This Newsletter covers Federal and State policy and legislative developments in the area of health. Copies of documents referred to can be obtained by clicking on the reference in this Newsletter or through Capital Monitor's collection at www.capitalmonitor.com.au or from the source quoted.

Major Announcements

Coronavirus (COVID-19)

21 July

NT: NT Health urges Territorians to remain COVID safe this long weekend, as cases continue to rise in the NT
NT Health is urging Territorians to remain vigilant as COVID-19 cases continue to rise ahead of the Darwin Show long weekend. COVID-19 cases have increased rapidly over the last few days in the Territory and they are seeing a rise in hospital admissions in the Top End Region, particularly at Royal Darwin Hospital. There were 642 new cases of COVID-19 recorded in the NT in the 24 hours to 4pm on 19 July 2022, bringing the active case numbers to 3,510. There are currently 68 patients in hospital in the Northern Territory, including 58 in Royal Darwin Hospital.
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WA: COVID-19 update 21 July 2022
WA Health is reporting a total of 6,960 new cases to 6pm July 20th. There are currently 36,886 active cases in Western Australia. To 6pm July 20th, there were 459 people with COVID-19 in hospital, 22 in ICU. Sadly, this report includes seven deaths, dating back to June 28, which were reported to WA Health - three women in their 90s, a woman in her 80s and three men in their 80s.
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20 July

ACTU Executive calls on employers to do more as Covid cases surpass peak
A meeting of the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) Executive has heard from health and social care unions about the unsustainable pressure being placed on the healthcare system by the current Covid wave and has passed a resolution calling on employers to honour their obligation to ensure all workplaces are safe for workers. 5200 hospitalisations were reported, close to the peak of the pandemic so far, and Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly confirmed that Covid case numbers will soon surpass all previous peaks. Employers have a legal obligation to consult and cooperate with workers about making work safe.
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It's time to mandate masks again!
The Rural Doctors Association of Australia (RDAA) is calling on Australia's governments to again make mask use mandatory in all public settings, as COVID cases increase substantially with the onset of winter and hospitals come under significant pressure. RDAA President, Dr Megan Belot, said that with cases jumping nationally - but only a small proportion of Australians choosing to wear masks when out and about - it is critical to mandate mask-wearing urgently to slow the spread of the virus. 'Wearing a mask is such a simple and cost-effective thing to do, yet most Australians have been reluctant to do so without governments making it a requirement' Dr Belot said.
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TAS: Coronavirus update
'Tasmania has recorded 1,586 new cases overnight. The total number of active cases currently stands at 9,717 and we now have more than 207,000 Tasmanians who have recovered from COVID-19. There are currently 49 people in hospital being treated specifically for COVID. Sadly, I can confirm two women have passed away this week: a woman in her late 90s has passed away in the South and a woman in her late 70s has passed away in the North. It has also been reported that a man in his 50s passed away with COVID in the states North on the 6th April 2022,' said TAS Acting Minister for Health Michael Ferguson.
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WA: COVID-19 update 20 July 2022
WA Health is reporting a total of 7,901 new cases to 6pm July 19th. There are currently 37,244 active cases in Western Australia. To 6pm July 19th, there were 457 people with COVID-19 in hospital, 22 in ICU. Sadly, the report includes two deaths, which were reported to WA Health - a man in his 80s and a man in his 70s.
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19 July

