and outdoor gyms (a maximum of 10 at one time)
Download

SA: Recovery from COVID-19
When the Prime Minister makes recommendations to the states about restriction guidelines relating to COVID-19, each state must then consider how those recommendations will be applied, said the SA Department of Health. They are not enforceable in South Australia until the State Coordinator, Commissioner Grant Stevens, enacts a Direction. While the Prime Minister and National Cabinet have a national framework, state and territory governments must develop their own plans for moving towards a COVID safe society and economy. This roadmap is South Australia's plan.
Download

TAS: Tasmania's Roadmap to Recovery
'I have our Roadmap to Recovery, outlining the journey we will take to rebuild a stronger Tasmania. While I thank all Tasmanians for following the rules and helping to suppress the virus, we know it isn't going to go away overnight. It is something we are going to have to live with for many months to come. That is why we have put in place our four safeguards - more testing, better tracing, rapid response, and COVIDSafe plans in order to gradually ease restrictions,' said Premier Peter Gutwein.
Download

TAS: Labor welcomes cautious approach to recovery
The Tasmanian Labor Party has welcomed clearer timeframes for Tasmania's recovery process from the COVID-19 crisis. Tasmanian Labor Leader Rebecca White said a cautious approach to easing restrictions was the best model going forward. 'While Tasmanians now have a clearer picture of when restrictions may ease, we must not become complacent,' Ms White said.
Download

Return to top

Aged Care

14 May

New Emergency Leave Provision for aged care residents
Senior Australians won't be penalised or disadvantaged for moving out of an aged care facility during crisis under emergency leave legislation amendments adopted by the Government. The emergency leave mechanism will be activated in volatile situations including natural disasters or health epidemics. Minister for Aged Care and Senior Australians Richard Colbeck, said the recent bushfires and the virus pandemic had highlighted the need to protect leave entitlements of aged care residents. Under current legislation, permanent residents are entitled to be away from their aged care residence for up to 52 days a year for non-hospital related reasons - known as social leave.
Download

12 May

Visitor Access Code offers clarity for residential aged care
The Government has welcomed the visitation code for residential aged care which prioritises access to loved ones while ensuring the protection of their health remains a priority. The Aged Care Visitor Access Code, developed in conjunction with consumer peak bodies sets out a nationally consistent, principles-based approach to maintaining residents' visitation and communication. Minister Colbeck said the guidelines struck the important balance of ensuring the health and wellbeing of aged care residents and retaining important social connections during the COVID-19 pandemic. The code provided an agreed approach and a clear path for providers, residents and their families during a difficult time.
Download

LASA salutes the passionate and professional nurses, leading and delivering quality care for older Australians
Leading Age Services Australia (LASA) praises nurses for their leadership and dedication in caring for older Australians, particularly during the coronavirus pandemic. International Nurses Day, 12 May 2020, marks the 200th birthday of the legendary Florence Nightingale - with the theme 'A voice to lead - nursing the world to health' - and will include an evening candlelight vigil. 'We say thank you for your passion and professionalism,' said LASA CEO Sean Rooney. 'The heart of quality aged care is good nursing, backed up by a wide range of care staff.'
Download

WA: Information and support line to enhance end-of-life support
The impact of COVID-19 has fast-tracked an initiative to provide support to Western Australians who are dealing with palliative care or end-of-life issues. The WA Government has invested nearly $100,000 for the Palliative Care Information and Support Line phone service, which launched on May 1, 2020. This free service will be delivered by Palliative Care WA for the next six months, offering essential information and support to Western Australians who are dealing with palliative care or end-of-life issues, said WA Minister for Health Roger Cook.
Download

11 May

Relaxing rules - Stay vigilant
With states and territories around the country beginning to relax social rules, National Seniors Australia is reminding everyone to maintain their own social distancing and hygiene rules. The country's peak consumer and advocacy body for older Australians is concerned some people will believe this is a green light to go back to normal. National Seniors Chief Advocate, Ian Henschke, cited the examples of Singapore and Germany where a second wave of the coronavirus spread after rules in those two countries were relaxed. 'People must still follow the advice of medical authorities and not see this as a time where we can start hugging one another or shaking hands,' he said.
Download

