Department of Health – Primary Health Care COVID-19 Response Teleconference 2 March 2022 – 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.

Updates from the Taskforce:

-PBS listing of Molnupiravir-available through wholesalers  is in effect (max 24 hour deliver to pharmacies), some pharmacies may have it available on site too.

Check guidelines, there are other COVID treatments available which may be more appropriate.

-Pfizer has not put Paxlovid forward for PBS listing

-ATAGI announcement-Novavax can be used as a booster for 18 year olds and older.  Announcement form Min Health Hon Greg Hunt is here  ATAGI update is here

-PPE delivery-some delays in flood affected regions

-Updates on vaccine training modules that reflect ATAGI announcement re-Novavax

-ATAGI now uses “up to date” instead of “fully vaccinated”

-Work ongoing on reminding people to stay up to date with the health screens-Cancer Australia Website

-Everyone providing support to their communities during these times were acknowledged.  

AGPA comment:

-Some GP clinics and pharmacies have been flooded, road access has been cut. Some families did not evacuate because they thought they couldn’t go to evacuation centres due to having COVID, messaging needs to change in this area.

We are seeing a lot of people now cleaning up going into the mud and water without protective gear-long pants, shoes, etc.

We are concerned that there will be outbreaks of gastroenteritis and skin infections.

The public messaging needs to change.

Response: if  GPs in these flooded areas need assistance contact the “Living with COVID team (Chris Bedford)” who are providing some support.