Strengthening the first line of defence against COVID-19 in aged care
Minister for Aged Care Anika Wells met with more than 1000 aged care providers to emphasise the importance of remaining proactive in the face of the winter COVID-19 wave. 'The last two years have been really tough - especially for the aged care sector, for frontline workers and managers, and for residents and their families,' Minister Wells said. 'During the height of January's wave a provider told me they felt like they were fighting a war, and I can think of dozens who have said something similar in recent weeks,' said Minister Wells.
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COVID-19 update from the Chief Medical Officer, Professor Paul Kelly
Australia's Chief Medical Officer, Professor Paul Kelly has made a statement regarding the increase in cases of the new BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants of the COVID-19 Omicron strain, said the Department of Health & Aged Care. Australia is experiencing a significant increase in cases of the new BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants of the COVID-19 Omicron strain. These variants are highly infectious and have an ability to evade the immune protection from either previous infection or vaccine. Although three or four doses of vaccine remain very effective at providing protection against severe disease from BA.4 and BA.5, vaccination alone is not effective at stopping infection or transmission.
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ATAGI update following weekly COVID-19 meeting - 13 July 2022
On Wednesday 13 July 2022, ATAGI met to consider the latest developments relating to COVID-19 immunisation. As of 11 July 2022, over 60 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered in Australia, said the Department of Health & Aged Care. ATAGI have continued reviewing data on the impact of COVID-19 vaccination on children aged 6 months to 4 years, including the burden of disease in this age group in both Australian and international contexts. ATAGI notes there is now a difference between the interval that defines re-infection (4 weeks) and the recommended minimum interval between infection and subsequent vaccine doses (3 months).
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ATAGI update following weekly COVID-19 meeting - 6 July 2022
On Wednesday 6 July 2022, ATAGI met to consider the latest developments relating to COVID-19 immunisation, said the Department of Health & Aged Care. As of 6 July 2022, over 60 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered in Australia. ATAGI reviewed epidemiology, modelling, vaccine protection, and disease severity in healthy people aged 16 to 64 years (not currently recommended to receive an additional booster dose). As a result of this review, ATAGI recommended:
- All adults aged 50 years or older to receive a 4th dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.
- The interval between recent SARS-CoV-2 infection or the first booster dose and a winter dose is now 3 months.
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TGA provisionally approves Moderna COVID-19 vaccine (SPIKEVAX) for use in children from 6 months
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has provisionally approved a paediatric dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, SPIKEVAX, for use in individuals aged 6 months to less than 6 years (6 months to 5 years). Currently this mRNA vaccine is provisionally approved for immunisation to prevent COVID- 19 in individuals aged 6 years and older (primary series of 2 doses administered at least 28 days apart), and as a booster dose for adults aged 18 years and older. As seen with children in older age groups, the TGA expects that vaccines for younger children will provide protection from the most severe outcomes of COVID-19.
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8 million COVID-19 vaccinations delivered through community pharmacies
The rise in COVID-19 cases has seen a surge in patients visiting their community pharmacies for their vaccinations, with the sector delivering its 8 millionth dose after being brought into the national vaccination rollout in July last year. Acting National President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Nick Panayiaris, said the milestone of 8 million doses of COVID-19 vaccinations being administered through community pharmacies highlighted the pivotal role pharmacies have played, and are continuing to play, in helping manage the pandemic. 'The dedication and commitment of community pharmacists and their staff has helped to vaccinate millions of Australians across the country,' Mr Panayiaris said.
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18 July