8 May

Aged care workers' inspiring efforts to keep older Australians safe despite the challenges of COVID-19
In presenting the findings of its national Aged Care COVID-19 Survey, the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) is acknowledging the inspiring efforts of aged care workers across the country to keep older Australians. The survey, conducted from 15 April to 6 May, aimed to assess aged care workers' sense of their employer's preparedness to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic and the strategies that had been put in place as well as identify the key challenges and major gaps in the aged care sector's response to COVID-19 from the perspective of those providing direct care to older Australians.
Download

ACT: Legislation to protect vulnerable Canberrans
Carers ACT and Carers Australia support legislation to protect aged people and people with disability against abuse. However, immediate referral of those suspected of abuse to the criminal justice system is in many cases neither an appropriate nor effective approach to dealing with these circumstances. 'As far as family and friend carers are concerned, these people often take on substantial caring responsibilities out of love and concern for the people they care for, often at a cost to their own financial future and health and wellbeing. Such motivations do not lend themselves to perpetrating abuse,' said Lisa Kelly CEO of Carers ACT.
Download

Return to top

Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety

14 May

Labor welcomes Royal Commission Inquiry into Covid-19 impact on aged care
Shadow Minister for Ageing and Seniors Julie Collins said Labor welcomes the announcement from the Aged Care Royal Commission that it will investigate the impact of COVID-19 on residential and home aged care. 'We have previously called on the Royal Commission to look into what went wrong at Newmarch House and we are pleased this will happen' said Ms Collins. 'The residents of Newmarch House, their loved ones and staff deserve answers. The Australian public deserves transparency on what happened and what went wrong'.
Download

Return to top

Allied Health

12 May

SA: Free or low-cost glasses for more South Australians
In response to feedback from customers and optometrists, SA Minister for Human Services, Michelle Lensink has expanded the program and introduced:
- Free standard glasses for eligible Aboriginal customers;
- Optional upgrades to standard glasses for all eligible customers;
- A contribution of $50 for eligible children who choose to upgrade their frames; and
- Thinner lenses for standard glasses, subject to prescription criteria, with the scheme now providing a $50 contribution for customers who need this type of lens.
Download

Return to top

Children's Health

None this edition.

Return to top

Clinical Governance

12 May

National Cabinet Should Become a Permanent Feature of Australian Politics
The President of the Australian Medical Association (AMA), Dr Tony Bartone, said that the success of the National Cabinet in managing the COVID-19 crisis provides a very strong case for it to become a permanent feature of Australian politics. Dr Bartone said the National Cabinet - which comprises the Prime Minister and the State and Territory Premiers and Chief Ministers, and is guided by expert advice from the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC), made up of Chief Medical Officers - has operated efficiently and made key decisions quickly to guide Australia through the crisis.
Download

SA: Operation restore elective surgery
The SA Government will become the first state to begin to fully restore elective surgery with the lifting of the Appropriate Surgery Direction under the Emergency Management Declaration. 'South Australians' outstanding progress in containing COVID-19 thus far and a substantial increase in the stockpile of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) has enabled the ramping up of elective surgery,' said SA Premier Steven Marshall. SA Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade said: 'In March 2018, the Marshall Liberal Government inherited an overdue elective surgery list of 1,583.'
Download

8 May

Australian Medical Association (NSW) authorised to collectively negotiate with private hospitals
The Australian Medical Association (NSW) Limited (AMA (NSW)) has been granted interim authorisation to collectively bargain with private hospitals about the contract terms of Visiting Medical Officers (VMOs) who are working in private hospitals, but are providing public patient services that have been transferred there from public hospitals in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, announced the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). VMOs are medical practitioners who work as independent contractors in public hospitals, in addition to working in private practice.
Download

Return to top

Construction and Health Infrastructure

15 May

NSW: New fleet for NSW Ambulance frontline
A fleet of 89 new state-of-the-art ambulances will be rolled out to communities across NSW as part of a $17 million funding boost from the NSW Government. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the new fleet will bring provide additional capacity across the state and ensure the health system can deal with any potential surge in COVID-19 cases. 'This is another step we are taking to ensure our health system is prepared for any spike in COVID-19 cases, especially as we ease restrictions and head into winter,' Ms Berejiklian said. NSW Minister for Health Brad Hazzard said the $17 million investment also delivers additional medical supplies including upgraded life-saving defibrillators.
Download

14 May

SA: Revitalised Repat's reactivation
The South Australian Government's vision for a thriving health precinct at the revitalised Repat are coming to fruition with the finalisation of plans for the $60 million second phase of the redevelopment. South Australian Premier Steven Marshall said the second stage of works will deliver outstanding medical facilities and create jobs for South Australians in the middle of the coronavirus downturn. 'We are delivering on our commitment to create a thriving health precinct at the Repat site, with the State Government investing more than $100 million in the first two stages of development,' said Mr Marshall.
Download

Return to top

Dental

None this edition.

