Coronavirus

Last updated 11.26am, 15 April, 2021

Current Situation
COVID-19 Vaccine
Masks
COVID-19 Testing
Infection control advice
Home isolation
Telehealth MBS Items
- Healthdirect Video Call Service
Immunisation
Resources for general practice
- Health Pathways
- Education: videos and webinars
Allied Health Professionals
Aged Care providers
Resources for community providers
Community information including COVID-19 Vaccine
Useful Links
Business Support
Further questions

Current situation

Snapshot

NSW daily updated information: NSW Health

NSW Testing criteria: Testing Advice

AHPPC: Latest Statements

MBS Online: News and Updates

COVID-19 Vaccination FAQs more information on the vaccine here

COVID Vaccine eligibility checker

COVID Vaccine information in YOUR language

NEWS

New Advice: Australian Government Update on vaccines for RACFs - The Government is reviewing the planned rollout for vaccinating the aged care workforce who were to receive the AstraZeneca vaccine. Further information will be provided as soon as possible. Further information is here

People who have been in Greater Brisbane since 20 March who are now in NSW must comply with the same stay at home restrictions that apply to Greater Brisbane, regardless of their current location.

PHQ Magazine To combat COVID-19, we are currently rolling out various phases of the Vaccine and this latest edition of the Primary Health Quarterly will give you some insights into CESPHN's role in this. It is almost exactly one year since enormous adaptations were made to our health system to accommodate COVID-19. Telehealth, e-prescriptions, e-referrals and many other electronic updates have created a more tech friendly primary health care system. Our article on this breaks down each different area e-health has changed. Look out for our other articles including one on our new Services Guide, the benefits of Lumos and former Matraville resident, Ella Richards' story about getting COVID-19 in the USA.

COVID-19 Vaccine Provider Kit for General Practices

Some Respiratory Clinics are now offering COVID-19 Vaccines

COVID-19 Testing Clinics can change hours and locations so check here Please note here are QR CODES for St George and Sutherland area PLUS QR CODES for City and Eastern suburbs COVID Clinics

Is there COVID near me? Interactive website

Aged care resources

Healthdirect can help Access to medical help AFTER HOURS

Restriction Checker keeps up to date information on what is and isn't allowed

Useful Contacts

Healthdirect Coronavirus 24/7 Help Line (coronavirus only) 1800 020 080
Healthdirect 24/7 Help Line (general health issues) 1800 022 222
Link to your local Public Health Unit 1300 066 055
Language translator needed? 131450

Webinars Videos

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Masks

PPE: Application during COVID-19
NSW CHO Dr Kerry Chant recommends masks

Surgical masks have been supplied in limited numbers to PHNs for general practice, community pharmacies, GP respiratory clinics, after hours GP home visiting services, medical deputising services and allied health professionals working in higher risk clinical areas who are exposed to at risk customers.

To register your request for surgical masks please complete this form: Mask Request Form (CESPHN). However before submitting your request for masks, please refer to this PHN locator link to check if you are in the CESPHN area. Any requests submitted outside our area will not be processed.

We have a small supply of P2/N95 respirators for those assessing and collecting specimens from patients with suspected COVID-19.

The Department of Health has advised that stocks from the National Medical Stockpile are limited and masks should only be used in accordance with the guidance provided by The Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC).

CESPHN is only authorised to provide masks to general practices, community pharmacies, GP respiratory clinics, after hours GP home visiting services, medical deputising services and allied health professionals working in higher risk clinical areas. For further information see this fact sheet.

Other Health Care Providers including community service organisations requesting masks can email the National Incident Room: health.ops@health.gov.au These requests must state your organisation's need for masks.

Advice from the Department of Health regarding masks for other key groups:

Aged Care - If Commonwealth funded aged care providers are experiencing shortages and are unable to obtain masks, you may request supply from the Stockpile by emailing AgedCareCOVIDPPE@health.gov.au.

NDIS and disability providers - After disability support providers have explored alternative supply options, they can submit a request for supply from the National Medical Stockpile by emailing NDISCOVIDPPE@health.gov.au.

Non hospital-based specialists - High priority consideration will be given to providing masks to support necessary and urgent interventions for community/non hospital-based specialists whose assessments of, and interventions with, patients require close contact with patients, and particularly where aerosol generating procedures are involved. Masks are not routinely being made available to this group at this time

Allied health professionals are now eligible for limited access to the supply for the use of their staff when there is no available commercial supply and they are working in higher-risk clinical areas, and with higher risk vulnerable patients.

All other groups - People in other groups should continue to follow other infection prevention and control protocols, including social distancing, respiratory hygiene, frequent handwashing and regular cleaning of surfaces, including between patients if they are working in a health or other care field.

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COVID-19 Testing

PPE Strategy: Latest update from NSW Government

Information on testing at a glance: FAQ on COVID-19 testing

Location and hours: Pathology testing (including self testing)

Location and hours GP Respiratory clinics

Location and hours: COVID-19 clinics (public)

Updated: Guidance on lab testing

Updated: The use of facemasks and respirators in the context of COVID-19

Updated: Guidance COVID-19 swab collection-upper respiratory specimen

Updated: Guidance on nasal throat swabs

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian's announcement from 24 April, 2020, still relevant on widespread COVID-19 testing in NSW: "If you have symptoms, if you're worried you have COVID-19 or if you've been in contact with someone who may have it, please come forward and get tested"

Latest NSW Health: Testing beyond the suspect case definition may, based on the clinical and public health judgement of the treating clinician, include individuals with sudden and unexplained onset of one or more of the following symptoms. Loss of smell, loss of taste, runny nose, muscle pain, joint pain, diarrhoea, nausea/vomiting and loss of appetite. See CDNA national guidelines testing criteria here