RACGP welcomes new Melbourne GP respiratory clinics
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has welcomed the Victorian Government stepping up measures to fight COVID-19 community transmission and ensure patients can access the care they need. It comes following Premier Daniel Andrews announcing that two paediatric GP respiratory clinics will be established at the Royal Children's and Monash Children's hospitals to prevent children from having to go to a hospital emergency department if they are suffering respiratory symptoms typical of COVID-19, influenza, asthma or hayfever. The Government also announced a $162 million package to recruit around 400 additional staff for 12 major hospitals across Victoria to combat staff shortages.
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COVID response a timely intervention to bring down case numbers
The Consumers Health Forum (CHF) welcomes the reinstatement of the COVID-19 Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment, expedited by the decision of National Cabinet at an emergency meeting. The wave of COVID-19 cases is reaching worrying numbers and medical experts are estimating a new peak in August. With the prevalence of new variants and the period of immunity decreasing, urgent action is needed to alleviate the impact of the pandemic on the wider community. CHF CEO, Leanne Wells said that continuing the payment until 30 September will allow people who don't have access to sick leave to isolate at home safely with confidence that they will still receive financial support.
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Pandemic support welcome
The St Vincent de Paul Society in Australia welcomes the Government's decision to extend the pandemic leave disaster payment and the one-off COVID-19 crisis payment for people experiencing financial hardship as new variants take hold across Australia. 'These are caring and sensible decisions that will ensure vulnerable Australian workers and income support recipients can do the right thing and isolate for a full week after a positive diagnosis for COVID-19,' National President Claire Victory said. The Society also welcomes the introduction of a new, temporary telehealth item for COVID-19 anti- viral management to allow GPs to spend more time with patients to evaluate their suitability for oral COVID-19 antivirals.
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NSW: People with disability urged to get booster
18 JUL: With a new wave of COVID-19 cases continuing to increase across the state, people with disability are encouraged to get the latest COVID-19 vaccine booster dose. Minister for Families and Communities and NSW Minister for Disability Services Natasha Maclaren-Jones said people with disability can be more vulnerable to the harmful effects of COVID-19. 'Protecting people with disability is vital as they can be at greater risk of developing serious illness if they become infected,' Mrs Maclaren-Jones said. 'Vaccination is readily available at GPs and pharmacies and we are urging everyone to book in without delay.'
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TAS: Coronavirus Update 18 July
Tasmania has recorded 1,411 new cases. The total number of active cases currently stands at 10,178 and Tasmanians now have more than 204,000. Tasmanians who have recovered from COVID-19. There are currently 44 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,' said Tasmanian Acting Premier and Minister for Health Michael Ferguson. 'Sadly, I can confirm three males in their 70s and a female in her 90s have passed away.'
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VIC: Backing paramedics to get patients the care they need sooner
The Victorian Government is delivering another boost into Victoria's health system, as part of a comprehensive plan to make sure patients are getting the quality care they need while there is record demand on the national health system. As a challenging flu season and the emergence of the Omicron BA.5 variant causes a rise in hospitalisations across Australia, the Victorian Government is delivering more support for healthcare workers, as part of an ongoing plan to reinforce health services through winter and beyond, said Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and Victorian Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Mary-Anne Thomas.
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WA: COVID-19 update 18 July 2022
WA Health is reporting a total of 5,514 new cases. There are currently 36,630 active cases in Western Australia. There were 411 people with COVID-19 in hospital, 19 in ICU. Sadly, the report includes two deaths, which were reported to WA Health - a woman in her 80s and a man in his 90s. Of the 5,514 cases, 1,577 were confirmed via PCR test, the remaining 3,973 were self- reported positive rapid antigen tests. A total of 5,387 PCR tests were conducted at either state-run or private pathology clinics. WA has recorded 1,003,678 cases since the COVID-19 pandemic began.
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17 July

VIC: Supporting healthcare workers to deliver care
The Victorian Government is delivering another unprecedented investment into Victoria's health system, making sure patients are getting the quality care they need during periods of record demand and increasing COVID and flu hospitalisations, and giving healthcare workers the helping hand they need. As a challenging flu season and the emergence of the Omicron BA.5 variant causes a rise in hospitalisations and unwell healthcare workers across Australia, the Victorian Government is delivering more support to make sure patients are getting the emergency healthcare they need sooner, said Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and Victorian Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Mary-Anne Thomas.
Download