Return to top

Disabilities

13 May

Disappointment that Senate didn't show solidarity with disabled people and carers who are struggling with costs due to COVID-19
'It's deeply disappointing that the Senate didn't demonstrate solidarity with disabled people and carers by supporting the Greens motion calling on the Government to provide the full $550 coronavirus supplement to Disability Support Pension and Carer Payment recipients,' Greens Senator Rachel Siewert said. 'Disabled people and carers feel abandoned by this Government and we had the opportunity to show them they have not been abandoned by the Senate.'
Download

11 May

Morrison Government continues rollout of the NDIS in face of coronavirus
The Government has continued to deliver the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), despite the emergence of the coronavirus, with new data showing around 27,500 people with disability joining the NDIS in the first quarter of 2020. Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Stuart Robert, said the latest NDIS Quarterly Report highlights the Scheme's continued support of Australians with disability with $4.3 billion paid for disability supports during the quarter - a 70 per cent increase on the same time last year.
Download

Meeting of the Council of Australian Governments Disability Reform Council
Commonwealth, State and Territory Disability Ministers met by telepresence, said the Department of Social Services. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss continued efforts to ensure that people with disability are supported and are able to access the services they need during the coronavirus (COVID- 19) pandemic. Ministers acknowledged Commonwealth, State and Territory Governments have implemented extensive coronavirus response measures to keep people with disability connected to the supports they require to maintain their health and wellbeing. Ministers committed to working with their Health colleagues to explore the future provision of telehealth to support people with disability to access health related support and to continue to build on flexible support arrangements.
Download

8 May

ACT: Legislation to protect vulnerable Canberrans
Carers ACT and Carers Australia support legislation to protect aged people and people with disability against abuse. However, immediate referral of those suspected of abuse to the criminal justice system is in many cases neither an appropriate nor effective approach to dealing with these circumstances. 'As far as family and friend carers are concerned, these people often take on substantial caring responsibilities out of love and concern for the people they care for, often at a cost to their own financial future and health and wellbeing. Such motivations do not lend themselves to perpetrating abuse,' said Lisa Kelly CEO of Carers ACT.
Download

Return to top

Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability

12 May

Royal Commission looks at employment of people with disability
The latest issues paper published by the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability looks at the experiences of people with disability in employment. In 2018, the Australian Bureau of Statistics Survey of Disability, Ageing and Carers, found just over half, 53.4 per cent of people with disability were in the labour force, compared with 84.1 per cent of people without disability. It found the median gross income for a person with disability aged 15 to 64 years was $505 per week, less than half the $1,016 per week of a person without disability.
Download

Landmark decision for the right of people with disability to have sex
The unanimous decision of the Federal Court to uphold the right of a person with disability to use their National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) funding to access sex work services is clear, and must be accepted. 'This courageous person with disability has fought for years to have her right to equal access to ordinary sexual expression funded through her NDIS plan,' said El Gibbs, Director, Media and Communications, People with Disability Australia (PWDA). 'She won her Administrative Appeals Tribunal case, and has now emphatically won in the Federal Court of Australia. We urge the NDIS to accept this decision, and allow people with disability to fund sexual expression through their plans.'
Download

Return to top

E-Health

None this edition.

Return to top

Education and Training

None this edition.

Return to top

Funding

None this edition.