Arrange Telehealth assessment of patients with respiratory symptoms if they meet the Suspect Case Definition. Arrange further assessment and testing, either at your practice (noting the infection control requirements and you will need to organise specimen collection) a pathology collection centre, coronavirus clinic, respiratory clinic or refer to your local emergency department

If you are notified of a positive COVID-19 test result, need advice, or have concerns about the ability of a patient to self-isolate, e.g. if they live in a residential facility, contact the Public Health Unit

In NSW calling 1300 066 055 will direct to your local Public Health Unit

South Eastern Sydney Public Health Unit - 9382 8333 After hours emergency - 9382 2222, ask for Public Health Officer on call

Sydney Public Health Unit - 9515 9420 After hours emergency - 9515 6111, ask for Public Health Officer on call

eOrdering pathology remotely

Use your usual forms, or use THIS CHART to remotely eOrder private pathology for your patients. This could be through your clinical information system or logging in directly with the private pathology provider. Remote ordering is ideal for telehealth consultations.

Only refer low-risk patients to private pathology collection centres.

Patients with moderate acute respiratory symptoms requiring an examination including fever, sore throat, cough, tiredness and shortness of breath can be referred to a GP Respiratory Clinic.
Unwell patients who may require hospital admission should be referred to a local emergency department immediately.

Please ask patients to wear a surgical mask whenever possible when going for a COVID-19 test.

COVID-19 pathology collection centres (GP referrals needed)

Self Testing for COVID-19:

Histopath delivers a test kit to your patient's home, the patient self collects throat and nasal swabs, and the courier returns the specimen to the Histopath lab. Most people can self collect. Contraindications are:

- A patient who would be unable to take a good quality swab by themself, or
- A patient who requires a COVID-19 clearance test for employment or for other medicolegal reasons

Referrals are made by fax to 9878 8300 or by email to covid@histopath.com.au
For more information and to download a referral form go to: http://www.histopath.com.au

Eastern Sydney QR CODES

Airport - histopath 'Drive-through'
Sydney International Airport arrivals (parking is free)
Centre Road P9, Express Pick-Up Car Park, Mascot
9.00 am - 4.00 pm daily
Open Public Holidays

Chifley histopath 'Drive-through'
Chifley Sports Reserve
800-899R Bunnerong Road,
Chifley See website
9.00 am - 4.00 pm, Monday - Friday (No booking required)

City Douglass Hanly Moir Pathology (Dr referral preferred)
Hudson House, 131 Macquarie Street, Sydney
Ph: 9111 3405, 1800 026 622
7.30 am - 1.30 pm Monday - Friday

Mascot Laverty Pathology 'Drive-through'
135 Baxter Rd, Mascot (no referral required)
8.00 am – 4.00 pm Monday - Friday

Randwick Laverty Pathology
Ground Floor, 164 Belmore Rd Randwick
Ph: 9314 6571
7.30 am - 4.00 pm Monday - Friday (Closed Public Holidays) No request form required

Inner West Sydney QR CODES

Campsie Australian Clinical Labs (patient must wear mask and have referral from GP)
Suite 101, 1st Floor, 308-312 Beamish St, Campsie
Ph: 02 9789 6220 Fax: 9787 1082
8.00 am - 1.00 pm Monday - Friday

Concord histopath 'Drive-through'
1 Nullawarra Avenue, Concord (Old Concord RSL Carpark)
9.00 am to 4.00 pm daily
Open Public Holidays

Earlwood Laverty Pathology No request form required
293 Homer Street, Earlwood
Ph: 9558 1568 Fax: 9559 4287
1.00 pm - 4.00 pm Monday - Friday (Closed Public Holidays)

Five Dock 4Cyte Pathology 'Drive-through'
155-157 Parramatta Road, Five Dock
Drive into side carpark and do not get out of your vehicle at any time.
No booking required.
8.30 am - 5.00 pm, Monday - Friday, 10.00 am - 2.30 pm weekends

Marrickville Medlab Pathology (need referral and mask)
322 Marrickville Rd, Marrickville
Ph: 02 8095 8990
8.00 am - 1.00 pm Monday - Saturday (arrive by 12.45)

Stanmore 4Cyte Pathology 'Drive-through'
Side Carpark, Cyprus Community Club of NSW,
58/76 Stanmore Rd, Stanmore
Patient or Doctor to email Request Form to covid19@4Cyte.com.au OR telephone on 0435 085 052
Pathology request forms no longer required
See website for details: Stanmore COVID-19 testing
8.00 am - 5.00 pm, Monday - Friday
11.00 am - 2.00 pm Saturdays and Sundays

South Eastern Sydney QR CODES

Arncliffe histopath 'Drive-through'
Riverine Park,
Cnr Spring Street and West Botany Street, Arncliffe
9.00 am to 4.00 pm Monday - Friday (closed public holidays)

Barden Ridge histopath Pathology
The Ridge Athletic Track
Recreation Drive, Barden Ridge
9.00 am - 4.00 pm, Monday - Friday No booking required
Please refer to Histopath website for further information Ph: 98788111

Hurstville 4Cyte Pathology 'Drive-through'
Entry via Butler lane (rear of 8 Ormonde pde, Hurstville)
See Instructions here
Bring this attached request form
Patient or Doctor to email Request Form to covid19@4Cyte.com.au
Phone: 0434990083
9.00 am - 5.00 pm Monday - Friday
11.00 am - 2.00 pm Saturdays and Sundays

Rosebery 4 Cyte Pathology COVID-19 Collection
Shop 1, 530 Botany Road, Rosebery (cnr of Botany Rd and Beaconsfield)
No referral required
8.30 am - 4.30 pm Monday to Friday, 10.00-2.00 Saturday
See instructions here