16 July

Meeting of National Cabinet
'The National Cabinet met virtually to discuss the evolving situation with the COVID-19 pandemic and agreed several new measures,' said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. 'The Commonwealth and all States and Territories remain committed to working together collaboratively to support the COVID-19 health response, as Australians continue to manage the impacts of this pandemic. Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly provided an update on the pandemic, including new variants and their potential impact, and the impacts on hospital capacity and broader health system. Australia is beginning to see a new wave of COVID-19 infections driven by the BA.4 and BA.5 Omicron sub variants, which will increase the pressure on our health system.'
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COVID antivirals available by telehealth phone consultation
The new temporary MBS items will cover a longer consultation by phone to ensure antivirals are safely prescribed by doctors and ensure as many people as possible can access these treatments. Millions of Australians are now eligible to access antivirals on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), but they need to start taking the medication within five days of symptoms. Following a COVID-19 positive diagnosis, eligible people can have a telephone or video consultation with a doctor to obtain a prescription for antivirals, said Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler.
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Prime Minister backs workers by restoring COVID sick leave
Prime Minister Albanese has made the right and very welcome decision to protect workers by restoring the $750 Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment. There was 776,000 people who missed work in June due to sickness, and as new variants emerge that number is expected to grow alongside reinfection. It's not just casual workers who will benefit from this leave being restored, but hundreds of thousands of workers who have run out of sick leave. Bringing back support payments also ensures that businesses can remain open, and the economy can continue to recover, said the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU).
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AMA welcomes new telehealth item but more to be done
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) welcomed the Federal Government's decision to implement a new telehealth item for COVID anti-viral management and to reinstate pandemic leave but said much more is needed to avoid negative health outcomes in the current COVID wave. AMA President Dr Omar Khorshid said while the new telehealth item was welcome there were many other telephone Medicare items dropped by the Government on 1 July which had left vulnerable people at risk. 'It is pleasing to see that the government is listening to medical and community concerns regarding these important COVID related measures.'
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ANMF welcomes reinstatement of COVID disaster payments
The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF), has welcomed the Federal Government's reinstatement of $750 COVID leave disaster payments for essential workers through the latest 'winter wave' of the pandemic. Prime Minister Albanese made the decision during a meeting of National Cabinet, following ongoing calls from the ANMF and its members for the emergency payments to be restored to support vulnerable workers. ANMF Federal Secretary Annie Butler said the reinstatement of disaster payments would allow the most vulnerable workers, without leave entitlements, to follow public orders and isolate if they contract COVID or need to care for others with the virus.
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Pandemic payments extension welcome
The decision to extend pandemic leave payments is a common sense step forward, Business Council chief executive Jennifer Westacott said. 'While government mandated isolation rules are in place, it makes sense to keep carefully targeted support that ensures those who are infectious can do the right thing and stay home. It's no surprise that living alongside the virus means more cases, what matters is how well we protect the vulnerable and keep the health system functioning by slowing the spread. That means removing the disincentives that stop people taking appropriate action when unwell, driving up transmission and case numbers.'
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RACGP welcomes temporary reprieve on telehealth but warns greater action needed
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has welcomed a temporary reprieve for some telehealth consultations but urged the Government to go even further in securing the future of telehealth services so that no patients are left behind. It comes following an emergency meeting of National Cabinet as COVID-19 case numbers soar across Australia. On 1 July this year, the Government removed Medicare rebates for telephone consultations lasting longer than 20 minutes, a decision the RACGP warned was particularly detrimental for vulnerable patient groups.
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ACT: Statement on National Cabinet Meeting
The National Cabinet met to determine the next phase of Australia's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The latest COVID variant is driving this winter surge in case numbers, combined with the seasonal flu and other respiratory illnesses, it is placing pressure on the health system in every state and territory. The National Cabinet encourages Australians to be mindful of how they can reduce the burden the pandemic is placing on sections of the community. Right now, the objective is to flatten the curve as much as possible, said ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr.
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NT: Temporary update to hospital visitation due to COVID-19 increase
NT Health has temporarily updated its hospital visiting hours and requirements following an increase in COVID-19 cases in the Northern Territory. The update to hospital visitation has been made in line with NT Health's COVID-19 management plan and allows for increased infection prevention control to protect patients and staff. NT Health understands there are circumstances where visits from families and carers are particularly important. In these circumstances, families are granted an exemption. This includes, but is not limited to, end of life support for a patient, the partner or support person of a pregnant woman or patient in the maternity ward, and the carer of a patient with a disability.
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15 July

Supports are necessary as COVID cases soar
Consumers Health Forum of Australia (CHF) is urging all political leaders and the Federal Government to respond to calls for COVID emergency measures to be continued over winter. The CHF CEO, Leanne Wells said that while these supports were temporary, the surge in COVID cases is cause for extending critical assistance. 'It is concerning that three measures that are effective in slowing COVID transmission in vulnerable communities have been discontinued,' said Ms Wells.
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COVID isolation payments and free RATs must urgently be extended
Greens Leader Adam Bandt has urged the Federal Government to extend Pandemic Leave Disaster Payments and free RATs beyond July at the snap National Cabinet meeting. Greens spokesperson for Community Services Senator Janet Rice: 'This is the wrong time for the government to end Pandemic Leave Disaster Payments and free RATs. The risk of infection at work is going to spiral out of control. We call on the government to change their minds, and in the meantime you can help reduce the risk by masking up and getting boosted.'
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Aged Care

