Department of Health – Primary Health Care COVID-19 Response Teleconference 8 October  2021 – Meeting notes from Dr Maria Boulton

The Primary Care Implementation Group (PCIG) is an online meeting that includes most primary healthcare peak bodies. It is convened weekly by the Department of Health as part of the COVID-19 response. Dr Maria Boulton attends on behalf of the AGPA.

General Meeting Notes

•  GP clinics are rapidly achieving COVID vaccine milestones.
• AHPPC have approved and released an update on mandatory vaccination for health care workers.
  • First dose by 30^th October, second by 15^th of Dec.
  • Recommended for all workers in health care settings as a condition of their work.
  • The AHPPC statement is here.  

Questions from AGPA

• • Some of our members are actively caring for patients with COVID. Some patients are calling their GPs 2-3 times a day for medical care. GPs need extra funding to care for COVID positive patients in the community.
    Is there an update in the SWPE/PIP issue re-counting telehealth consults?
    
    Response: the Commonwealth is actively looking on how to support General Practice provide care for COVID positive patients in the community and part of that is looking at the SWPE/PIP issue.  
•  

• Comments from other attendees

• Some transient populations are having problems accessing proof of COVID vaccination.  The waiting period is 2-4 weeks if certificates are mailed out.
  Response: The Taskforce would like to be contacted with suggestions on how this process can be made easier/quicker.
  
  
• What can be done to increase support for rural and remote communities where the workforce is already stretched when COVID cases start presenting? A plea to increase vaccine delivery to rural and remote communities to reduce the load.
  Response: There is  an emphasis on media messages that are rurally focused.
  
  
•  Is there any update on booster doses?
  Response: ATAGI advise regarding  on third doses for immunocompromised people is expected shortly.  There will be a list on conditions that apply.
  ATAGI will also advise on boosters for everyone else.
  
  
• How will the AHPCC recommendations on mandatory vaccination for health care workers in health care settings play out in practice?
  Response:  The application of the mandate is an issue for the  States/Territories.