Jannali Laverty Pathology 'Drive-through'
2 Roberts Street, Jannali, NSW (Entry via Box Road)
8.00 am - 2.00 pm Monday - Friday (Closed Public Holidays) No request form required
See instructions here

Miranda Laverty Pathology
125 Kareena Road, Miranda
Ph: 0401 673 829 Fax: 8544 3771
8.00 am - 3.00 pm Monday - Friday
8.00 am - 12.00 pm Saturdays

Oatley Douglass Hanly Moir Pathology
111 Mulga Road Oatley
Ph: 8650 1370 or 1800 026 622; Fax: 9586 2420
8.00 am - 4.00 pm Monday - Friday (appointment only)

Testing centres in other regions can be found Here

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GP Respiratory Clinics

GP Respiratory clinics will assess people with mild to moderate respiratory symptoms including fever, sore throat, cough, tiredness and shortness of breath. Regardless of whether COVID-19 testing is indicated, or a specimen is taken, the patient will receive clinical guidance about managing their respiratory symptoms. Patients attending clinics must make an appointment. Some Respiratory Clinics are now offering COVID-19 Vaccines

Locations of Respiratory Clinics

Belmore Medical Respiratory Clinic PLUS COVID-19 Vaccine bookings
481 Burwood Rd, Belmore
9.00 am – 1.00 pm Monday to Friday
Closed weekends and public holidays Website
Phone: 97403211 Watch Dr Jamal Rifi and his son Faisal Rifi discuss running their respiratory clinic during the pandemic
Inner West GP Respiratory Clinic PLUS COVID-19 Vaccine bookings in SEPARATE LOCATION at Sydney Olympic Park
21a Elliott Street, Balmain
Check website for hours
GPs wishing to contact this clinic, please call 9555 5035 (only GPs)
website

Bondi Junction GP Respiratory Clinic PLUS COVID-19 Vaccine Bookings
47 Spring St, Bondi Junction
Mondays 8.00 am - 11.45 am, Tuesdays - Fridays, 9.00 am - 11.45 am, Saturdays, 10.00 am - 3.00 pm
Appointments can be made via this this link or by calling 9194 2788

Lakemba GP Respiratory Clinic PLUS COVID-19 Vaccine Bookings
96 Haldon St Lakemba (access from Oneata lane)
9.00 am - 5.00 pm daily
Appointments should be made via this link or by calling 9758 9848
Information poster AND See magazine article featuring this clinic (page 6 and 7)
Kirketon Road Centre - The mobile respiratory clinic, operated by the Kirketon Road Centre, is a mobile, walk-in primary health care assessment and testing service for socially housed, homeless and/or disadvantaged people who are experiencing respiratory symptoms. See magazine article featuring this clinic (page 6 and 7). Children under 5 years old should attend Prince of Wales Hospital Clinic (if attending with parent being tested), or Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick for testing.The clinic will rotate between pop-up locations in South Eastern Sydney including:
- Walla Mulla Park, corner Forbes and Cathedral streets, Woolloomooloo: (Mondays 4.00 pm - 5.30 pm,Tuesdays 7.15 pm - 9.15 pm, Fridays 4.00 pm - 5.30 pm, Saturdays 2.30 pm - 4.00 pm)
- Eddie Ward Park, Northcott Estate, Belvoir St, Surry Hills: (Mondays 1.00 pm - 3.30 pm, Wednesdays 1.00 pm - 5.30 pm, Fridays 1.00 pm - 3.30 pm, Saturdays 11.30 am - 1.30 pm)
- Martin Place, Phillip Street: (Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 7.00 pm - 8.30 pm)
- Outside The Hub at Lexington Place, South Maroubra: (Thursdays, 9.15 am - 12.30 pm)
- Outside Kooloora Community Centre, Bilga Crescent, Malabar: (Thursdays, 2.00 pm - 4.00 pm)
- Poets Corner, Redfern: (Tuesdays 2.00 pm - 3.30 pm, Saturdays 9.00 am - 11.00 am)
- Wentworth Park under the arches, near Wattle St: (Tuesdays and Fridays, 4.00 pm - 5.30 pm)
Flu vaccinations also available
COVID-19 Vaccine information
All centres are wheelchair accessible and testing is FREE. No need for referrals or appointments. Call 0429 802 381 or KRC on 9360 2766 for information - Further details on KRC testing times here

Double Bay Doctors 'Drive-through'
Jamberoo Lane (off William Street)
8.30 am - 12.30 pm Monday - Friday
8.00 am - 11.00 am Weekends (flexible)
Ph: 93283100 online bookings here
Appointment only. There is a $45 gap fee for this service (pensioners are bulk-billed). This service is for anyone experiencing respiratory symptoms or a temperature, regardless of the cause.

GPMaroubra 'Drive-through'
14 Meagher Ave Maroubra (masks mandatory)
Appointment only and there is approx. a $52 gap payment (pensioners/concession card holders are bulk billed).
The process is as follows:
1. A telehealth screening consult is required prior to the test – Ph: 9311 9311 or online bookings here
2. Drive-through test which is available from 1.00 pm - 1.45 pm Monday - Thursday
3. Results provided over the phone the next day

Miranda Medical Centre 'Drive-through'
573 Kingsway
Miranda.NSW. 2228 (GP referral required)
enter Covid testing marquee from Penprase Lane
Ph: 95401044 for an appointment
8.00 am – 4.00 pm Monday - Friday, 8.00 am – 1.00 pm weekends

Helensburgh Respiratory Clinic
129 Parkes Street,
Helensburgh, NSW 2508
Ph: 4294 1400 www.PSGP.com.au
8.30 am - 12.30 pm Monday - Friday

Ryde GP Respiratory Clinic
11-17 Khartoum Road, Macquarie Park (Back car-park to Wise Clinic)
8.00 am - 12.00 pm and 12.30 pm - 4.30 pm daily
Ph: 9216 7676 Appointments can be made via this this link
The booking process can be found here - this can be printed off and provided to patients to help with appointments. Click link for map