19 July

Strengthening the first line of defence against COVID-19 in aged care
Minister for Aged Care Anika Wells met with more than 1000 aged care providers to emphasise the importance of remaining proactive in the face of the winter COVID-19 wave. 'The last two years have been really tough - especially for the aged care sector, for frontline workers and managers, and for residents and their families,' Minister Wells said. 'During the height of January's wave a provider told me they felt like they were fighting a war, and I can think of dozens who have said something similar in recent weeks,' said Minister Wells.
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VIC: Shaping the lives of Victorian seniors to live well
Senior Victorians are being invited to have their say and help shape government services, with the opening of Australia's largest research project of its kind examining their experiences. Victorian Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Colin Brooks has launched the Ageing Well Survey alongside Commissioner for Senior Victorians Gerard Mansour, who will oversee this important piece of community consultation. This year's survey invites senior Victorians to have their say on a range of issues including wellbeing, ageism, digital inclusion, social connectedness, health and self-care. Participants can also share their experience of the pandemic and the support they need to re-connect and participate in the community.
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18 July

Louise O'Neill steps down; Sarah McLelland appointed interim CEO
Aged Care Workers Industry Council (ACWIC) CEO, Louise O'Neill, has advised the ACWIC Board of her decision to resign her position due to personal reasons. As a result, ACWIC Executive Director of Policy and Engagement, Sarah McLelland, has been appointed to the role of Interim CEO, effective immediately. Sarah is a highly-regarded public servant with more than 15 years' experience across aged- care, disability and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health. She acted as interim CEO earlier this year. Ms O'Neill joined ACWIC in July 2020 to lead the organisation's implementation of 14 strategic actions emanating from Australia's Aged Care Workforce Strategy 'A Matter of Care'.
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Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety

None this edition.

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Allied Health

19 July

ACT: Australia's first fixed-site health and drug checking service opens
The ACT Government has launched Australia's first fixed-site health and drug checking service in Canberra as a six-month pilot. CanTEST Health and Drug Checking Service will be run by Directions Health Services in partnership with Pill Testing Australia and Canberra Alliance for Harm Minimisation and Advocacy. The service will provide chemical analysis of drugs and pills as well as drop-in nurse consultations offering general health, sexual health and mental health advice. ACT Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said the pilot is part of the ACT Government's commitment to reducing the harm caused by drugs through effective evidence-based health interventions.
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Children's Health

None this edition.

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Clinical Governance

21 July

WHO confirms refugee and migrant health needs urgent attention
The World Health Organization (WHO) report on the health of refugees and migrants confirms that migration and displacement are key determinants of a person's health and wellbeing, and often leads to poorer health outcomes. 'The report confirms our experience in Australia that government services are often not responsive to the many complex needs of migrant and refugee communities, and this requires urgent attention,' said Mohammad Al-Khafaji, CEO of the Federation of Ethnic Communities' Councils of Australia (FECCA) and Co- Chair of the Australian Multicultural Health Collaborative (AMHC).
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Construction and Health Infrastructure

None this edition.

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Dental

None this edition.

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Disabilities

20 July

Victoria in Focus
'Times continue to be challenging for disability services, as we all face the latest wave of COVID infections impacting our community, and the continuing workforce shortages. While we are experiencing a surge in case numbers and rising hospital admissions adding strain to a fatigued health system, governments are adopting a position of 'personal responsibility'. After two-and-a- half years, we know the drill. However, the inequities that were exposed during the pandemic still exist, and there are significant risks to the disability sector. We welcome the National Cabinet's decision to continue support payments for casual workers,' said the National Disability Service (NDIS).
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18 July

Chair of NDIA Board resigns
'I have received the resignation of The Hon. Dr Denis Napthine AO as Chair of the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) Board,' said Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme Bill Shorten. 'I wish to thank Dr Napthine for his service as Chair of the NDIA Board since April 2022. I also wish to acknowledge his work in reaching agreement with the Gillard Labor Government to establish the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in Victoria. Dr Napthine is a committed advocate for the NDIS and as a carer and somebody who has worked in the disability area, he has a great deal of passion for NDIS participants and their families.'
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Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability

14 July

Transcript of proceedings - Public hearing 25, Day 4
Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect & Exploitation of People with Disability
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13 July

Transcript of proceedings - Public hearing 25, Day 3
Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect & Exploitation of People with Disability
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12 July