Return to top

Health Professionals

14 May

Over half of world's healthcare workers attend work when sick
Co-author Professor Peter Collignon, from The Australian National University (ANU), said the study provides important lessons for the global coronavirus pandemic. 'It was bad enough before COVID-19 when it was just influenza and other respiratory viruses. But, now we have coronavirus it is more important than ever not go to work when you are unwell,' he said. 'This study shows too many people go to work when they are sick, and this includes many people on the frontline of healthcare. More than half of the global population of physicians and nurses went to work when they had flu like symptoms.'
Download

ACT: Recognising Canberra's Nurses and Midwives
ACT Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith congratulated the winners of the annual awards which celebrate the work our nurses and midwives do each day to contribute to the health and wellbeing of the Canberra community A Neonatal Midwife, a Clinical Nurse Consultant and two Emergency Department Registered Nurses have taken out the top three 2020 Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Awards in the categories of Midwife, Nurse and Team of the Year respectively. 'Globally, 2020 is being marked as the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife and given the exceptional events we're facing, it is very timely to acknowledge just how much we value the contribution of all nurses and midwives make to looking after and caring for our community' said Ms Stephen-Smith.
Download

13 May

Opening of 100th COVID-19 GP-led respiratory clinic
The 100th GP-led respiratory clinic opens in Mudgee, New South Wales, as part of the Government's $2.4 billion health response to the COVID-19 outbreak. 'While Australians and our wonderful health professionals have done an outstanding job of containing the virus so far, we need to be prepared for further cases,' Minister for Health Greg Hunt said. Minister for Regional Health Mark Coulton said the clinics are helping to ensure rural patients with mild respiratory issues could see a doctor, without putting other patients at risk, almost half of the clinics are located in regional, rural or remote areas.
Download

Morrison Government must move beyond platitudes and ensure all aged care workers receive retention bonus
The Government must expand eligibility for its retention bonus payment for aged care to all workers who are not currently covered, said Shadow Minister for Ageing and Seniors Julie Collins. Workers in aged care including cleaning, laundry and catering staff will not be included in the Government's retention bonus. Despite locking these workers out, the Government has repeatedly thanked aged care workers in Parliament.
Download

Perth city deal delayed again
The West Australian reports that the much-vaunted City Deal which will help breathe new life in Perth has been put on hold, said Shadow Minister for Cities and Urban Infrastructure Andrew Giles. Alan Tudge had all the time in world to announce a signed Perth City Deal - the Memorandum of Understanding was announced more than two years ago. Even before COVID-19, stakeholders have long been claiming that the Perth City Deal was at a standstill. The City Deal would provide the urgent stimulus to repair the economy amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Download

La Trobe University redundancies are the Federal Government's fault
Labor MPs Andrew Giles, Ged Kearney, Kate Thwaites and Lisa Chesters have called on the Federal Government to grant LaTrobe University access the JobKeeper Payment immediately. La Trobe University informed staff that the institution was facing a shortfall of between $33 million and $63 million in 2020. As a result, La Trobe will ask staff for expressions of interest for voluntary redundancy and pre-retirement contract programs. These redundancies are due to the Government. The Government changed the criteria for JobKeeper payments to exclude universities such as La Trobe from accessing the scheme.
Download

12 May

International Nurses Day 2020
The tireless work of Australia's nurses have been recognised by the Government as part of International Nurses Day. Minister Hunt, said the virus emergency had created challenges for many, none were tougher than for the world-class health professionals working on the frontline. 12 May marks the day one of the founders of modern nursing, Florence Nightingale, was born. Minister for Aged Care and Senior Australians Richard Colbeck, said more than 31,000 registered nurses and more than 18,000 enrolled nurses are working in aged care across Australia. Minister Coulton, said more than 95,000 nurses work outside of Australia's metropolitan areas - around 27 per cent of the total nursing workforce.
Download

LASA salutes the passionate and professional nurses, leading and delivering quality care for older Australians
Leading Age Services Australia (LASA) praises nurses for their leadership and dedication in caring for older Australians, particularly during the coronavirus pandemic. International Nurses Day, 12 May 2020, marks the 200th birthday of the legendary Florence Nightingale - with the theme 'A voice to lead - nursing the world to health' - and will include an evening candlelight vigil. 'We say thank you for your passion and professionalism,' said LASA CEO Sean Rooney. 'The heart of quality aged care is good nursing, backed up by a wide range of care staff.'
Download