This link is to all other GP respiratory clinics in NSW

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COVID-19 Testing Clinics (public)

Both children and adults require the same testing (although non-emergency children can preferably be taken to the Sydney Children's Hospital or Royal Prince Alfred Hospital for testing)

Caringbah COVID-19 Testing Centre
348R Kingsway, Caringbah (located next to the pedestrian access linking the Kingsway to the supermarket)
The clinic is free and no referral or appointment required
9.00 am - 4.00 pm Monday - Friday
Restricted to ages 5 and older. Children <5yrs can attend Sutherland Hospital. Closed public holidays, During closure, go instead to - Sutherland Hospital Covid Clinic Please note here are QR CODES for St George and Sutherland area COVID Clinics' latest information

Canterbury Hospital
575 Canterbury Rd, Campsie
Outpatient department
access via the main entrance. - No booking required. open public holidays
10.00 am - 8.00 pm daily Canterbury Hospital website open public holidays

Central Station Clinic
1 Eddy Ave,
Central
8.30 am - 4.00 pm Monday – Friday, closed public holidays

Concord Hospital
Hospital Rd, Concord West
Across road from ED in Sports Institute Building. - No booking required
8.00 am - 6.00 pm daily open public holidays

Hurstville Community Centre
34 Woniora Road Hurstville
No referral or appointment required
9.00 am - 4.00 pm Monday - Friday
Closed on public holidays
Restricted to ages 5 and older. Children <5yrs can attend St George Hospital.
Phone 9113 2150 (website link with translated information included) Please note here are QR CODES for St George and Sutherland area COVID Clinics' latest information

Prince of Wales Hospital
Access via Building 14B Avoca St, Randwick
Testing for adults and children of all ages. Paediatric trained staff onsite.
9.00 am - 7.00 pm daily QR CODES for CIty and Eastern suburbs COVID Clinics with the latest opening hours and information. From Saturday, 17 April, 2021, the hours will stay the same for weekdays but for weekends will be: 9:00am - 5:00pm Saturday and Sunday (and public holidays). After hours screening via the Emergency Department.

Redfern Health Centre
103 - 105 Redfern Street
Redfern
8.30 am - 4.00 pm Monday – Friday , closed public holidays

Roselands 'Drive-through'
Roselands Shopping Centre Car Park
8.30 am - 4.00 pm daily Closed public holidays, open 3 April

Royal Prince Alfred Hospital
Building 25 at the end of Salisbury Rd, Off
Missenden Rd, Camperdown Follow signs from the main hospital
Behind the Chris O'Brien Lifehouse - No booking required.
8.00 am - 10.00 pm daily open public holidays

St George Hospital
Gray Street Kogarah - No booking required.
Test children ≥12 months old. Children <12 months old are referred to the St George Hospital Emergency Department to be tested there. All patients should continue to go to the ED after hours for COVID-19 screening.
8.00 am - 6.00 pm daily Please note here are QR CODES for St George and Sutherland area COVID Clinics' latest information

St Vincent’s Hospital (East Sydney Community and Arts Centre)
34 - 40 Burton St, Darlinghurst (enter from Palmer St entrance) Ph: 8382 2900 (website)
Children must be ≥16 years old. Otherwise they should attend Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick for testing
9.00 am - 4.00 pm daily (please attend emergency if you need testing when this clinic is closed) QR CODES for CIty and Eastern suburbs COVID Clinics with the latest opening hours and information

St Vincent's Bondi Beach car park clinic 'Drive-through'
Park Drive North, Bondi Beach car park. - No booking required
Children must be ≥5 years old. Children under 5 years old should attend Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick for testing
9.00 am - 5.00 pm daily (closed 26 Jan) - please attend emergency if you need testing when this clinic is closed QR CODES for CIty and Eastern suburbs COVID Clinics with the latest opening hours and information

Summer Hill 'Drive-through'
7 Prospect Rd, Summer Hill - No booking required.
Stop at covered area and wait for staff instructions (Inner west council depot)
8.30 am - 4.00 pm daily website Closed public holidays, open 3 April

Sutherland Hospital testing clinic
Ground Floor, old Emergency Department, Kareena Road entrance, then follow signs from ED
No age restrictions for children however if a child is too unwell, they will be referred to Sutherland Hospital Emergency
Open daily 8.00 am - 4.00 pm
Please note here are QR CODES for St George and Sutherland area COVID Clinics' latest information

Sutherland 'Drive-through'
Sutherland basketball stadium car park at the rear of Sutherland Leisure Centre, opposite Waratah Park (off Old Princes Highway and accessed via the roundabout on Rawson Ave)
No referral or appointment required
Children must be ≥5 years old. Children under 5 years old should attend The Sutherland Hospital Emergency Department for testing
9.00 am - 4.00 pm daily and Closed on public holidays. Please note here are QR CODES for St George and Sutherland area COVID Clinics' latest information

Sydney Eye Hospital
8 Macquarie St, Sydney (follow signs) - No booking required.
Children ≥1 can be tested here. Children less than one should attend Prince of Wales Hospital Clinic (if attending with parent being tested, or Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick for testing
10.00 am - 6.00 pm Monday - Friday Outside of these hours, you can attend the Emergency Department QR CODES for CIty and Eastern suburbs COVID Clinics with the latest opening hours and information

Sydney Olympic Park 'Drive-Through'
Edwin Flack Avenue
Sydney Olympic Park
8.00 am - 4.30 pm daily

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Infection control advice

NSW Health: Infection Control
RACGP Infection control principles
Cleaning staff to follow these principles
Latest advice on keeping patients safe: Testing and infection control