Transcript of proceedings - Public hearing 25, Day 2
Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect & Exploitation of People with Disability
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E-Health

21 July

Health agency's $27 million Global Switch exit running late
The Australian Digital Health Agency's mandated move out of a Chinese owned data centre cost more than $27 million and is running late, missing the government's deadline for a new data sovereignty scheme this month. The health agency confirmed it was yet to finish decommissioning its hardware in the Global Switch Ultimo (GSU) facility in Sydney, but completed its migration of sensitive data earlier this month, around a week after the deadline. The Australian Digital Health Agency (ADHA) is one of four agencies which agreed to exit the GSU by the end of last month under a Home Affairs Affairs-led $115 million 'securing sovereign data' project.
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18 July

WA: Health Hackathon to help drive innovation in healthcare sector
Digitisation and the adoption of data-driven technologies in healthcare can play a key role in helping to improve processes and systems within the sector. The WA Data Science Innovation Hub (WADSIH) is hosting the WA Health Hackathon (August 8 to 18, 2022) for its second consecutive year with the aim of developing innovative, digital healthcare solutions. WA Minister for Medical Research Stephen Dawson said the WA Health Hackathon brings together data professionals, digital specialists, innovators and students to work together to discuss and develop ideas to enhance healthcare outcomes.
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16 July

COVID antivirals available by telehealth phone consultation
The new temporary MBS items will cover a longer consultation by phone to ensure antivirals are safely prescribed by doctors and ensure as many people as possible can access these treatments. Millions of Australians are now eligible to access antivirals on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), but they need to start taking the medication within five days of symptoms. Following a COVID-19 positive diagnosis, eligible people can have a telephone or video consultation with a doctor to obtain a prescription for antivirals, said Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler.
Download

AMA welcomes new telehealth item but more to be done
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) welcomed the Federal Government's decision to implement a new telehealth item for COVID anti-viral management and to reinstate pandemic leave but said much more is needed to avoid negative health outcomes in the current COVID wave. AMA President Dr Omar Khorshid said while the new telehealth item was welcome there were many other telephone Medicare items dropped by the Government on 1 July which had left vulnerable people at risk. 'It is pleasing to see that the government is listening to medical and community concerns regarding these important COVID related measures.'
Download

RACGP welcomes temporary reprieve on telehealth but warns greater action needed
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has welcomed a temporary reprieve for some telehealth consultations but urged the Government to go even further in securing the future of telehealth services so that no patients are left behind. It comes following an emergency meeting of National Cabinet as COVID-19 case numbers soar across Australia. On 1 July this year, the Government removed Medicare rebates for telephone consultations lasting longer than 20 minutes, a decision the RACGP warned was particularly detrimental for vulnerable patient groups.
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Education and Training

None this edition.

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Funding

20 July

2022 Supporting people with cancer Grant initiative - Announcement of grant recipients
Support for people with cancer through the new Cancer Australia grant round Cancer Australia has announced the 2022 recipients of its Supporting people with cancer (SPWC) Grant initiative, established to support community initiatives to improve wellbeing and outcomes of people with cancer. Over one million dollars was awarded to nine community organisations and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations to support people affected by cancer. The recipients are: Strong Spirit Aboriginal Services, Viney Morgan Aboriginal Medical Service, Cancer Council of the Northern Territory, Canteen Australia, The Abbie Basson Sarcoma Foundation Ltd, Reflections Through Reality Ltd (Reflections), Children's Leukaemia and Cancer Research Foundation, St John Ambulance Tasmania Inc and Redkite.
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18 July

VIC: Backing paramedics to get patients the care they need sooner
The Victorian Government is delivering another boost into Victoria's health system, as part of a comprehensive plan to make sure patients are getting the quality care they need while there is record demand on the national health system. As a challenging flu season and the emergence of the Omicron BA.5 variant causes a rise in hospitalisations across Australia, the Victorian Government is delivering more support for healthcare workers, as part of an ongoing plan to reinforce health services through winter and beyond, said Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and Victorian Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Mary-Anne Thomas.
Download