VIC: Nurses upskill to prepare health services for the future
Victoria's health system has received a major workforce boost with thousands of nurses undertaking additional training ahead of the coronavirus pandemic - developing new skills that will continue to be put to good use in hospitals into the future. Victorian Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos celebrated International Day of the Nurse by thanking Victoria's nurses for the round-the-clock care they provide to their patients and the whole community.
Download

11 May

Thanking and remembering our nation's military nurses
On International Nurses Day, Australians recognise and celebrate the important contribution of nurses to the safety and prosperity of the country through times of conflict and in peacetime. Minister for Veterans' Affairs Darren Chester said for as long as Australians have served in combat, from the Boer War to present day, there have been nurses right behind them caring for those in need and saving many lives. 'More than 8,000 nurses served in the two World Wars in hospitals, on hospital ships and trains, or in casualty clearing stations closer to the front line. Sadly, 103 died across the two wars,' Mr Chester said.
Download

NSW: Final year students to boost COVID-19 response
Final year medical students will take on new, supervised roles in NSW hospitals under a $12.7 million initiative to boost the medical workforce if needed during the pandemic. NSW Minister for Health Brad Hazzard said the NSW Government is working with NSW universities to identify around 200 final year medical students who can be made available to work in non-COVID hospital wards, if required, to free up existing staff to care for COVID-19 cases.
Download

Return to top

Hospitals

15 May

QLD: 13 extra renal chairs for Townsville
Patients receiving treatment at the Townsville University Hospital's renal unit will soon be receiving the 'gold standard' in renal care thanks to a $4.8 million expansion officially opened by Queensland Deputy Premier and Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Steven Miles. Mr Miles said the expansion, which would deliver an additional 13 renal chairs to the unit, was about providing world-class health facilities to the people of north Queensland. 'Townsville's renal unit has gone from 17 to 30 chairs which will benefit patients across north Queensland now and into the future,' Mr Miles said.
Download

VIC: Joan Kirner Women's and Children's celebrates first birthday
One year since it opened its doors to patients in Melbourne's west, more than 6,000 babies have been delivered at the world-class Joan Kirner Women's and Children's Hospital in St Albans. Victorian Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos marked the hospital's first birthday by thanking the more than 600 staff and dozens of volunteers who work tirelessly to provide the highest level of care for all patients, including mums and their newborns. The first baby born at the hospital - Tallia Baez Mikhael. Tallia was delivered by caesarean section and was one of 6,054 babies born at the hospital in its first year, including 102 sets of twins.
Download

14 May

Public information key to combatting rising 'superbug' threat
With predictions that drug-resistant 'superbugs' could cause up to 10 million deaths a year by 2050, a new CSIRO survey has revealed a low level of community knowledge about antibiotics. The rise of superbugs, which claimed the lives of an estimated 700,000 people globally in the past year, has been attributed to the overuse of antibiotics. To combat the growing problem, the OUTBREAK project was set up in 2019 by the University of Technology Sydney, CSIRO and other partners. In a world first, the project aims to use Artificial Intelligence to predict superbug outbreaks and stop them before they reach the health system.
Download

13 May

TAS: North West Regional Hospital fully operational by tomorrow
The health, safety and wellbeing of Tasmanians is the highest priority as the Tasmanian health system continue to deal with COVID-19. Progress is continuing on recommissioning the North West Regional Hospital with outpatients, readmissions and medical ward C recently reopening. Other non-clinical areas will reopen, marking the formal end of the full recommissioning of the NWRH, said Tasmanian Minister for Health Sarah Courtney.
Download

12 May

SA: Operation Restore Elective Surgery
The SA State Government will become the first state to begin to fully restore elective surgery with the lifting of the Appropriate Surgery Direction under the Emergency Management Declaration. 'South Australians' outstanding progress in containing COVID-19 thus far and a substantial increase in the stockpile of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) has enabled the ramping up of elective surgery,' said SA Premier Steven Marshall. 'I want to thank those South Australians who have had their surgery postponed for their patience. Their surgery has been on hold, not only for their own safety, but also for the safety of the wider community in the midst of a pandemic.'
Download

Return to top

Insurance

None this edition.

Return to top

Medicare

None this edition.

Return to top

Men's Health

None this edition.