PPE application: updated Dec, 2020

How to put on and how to remove PPE.
Selection of RACGP videos on instructions for using PPE
Link to Infection control training video for health care workers
Hand sanitiser available to GPs, allied health workers and medical specialists

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Home isolation

All people arriving in Australia must isolate for 14 days (except for seeking medical care)
People who are isolated at home should not go to work, should not go to school, should not use public areas, and they should not use public transportation or taxis. Should a person isolated at home require medical care, wherever possible they should call first.
Appropriate contacts are GP, local emergency department, coronavirus helpline 1800 020 080 or the Healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222

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Telehealth MBS Items

Telehealth services have been extended to 30 June 2021. See ministers media release and FAQ.
MBS Home is continuously updated with news, factsheets and downloads
Telehealth is now a permanent fixture of our health system: Details here
Continuous care with Telehealth information: Medicare
Telehealth reimbursements: Coviu Reimbursement fact sheet

Digital Health Administration

e-Delivery: For more timely medicines for Australians and improve patient safety Information here

e-Ordering pathology: Use THIS CHART to remotely eOrder pathology for patients

e-Lectronic eprescribing: Prescriber Ready GPs and Detailed Information on e-prescribing November 2020
plus Toolkit to help with promoting your practice as eprescribing. Log in using these details: digitalhealth.immij.com Username: Pharmacy Password: digitalhealth. Also, for further information, watch Dr Hilton Shapiro discuss his experience on e-prescribing

What is e-prescribing? ADHA Fact Sheet
e-prescribing ADHA FAQs
e-prescribing Dept Health Fact Sheet
e-prescribing: Watch videos here
e-prescribing ADHA advice

For enquiries please email us at telehealth@cesphn.com.au and our expert Telehealth Support team will quickly respond.

General Practices

Telehealth services have been extended to 30 June 2021. COVID-19 temporary MBS telehealth items have been made available online to help reduce the risk of community transmission of COVID-19 and provide protection for patients and health care providers. Temporary MBS telehealth items are available to GPs, medical practitioners, specialists, consultant physicians, nurse practitioners, participating midwives, allied health providers and dental practitioners. Click here for FAQs about temporary MBS telehealth services.

The temporary GP and OMP bulk billing incentive items for patients who are vulnerable to COVID-19 and the temporary doubling of all Medicare bulk-billing incentive fees has ceased. GPs can choose to bulk-bill or patient bill any temporary COVID-19 telehealth and phone attendance service. Bulk billing will continue to be available and regular billing practices will apply to all of these services. Bulk billing is at the discretion of all providers, so long as informed financial consent is obtained prior to the provision of the service.

Bulk billed GP and OMP services provided using the MBS telehealth items are eligible for MBS incentive payments when provided to Commonwealth concession card holders and children under 16 years of age.

Telehealth Resources from early in the pandemic

September 2020 media release
FAQ Telehealth (Aust Dept Health) Updated 20 July
Provider FAQs (CESPHN) Updated 21 April
FAQs on MBS items (Aust Dept Health) Updated 28 July
HOW TO: Conduct a video telehealth consultation
Healthdirect Video Call service (more on this below)
Updated resources: Telehealth Hub
Free technology help available: Help for doctors, allied health and patients to connect online
Telehealth for patients How to
Patient consent: Telehealth
Getting started with Telehealth: Checklist
Telehealth PBS: changes
Telehealth Resources: Agency
Telehealth counselling: Information
BMJ Article: remote Telehealth consultation in primary care
RACGP flowchart: How to
RACGP guide: consultations

Healthdirect Video Call service

The healthdirect Video Call COVID-19 GP Program has been extended to 31 December, 2021. This provides free video call access for GPs working in private practice and/or Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs).
We encourage you to continue using this secure video consulting platform which has been purpose-built for primary care settings.
For GPs in private practice wanting to start using the service, please register your practice. For GPs in ACCHOs wanting to start using the service, please register for access.
RACGP CPD accredited training in healthdirect Video Call is now available for your practice.

To register for a free licence, complete the New Clinic Application Form and send it to telehealth@cesphn.com.au. We can get you up and running in a day.

HealthDirect Video Call Service resources:

HealthDirect Videocall factsheet and Video explanation of telehealth
Customisable Video Call Patient Information Leaflet
Video Call Clinician How To and Troubleshooting Guide
Video Call Patient How To and Troubleshooting Guide

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Resources for General Practice

The Department of Health has published a stakeholder pack with key information about COVID-19 vaccines, tailored to multicultural communities. The pack provides translated information on the roll-out of the vaccine in Australia and the importance of continuing to practice COVID-safe behaviours. Click here to view the stakeholder pack.

Got a question about the general practice vaccine EOI? Part 1 FAQs PLUS Part 2 FAQs

Mental health issues due to COVID-19 are on the rise which is why we focussed the summer edition of Primary Health Quarterly on mental health.

RACGP guide to managing patients who present with respiratory symptoms: This covers preparation, screening, triage, billing, teleheath consultion and testing.