17 July

VIC: Supporting healthcare workers to deliver care
The Victorian Government is delivering another unprecedented investment into Victoria's health system, making sure patients are getting the quality care they need during periods of record demand and increasing COVID and flu hospitalisations, and giving healthcare workers the helping hand they need. As a challenging flu season and the emergence of the Omicron BA.5 variant causes a rise in hospitalisations and unwell healthcare workers across Australia, the Victorian Government is delivering more support to make sure patients are getting the emergency healthcare they need sooner, said Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and Victorian Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Mary-Anne Thomas.
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Health Professionals

21 July

Delivering more GPs for areas in need
The Government is delivering on one of its core election commitments to make it easier for thousands of Australians in outer suburbs and regions to see a GP. Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler said 'The previous government neglected our hardworking GPs for more than a decade, with regional Australia suffering the most from their inaction.' Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health Emma McBride said 'As a pharmacist of 20 years and a local MP, I understand the importance of quality health care close to home.'
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18 July

RACGP leaders meeting GPs in Alice Springs to tackle workforce concerns
Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) leaders are visiting Alice Springs to meet with local GPs and discuss how to address the Territory's GP shortage and improve patient health outcomes. RACGP President Adj. Professor Karen Price and faculty Chairs will meet GP members on Monday 18th July, 2022 at an anniversary function celebrating 30 years of the RACGP's Rural Faculty. The RACGP President said access to GP care was a serious concern for communities in the Northern Territory. 'The GP shortage is an issue right across Australia, and it's particularly bad for many rural and remote communities in the Northern Territory,' she said.
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VIC: Backing paramedics to get patients the care they need sooner
The Victorian Government is delivering another boost into Victoria's health system, as part of a comprehensive plan to make sure patients are getting the quality care they need while there is record demand on the national health system. As a challenging flu season and the emergence of the Omicron BA.5 variant causes a rise in hospitalisations across Australia, the Victorian Government is delivering more support for healthcare workers, as part of an ongoing plan to reinforce health services through winter and beyond, said Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and Victorian Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Mary-Anne Thomas.
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17 July

VIC: Supporting healthcare workers to deliver care
The Victorian Government is delivering another unprecedented investment into Victoria's health system, making sure patients are getting the quality care they need during periods of record demand and increasing COVID and flu hospitalisations, and giving healthcare workers the helping hand they need. As a challenging flu season and the emergence of the Omicron BA.5 variant causes a rise in hospitalisations and unwell healthcare workers across Australia, the Victorian Government is delivering more support to make sure patients are getting the emergency healthcare they need sooner, said Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and Victorian Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Mary-Anne Thomas.
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Hospitals

20 July

VIC: Better regional healthcare with a redevelopment of St Arnaud Hospital
'St Arnaud Hospital has long been in desperate need of an upgrade, and a Matthew Guy Liberals and Nationals Government will deliver $30 million toward stage one of its redevelopment,' said Victorian Leader of the Opposition Matthew Guy and State Member for Ripon Louise Staley. The original two-storey main hospital building was built in 1934, and there are significant issues of an outdated facility that require urgent attention. The upgrade will include the construction of a brand-new main building to the west of the site, which will also have the capacity for home aged care residents whose current facility is no longer fit for purpose.
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18 July

QLD: $86.2 million Nambour General Hospital redevelopment on track
Nambour locals are already seeing the benefits of the Government's $86.2 million Nambour General Hospital redevelopment. QLD Minister for Health Yvette D'Ath, who is visiting the hospital as part of the Government's Nambour Community Cabinet, said the redevelopment would almost double the number of hospital beds from 137 to 255 by 2023. 'Nambour General Hospital has been part of the local community since the 1920s, and with this redevelopment it will continue to care for locals for decades to come,' the Minister said. 'The redevelopment marks $86.2 million worth of investment which will bring an extra 118 beds online next year.'
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15 July

WA: Day hospice offers respite and care to patients with life-limiting illness
A new day hospice has opened at Kalamunda Hospital, offering palliative care patients and their carers crucial respite and support for their physical, emotional and social needs said WA Minister for Health Amber-Jade Sanderson. Based on a model of therapeutic care combined with social support, the hospice is open to patients who are being cared for at home but could benefit from additional support, as they manage a life-limiting illness. The refurbished day hospice incorporates therapy rooms, an outpatient room, new toilets, a cafe-style kitchenette and a social room, which opens up to the native garden and surrounding Darling Scarp.
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Insurance

None this edition.