Return to top

Mental Health

15 May

VIC: Continuing reform of Victoria's mental health system
Victoria's mental health system will receive additional resources, staff and vital programs as more people seek help as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Victorian Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley announced an additional $19.5 million in funding to deliver essential reform recommendations from the Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System interim report and to help flatten a potential second curve of mental ill health. The extra funding will address critical workforce shortages, support the continued roll out of suicide prevention programs and help in the continued engagement of Victorians with a lived experience of mental illness.
Download

13 May

Mental Health Australia welcomes appointment of new Deputy Chief Medical Officer for mental health
Mental Health Australia has welcomed the appointment of Associate Professor Dr Ruth Vine as Australia's first Deputy Chief Medical Officer for mental health. Mental Health Australia CEO Dr Leanne Beagley said the appointment of Dr Vine is a clear indicator of how mental health is being prioritised by all governments during the current coronavirus pandemic. 'As a former chief psychiatrist for Victoria, Dr Vine is highly regarded within the mental health sector and will be a huge asset at a national level,' said Dr Beagley.
Download

Mental health expert a crucial addition to Chief Medical Officer (CMO) team
The appointment of Associate Professor Ruth Vine as Australia's first Deputy Chief Medical Officer (CMO) for Mental Health is a smart move at a time when the significant mental health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic are becoming evident. Dr Vine is the former Chief Psychiatrist for Victoria. Australian Medical Association (AMA) President, Dr Tony Bartone, said Dr Vine brings considerable expertise and experience to this challenging role, and will be a key member of the specialist CMO team assisting Professor Brendan Murphy. Dr Bartone said that the AMA had specifically called for the Government to appoint a mental health specialist to assist Professor Murphy, and Dr Vine is a highly appropriate appointment.
Download

Long term medical neglect compounded with COVID19 causing rapidly deteriorating mental health in immigration detention
A former Manus Island detainee held for 9 months at the Government's Alternative Place of Detention (APOD) in Melbourne's Mantra hotel, suffered an incident of suicidal attempt. He was taken to hospital by ambulance and remains there. The Asylum Seeker Resource Center (ASRC), alongside the medical community and human rights organisations, has warned that keeping people in detention without independent medical oversight and care is a severe public health risk.
Download

12 May

Veterans' mental health and wellbeing at forefront of new Government strategy
Reducing the risk of suicide and improving the mental health and wellbeing of Australia's veterans and their families is at the centre of a new four-year Veteran Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy and National Action Plan. Minister for Veterans' Affairs Darren Chester said the Government was committed to putting veterans and their families first and mental health and wellbeing was a key priority, as well as ensuring they have the support they need, when and where they need it. 'Our approach to the mental health and wellbeing of veterans and their families recognises that good mental health is supported by whole of life wellbeing,' Minister Chester said.
Download

8 May

Resources and energy group launches industry-first national mental health training program
Australian Resources and Energy Group AMMA launched an industry-first online training program for psychological health and safety across resources and energy workplaces. The interactive, group-based training will benefit resources and energy employers by providing industry-specific awareness and practical tools to support workplace mental health. AMMA Director Operations Tara Diamond said the training was the Group's latest and most comprehensive initiative to assist employers in their commitment to their employees' psychological wellbeing. 'We are proud to deliver to industry a program giving employers the tools they need to ensure a mentally healthy and safe workplace for all employees,' Ms Diamond said.
Download

Return to top

Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System

None this edition.

Return to top

Pharmaceuticals

14 May

How to spot a dodgy health product ad
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) said 'Ads for health products are everywhere, but don't believe everything you read. Some ads break the law, whether it's by offering a miracle cure or advertising an unapproved medicine. Other ads just need a little extra scrutiny, such as a fad treatment promoted by a social media influencer'. The TGA said 'our tips can help you avoid dodgy health products and challenge bogus advertisements when you see them. Ads for health products must be truthful. If these ads mislead, they are illegal. This includes any claim that a medicine is 100% effective, a miracle cure, harmless or free of side effects'.
Download

Public information key to combatting rising 'superbug' threat
With predictions that drug-resistant 'superbugs' could cause up to 10 million deaths a year by 2050, a new CSIRO survey has revealed a low level of community knowledge about antibiotics. The rise of superbugs, which claimed the lives of an estimated 700,000 people globally in the past year, has been attributed to the overuse of antibiotics. To combat the growing problem, the OUTBREAK project was set up in 2019 by the University of Technology Sydney, CSIRO and other partners. In a world first, the project aims to use Artificial Intelligence to predict superbug outbreaks and stop them before they reach the health system.
Download