RACGP list of ways to keep a GP practice COVIDSafe

SESLHD: communication of patient care to GPs
South Eastern Sydney Local Health District (SESLHD) ceased faxing discharge summaries and inpatient admission and discharge notifications on 1 November 2020. This information will be available through My Health Record and secure messaging. To receive patient care information successfully, you must be registered for My Health Record and connected to a secure messaging solution such as Argus, HealthLink or Medical Objects. To assist you with this, please contact CESPHN's Digital Health team via digitalhealth@cesphn.com.au

To update GP and practice details please contact one of the following hospitals and your details will be updated for all SESLHD Hospitals

Calvary Hospital, Clinical Information Service: 9553 3488
Prince of Wales Hospital, Health Information Unit: 9382 9172
Royal Hospital for Women, Health Information Unit: 9382 9172
St George Hospital, Clinical Information Service: 9113 2888
Sutherland Hospital, Clinical Information Service: 9113 2888
Sydney Hospital & Sydney Eye Hospital, Medical Records Department: 9382 7339
War Memorial Hospital Medical Records Department: 9369 0242
Check-In with your GP marketing resources available: Resources

General Practice preparedness for a pandemic

July 10 posters targetted to indigenous communities

July 7 The latest NSW Health updated resources (posters, social media tiles banners, fact sheets)

FAQs for clinicians on elective surgery

How GPs can assist with intellectual disability issues during COVID-19

Disability management during COVID-19

The Australian Asthma Handbook has been updated to include new information on managing asthma during the COVID-19 pandemic

Posters for GP surgeries

Centrelink: HPOS and documents for patients' schools, employers here

Resources to assist with family violence

Supporting Women

Australian Breastfeeding Association is a Registered Training Organisation offering nationally-recognised courses for health professionals. See our vox pop video here.

COVID-19 vaccination in pregnancy is not routinely recommended but not contraindicated. Each woman should make a decision based on her health and exposure risks. Women who are planning pregnancy or who are breastfeeding can receive COVID-19 vaccination. Clinical Guidance on use of COVID-19 vaccination in Australia RANZCOG position statement

BreastScreen NSW has now resumed breast screening. Details here in this PINK document contact BreastScreen NSW on 132050

RPA Women and Babies/Canterbury ANSC Update: Information here

Royal Hospital for Women ANSC Update: Information here

St George/Sutherland ANSC Update: Information here

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HealthPathways

Sydney HealthPathways has a new COVID-19 – Child Assessment and Management pathway.

Similar pathways exist on Sydney HealthPathways so if your practice falls within SLHD please access their site for localised information and responses.

The South Eastern Sydney HealthPathways and Sydney HealthPathways now include information on management of coronavirus. New users will be able to request access on their local HealthPathways home page. To access these Pathways use the following links:

South Eastern Sydney: Community Health Pathways

Sydney: Community Health Pathways

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Education: Videos and webinars

Upcoming Sydney Webinars (timezone converter)

See here for our CPD calendar

See here for upcoming external events

Link to CESPHN's full video library here which includes CESPHN COVID-19 Update Series in this playlist

RACGP/NSW COVID-19 Health recordings are here

Coviu's 2021 State of Telehealth Summit
This ground-breaking event brings together 20 subject-matter experts and 10 hours of learning targeted toward mental health and allied health professionals - all accessible entirely free and from the comfort of your home. As a participant, you’ll be able to join live webinars, watch session recordings (on-demand, 24/7), and more Recording coming

RACGP NSW&ACT's COVID-19 update webinar

2021

The next RACGP NSW COVID-19 update webinar will be held on Monday, 15 March 2021 (7pm-8pm). Click here to register or email any questions to nswact.webinars@racgp.org.au

22 February 2021 - Watch Youtube recording here

8 February 2021 - Watch Youtube recording here

18 January 2021 - Watch Youtube recording here

2020

Katrina Otto's CESPHN telehealth series: Access with Train IT Medical using the access code: AsyJe88h Instructions

Externally produced PAST RECORDINGS HERE

Getting your practice COVID vaccine ready, 7 December, 2020 Details here
General Practice Triage during COVID-19, 3 December, 2020 Details here

The Medical Republic + Coviu: Webinar - What if you HAVE TO do VIDEO telehealth? 29 October, 2020 Watch zoom recording here

Redefining your business for your recovery (56 minutes) 26 June Watch youtube recording here

Incorporating Telehealth into your Service: Realise Business with Michelle Tayler (1 hour) 18 June zoom recording here

Health post COVID-19: Grattan Institute (1 hour), 10 June Watch youtube recording here

COVID-19 Telehealth in Primary Care (60 minutes), 8 May Watch youtube recording here

Healthdirect information video (6 minutes) Watch video here

COVID-19 and pregnancy - International Experience (35 seconds), 19 April Watch youtube recording here

COVID-19 and pregnancy - Not Separating Babies (1 minute and 30 seconds), 19 April Watch youtube recording here

COVID-19 and pregnancy - Keep in contact with your doctor (1 minute and 7 seconds),19 April Watch youtube recording here

Update on the Australian Government's response to the Coronavirus pandemic (30 minutes) 15 April Watch recording here

Message to local GPs about Respiratory Clinics (3 minutes)15 April Watch youtube recording here

How to prepare for and implement Telehealth (1 hour, 28 minutes) 9 April Watch zoom recording here

A digital approach to mental health: Flip the Clinic (1 hour and 26 minutes) University of Sydney's Brain and Mind Research Centre. Hosted by Dr Norman Swan 8 April Listen to recording here

Telehealth webinar - familiarisation with Telehealth (1 hour, 31 minutes)24 March zoom recording here

BBV and STI sector briefing during COVID-19 (1 hour and 4 minutes)19 March vimeo video here

In Home and Community Aged Care COVID-19 Preparedness Webinar (2 hours)13 March Watch video here

Webinar recordings on Electronic Prescribing (28 minutes)12 December, 2019: Link to related videos

Links to relevant video LIBRARIES

Link to Australian Government COVID-19 video library

Link to NSW Dept Health COVID-19 videos

Link to RACGP upcoming webinars

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Allied Health Professionals

Watch our vox pop series where we interview primary health workers including allied health professionals HERE

Allied health professionals are now eligible for limited access to the supply of masks for the use of their staff when there is no available commercial supply and they are working in higher-risk clinical areas, and with higher risk vulnerable patients.