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Medicare

16 July

AMA welcomes new telehealth item but more to be done
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) welcomed the Federal Government's decision to implement a new telehealth item for COVID anti-viral management and to reinstate pandemic leave but said much more is needed to avoid negative health outcomes in the current COVID wave. AMA President Dr Omar Khorshid said while the new telehealth item was welcome there were many other telephone Medicare items dropped by the Government on 1 July which had left vulnerable people at risk. 'It is pleasing to see that the government is listening to medical and community concerns regarding these important COVID related measures.'
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RACGP welcomes temporary reprieve on telehealth but warns greater action needed
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has welcomed a temporary reprieve for some telehealth consultations but urged the Government to go even further in securing the future of telehealth services so that no patients are left behind. It comes following an emergency meeting of National Cabinet as COVID-19 case numbers soar across Australia. On 1 July this year, the Government removed Medicare rebates for telephone consultations lasting longer than 20 minutes, a decision the RACGP warned was particularly detrimental for vulnerable patient groups.
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Men's Health

None this edition.

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Mental Health

21 July

Coming together to offer over the fence mental health support
Farmers across Australia are under constant pressure to build successful businesses and respond to unpredictable environmental threats all while navigating physical and emotional isolation and fatigue. With resources and awareness improving, this Farm Safety Week Farmsafe Australia are reminding Australian farmers to put their mental health first. David Jochinke, Vice President of National Farmers Federation, said empowering farmers to discuss mental health is integral to ensuring stigma is eliminated in farming communities. 'Farming can be a lonely game so ensuring that we are checking in on each other and asking those gentle probing questions to check in is so important to combat the black dog,' said Mr Jochinke.
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Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System

None this edition.

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Pharmaceuticals and Regulation

21 July

Shortage of iodinated contrast media (contrast) diagnostic agents
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists are aware of a global shortage of iodinated contrast media (contrast) diagnostic agents. The TGA recommends urgent conservation of stock until the shortage is resolved as current supply is very limited. Non-ionic contrast agent is used to enhance imaging in a wide range of diagnostic procedures in adults and children. GE Healthcare, the sponsor of Omnipaque (iohexol) and Visipaque (iodixanol), has notified the TGA of a shortage of all presentations of these products due to reduced manufacturing capacity and freight delays caused by the recent unexpected COVID-19 lockdown in Shanghai, China.
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Premier must consult with NQ community on pharmacy trial
Australian Medical Association (AMA) President Dr Omar Khorshid called on Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Health Minister Yvette D'Ath to visit First Nations communities in North Queensland before imposing their dangerous pharmacy prescribing experiment on them. Dr Khorshid said it is disgraceful that the Premier and the Health Minister have failed to consult with communities about the proposal to allow pharmacists to undertake the equivalent of three weeks of online training to do the work of GPs. 'Under the North Queensland experiment, pharmacists will be allowed to diagnose, treat, prescribe and sell medications for 23 serious conditions including asthma, diabetes and lung disease without any medical training or oversight,' Dr Khorshid said.
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20 July

Person fined $31,698 for alleged unlawful advertising of disposable nicotine vaping products
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has issued 12 infringement notices totalling $31,698 to a NSW based individual for alleged unlawful advertising of disposable nicotine vaping products on several websites. The TGA identified the non-compliant advertising on two websites allegedly operated by the individual and provided them with guidance about their legal obligations. Despite that, it is alleged that the individual attempted to evade responsibility by closing the original websites and publishing further advertising on two new websites. The individual allegedly advertised and had available for sale nearly 100 nicotine vaping products across at least four websites and two social media pages.
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TGA decision on children's vaccination welcomed, but national uniformity needed
The decision by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) to provisionally approve the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, SPIKEVAX, for use in children aged from six months to five years has been welcomed by the Pharmacy Guild of Australia The Acting National President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Nick Panayiaris, said the TGA decision was good news for patients and families of the demonstrated safety and effectiveness of the vaccine. 'Enabling children aged from six months to five years to receive a paediatric dose of the SPIKEVAX vaccine adds to the range of people now able to be protected,' Mr Panayiaris said.
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15 July

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