Vaccinating poorest half of humanity against COVID-19 could cost less than four months' big pharma profits
Vaccinating the poorest half of humanity - 3.7 billion people - against the COVID-19 coronavirus could cost less than the ten biggest pharmaceutical companies make in four months, Oxfam said. Ahead of the World Health Assembly, Oxfam is urging governments and pharmaceutical companies to guarantee that vaccines, tests, and treatments will be patent-free and equitably distributed to all nations and people. The virtual meeting on Monday 18 May will be attended by health ministers from 194 countries, including Australia. The Gates Foundation has estimated that the cost of procuring and delivering a safe and effective vaccine to the world's poorest people is $25 billion.
Download

QLD: Digital image scripts launched during Covid-19 response
Changes are being rung in as prescriptions go digital in Queensland from Friday 15 May. Queensland Deputy Premier and Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Steven Miles said the change will better align Queensland to the special arrangements recently announced by the Commonwealth Government, that allow supply of PBS medicines through a digital image. 'We have made the necessary regulatory changes so that vulnerable people can have their medicines prescribed by their usual doctor and dispensed and delivered by their usual pharmacy without having to leave their home,' Deputy Premier Miles said.
Download

13 May

MMS Australia fined $151,200 for alleged unlawful advertising, including claims relating to COVID-19
The TGA has issued twelve infringement notices totalling $151,200 for the alleged unlawful advertising of Miracle Mineral Supplement (also referred to as Miracle Mineral Solution) (MMS) and other medicines by Southern Cross Directories Pty Ltd trading as MMS Australia. There is no clinical, scientifically-accepted evidence showing that MMS can cure or alleviate any disease. The use of MMS presents serious health risks, and can result in nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and severe dehydration, which in some cases can result in hospitalisation.
Download

Blackmores Professional Duo Celloids S.C.F. tablets
Consumers and health professionals are advised that Fit-BioCeuticals, in consultation with the TGA, is recalling all current batches of Blackmores Professional Duo Celloids S.C.F. tablets due to the potential for contamination with mould. Blackmores Professional Duo Celloids S.C.F. is a complementary medicine that people use as it may assist bone formation. Affected batch numbers are: 292798, 294442, 295592, 296051, 297013, 298225, 298013 and 296052. The product has been identified as having a microbial mould growth on the tableted product which appears to be developing after some time in storage. The mould has been identified as a strain of Penicillium species. This is visible to the naked eye as black or brown patchy spots.
Download

End of pre-approval process for ads in specified media
From 1 July 2020, medicine advertisements in specified media do not need pre-approval from the TGA. The TGA will continue to regulate the advertising of therapeutic goods, and advertisers must still meet the requirements under the therapeutic goods legislation, including the Therapeutic Goods Advertising Code. Until 30 June 2020, advertisers must seek pre-approval under the Therapeutic Goods Regulations 1990 for ads about medicines that will be broadcast or published in 'specified media'. Specified media includes:
- magazines
- newspapers
- newsletters
- catalogues
- cinema advertising
Download

If you have any issues viewing this e-mail, please contact LexisNexis Capital Monitor on 02 6100 0801 or help@capmon.com

Subscribe | Unsubscribe | Privacy Statement | Contact Us | Twitter | Linkedin

© 2020 LexisNexis Capital Monitor

COPYRIGHT WARNING: This Newsletter is protected by copyright and may not be reproduced, copied or redistributed, in part or in whole, without the express permission of LexisNexis Capital Monitor.

WARNING - This email is confidential and may contain copyright material. If you are not the intended recipient of LexisNexis Capital Monitor original e-mail, please notify by return e-mail, delete your copy of the message, and accept our apologies for any inconvenience caused. Republication or re-dissemination, including posting to news groups or web pages, is strictly prohibited without the express prior consent of LexisNexis Capital Monitor.  2020 Reed International Books Australia Pty Ltd  (ABN 70 001 002 357) trading as LexisNexis. LexisNexis and the Knowledge Burst logo are registered trademarks of Reed Elsevier Properties Inc., and used under license.