Free technology help available: Help for allied health professionals and patients to connect online

Residential aged care COVID-19 measures to increase allied health access

Videos/webinars and other information

COVID-19 Response Update for Allied Health Practitioners - Dept Health, 23 April Watch video here
COVID-19 response Update for Allied Health Practitioners 16 April Watch video here
COVID-19 Response update for primary care and allied health, 9 April Watch video here
COVID-19 response update for allied health practitioners, 2 April Watch video here
COVID-19 response update for allied health practitioners, 26 March Watch video here
NSW Health Guidance for home visiting and scheduled Outpatient clinics Infectious/diseases, Community and Outpatients
Screening and managing patients who may have COVID-19 Infectious disease and Outpatient Guidance This information relating to Outpatient clinics may be used in a primary care context to assist with the screening and management of patients who may have COVID-19

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Aged Care providers

Advice to RACFs updated 7 January 2021

Advice to home care services updated 7 January 2021

Aged care mental health: The Australian Government recently expanded access for aged care residents to Medicare subsidised individual psychological services. Up until 30 June 2022, aged care residents can access up to 20 individual psychological services per calendar year where their GP or psychiatrist determines they would clinically benefit from additional mental health support. For more information on Better Access for aged care residents, go to the Department of Health’s website NOTE MBS item numbers for mental health services in RACFs

CESPHN COVID-19 Outbreak RACF Preparedness and Response plan for Primary Care (updated 28 Oct)

Advice for GPs with patients in aged care

Resources

NSW Advice for aged care services (updated 21 Dec)

COVID-19 guidelines: CDNA National Guidelines: Outbreaks in residential care facilities

NSW Guidance for Residential Aged Care Facilities (updated 22 Nov)

PPE email for RACFs agedcarecovidppe@health.gov.au. The following information must be provided in your email request: 1. The facility, program or service requiring PPE. 2. If you have had a confirmed case of COVID-19 at your facility, program or service. 3. Types and quantities of PPE required. 4. Details of other suppliers you have attempted to source PPE stock from

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Resources for Community providers

The Department of Health have released a series of videos addressing a number of COVID-19 vaccine questions

Advice for employers from the Australian Government Department of Health

Supporting People to Stay Infection Free

Disability Services Consulting has released a free e-learning module

Sexual Health and COVID-19: link to website plus see here for webinar discussing COVID-19 for the BBV and STI sectors and further information on care with BBVs and sexual health

Health care workers: Link to Infection control training video

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Community information

Get ready for your COVID-19 vaccination in 3 easy steps

What you need to know to get ready for the COVID-19 vaccines

Services Australia has provided information for the general public to prepare for COVID-19 vaccination, including how to view an immunisation history statement.

Videos, guides and resources are available detailing how to:

create a myGov account and link Medicare
check contact details for Medicare are up to date
view an immunisation history statement.

Details are available on the Services Australia website.

COVID Vaccine eligibility checker

COVID Vaccine information in YOUR language

The Department of Health have released a series of videos addressing a number of COVID-19 vaccine questions

Children's guide to going to a COVID-19 testing clinic
We know the thought of getting a COVID-19 test can be scary especially for young children. This booklet has been developed by the Western Sydney Local Health District to support families of children aged three to five, prepare for a COVID-19 test.

Useful links

Is there COVID near me? Excellent interactive website

Healthdirect can help Access to medical help after hours

Restriction Checker keeps up to date information on what is and isn't allowed

Information on How to use an infrared thermometer during COVID-19 PLUS Setting up a QR code

You must immediately self-isolate and get tested for Covid-19, and then stay isolated at home for 14 days from the date of your visit to some venues: Active COVID-19 cases in Sydney: Regular updates here

Healthdirect Symptom Checker guides you to the appropriate healthcare action which is also available on the Healthdirect app

FAQs from Healthdirect on coronavirus

Community information on face masks

We have had a significant increase in enquiries about cloth face masks and as a result, we have compiled this information on wearing and making face masks.

Mask use supplements but is not a substitute for other precautions such as hand hygiene and physical distancing.

When wearing or buying a mask, check it complies with recommendations. There are specific guidance requirements for masks to be effective.

· How to: Wear a mask here

· How to: Make (sew) a cloth mask

· How to: Make a (NO sew) cloth mask

How to: Make a cloth mask (another example)

There is a lot of support for vulnerable groups

COVIDSafe APP is available in Arabic, Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean and Vietnamese

Guidance for accessing and delivering AOD services during COVID-19: Alcohol and Drugs information and services

Aged Care/Loneliness: Community Visitors Scheme

For people feeling socially isolated, the Red Cross has a chat service to help people feel connected

Your rights during COVID-19: Anti-Discrimination NSW

Survey on how children are coping with COVID-19: Survey on how children are coping with COVID-19 HERE

Mental Health: Extensive mental health information and contacts. Also, watch BEING CEO Irene Gallagher speak about creating employment for people living with mental health issues, peer support, networking programmes for people identifying as living with mentalhealth issues and numerous other related topics

Information on elective surgery: FAQs for consumers on elective surgery

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health: July 2020 posters extensive information

Languages other than English: Multilingual Resources on COVID-19 PLUS COVID Vaccine information in YOUR language

International Student COVID-19 crisis accommodation

Disability Information: Recently released information

The Commonwealth has now released the COVID-19 Vaccination Disability Service Providers Toolkit. This collection of resources is designed to assist residential disability service providers to prepare for Phase 1a vaccinations.
Healthdirect – COVID-19 Health Professionals Disability Advisory Service
Australian Human Rights Commission – Guidelines on the rights of people with disability in health and disability care during COVID-19
NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission – Coronavirus (COVID-19): Information pack for NDIS providers and workers
NSW Health – Public Health Orders Easy Read Version
Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care – COVID 19 and Cognitive Impairment
Department of Health - Australian Health Sector Emergency Response Plan for Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) – Management and Operational Plan for People with Disability
Department of Health – Coronavirus (COVID) advice for people with disability
Department of Health – National Coronavirus Helpline – 1800 020 080
Department of Health – healthdirect Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Department Of Health – Coronavirus app Apple Store or Google Play
Department of Home Affairs – Translating and Interpreting Service
National Disability Insurance Scheme – Latest Advice from NDIS
Disability Advocacy Network –- AdvoKit
Department of Health – Webinar - Impact of COVID-19 on people with a disability and how to keep them safe as restrictions are eased.
NDIS Advice – FAQs for providers during COVID-19
Disability Information Helpline – Information and referrals for people with disability, carers, support staff and service providers who need help 1800 643 787
World Health Organisation (WHO) – Disability Considerations during the COVID- 19 outbreak

Disability Information: For doctors and health staff

Department of Health – Advice sheets in relation to COVID-19 prevention, screening and management for people with intellectual or developmental disorders, includes an advice sheet for Primary Health.
Department of Health – Coronavirus (COVID-19) health alert
NSW Health – COVID-19 (Coronavirus)
NSW Health – COVID-19 Updated Advice
NSW Health – COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Testing Advice
SLHD - Easy read COVID-19 Car testing advice sheet
SLHD - Easy read COVID-19 Hospital testing advice sheet

Disability Information: For carers, families and workers

Department of Health – Coronavirus (COVID) Frequently asked questions
NSW Health – Coronavirus COVID19 (Coronavirus) Frequently asked questions
Carers Australia – COVID-19 Advice for Carers
Carers NSW – COVID-19 Information for Carers
Carer Gateway – Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information
Sourcekids – COVID-19 resources for you and your child
Beyond Blue – Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service
Every Australian Counts – Information regarding Covid-19 and the NDIS for PWID, their families and workers
Autism Parenting – Support for parents of autistic children during COVID19
Mindheart – Covid story for supporting children
Sourcekids – Resources for families to support children with disability during Covid-19
The autism educator – Social story on the Corona Virus for PWD
Council for Intellectual Disability – A range of easy read information eg viruses and staying healthy, mental health, visiting the doctor etc
Beyond Blue – Resources regarding mental health

Disability Information: For people with disability

Council for Intellectual Disability – Staying safe from Coronavirus
National Relay Service – 1300 555 727
Expression Australia – Coronavirus (COVID-19) updates
NSW Health – COVID-19 flu clinics – GPs must be called before visiting one
The Autism Educator – What is the Coronavirus?
The Growing Space – Coronavirus/COVID19 Easy English Resource
Department of Social Services (DSS) – Easy read resources for people with disability and their supporters
IDEAS – Supporting people with disability during the COVID-19 crisis
Disability Advocacy Network – Coronavirus Resources for people with disability
Australian Council of Social Service – COVID response advocacy and information from ACOSS members

Disability Information: For NDIS participants

Every Australian Counts – Information for NDIS participants and families about the Coronavirus
NDIS – Coronavirus (COVID-19) information and support
NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission – Fact sheet: Coronavirus (COVID-19) NDIS participant information
People with Disability Australia (PWD) – Information and resource hub
NDIA – COVID-19 Psychosocial information pack

Disability Information: For community languages

Ethnolink – COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Translated Resources
Victoria State Government – Translated resources – Coronavirus disease (COVID-29)
Refugee Council – COVID-19 Update for refugees and people seeking asylum
Australian Red Cross – How to prepare for coronavirus
Department of Health – Translated resources
NSW Health – Community Languages
SBS – Multilingual Coronavirus Portal
Settlement Services International (SSI) – Support and resources

Disability Information: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people and remote communities

The National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation ( NACCHO) – COVID-19 Updates
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Services Map

Telehealth

Telehealth and People with Disability

To provide continued access to essential primary health services during the COVID -19 pandemic, the Commonwealth Government is expanding Medicare subsidised telehealth services for all Australians.
The commonwealth is also providing extra incentives to general practitioners and other health practitioners. A factsheet is available via the Department of Health website
Telehealth is available to people with disability in the same way as it is available to all Australians.
When providing a service using telehealth, with agreement from the participant, providers can submit payment requests using the support line items that they would normally use to provide face to face services. This includes for assessments, reviews and participant education. Connecting with and helping participants.

Homelessness, domestic violence and unemployed

pdf Newtown Neighborhood Centre - useful resources (241 KB)
Free TAFE courses to assist job seekers: More information is available via TAFE NSW or by calling 131 601 today

Other helpful Information

Important reminder not to put your health on hold - Australian Digital Health Agency
COVID-19 tips for people living with Dementia
Australian Government Department of Health link to Coronavirus Resources
NSW Health guide to Protecting yourself from infectious disease
Updated information on how to protect yourself from COVID-19

Disability Information: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – how and when to use

PPE training videos NSW Health Clinical Excellence Commission
The Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) has endorsed the following recommendation for (non-inpatient) care of people at risk of, or with suspected or confirmed, COVID-19 including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) Advice on non-inpatient care of people with suspected or confirmed COVID-19, including use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
The PPE guidance can be found within PPE for the health workforce section of the collection and the ‘COVID-19 testing for people with disability’ can be found within the testing section

Person Protective Equipment (PPE) – the National Medical Stockpile

If NDIS service providers or self-managing participants need access to PPE, the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission factsheet is advising them to email the National Medical Stockpile at NDISCOVIDPPE@heallth.gov.au

The NDIS has advised that the Commonwealth Department of Health will be triaging requests. Providers will need to demonstrate:

They have not been able to source masks on the open market
Existing stocks have been depleted
Who will be using the masks
How masks will be prioritised and distributed to minimise transmission
How previous stockpile supplies (if applicable) have been used efficiently and effectively

Requests will be prioritised where: