BreastScreen NSW Set to Resume
BreastScreen NSW is now taking calls and preparing to resume screening from 18 May 2020. Screening will resume at the Tweed Heads, Lismore, Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie centres, and via the mobile van in Bowraville. BreastScreen NSW has advised that women who had their appointments cancelled will be prioritised and contacted directly, as soon
Update on Flu Vaccines
NSW Health is advising that all influenza vaccine orders placed from 22 April onward are now on back order for: Aboriginal people aged five years to 64 years Those who are medically at risk Pregnant women Orders will be filled when more influenza vaccines stock becomes available in June 2020. Orders for persons aged 65 years
Drive-In Immunisation Clinics
NSW Health has developed guidelines to support practices considering drive-in immunisation clinics. Drive-in immunisation clinics are not routinely recommended, due to safety concerns for patients who may experience a rare adverse event following immunisation. Immunisation providers considering this option after reviewing existing advice for maintaining and implementing vaccinations clinics during COVID-19 should consider the guidelines.
Advice on Post-Vaccination Observation Time
The Australian Technical Advisory Group On Immunisation (ATAGI) has released advice on post-vaccination observation time in the context of COVID-19. The Australian Immunisation Handbook recommends that individuals who receive a vaccination should remain under observation for at least 15 minutes. This allows for the observation of possible adverse effects, such as anaphylaxis and fainting. Where an
Media Release: Distancing Also Helps Protect Against Flu
MEDIA RELEASE – DISTRIBUTED 3 APRIL 2020 This week, there has been a rise in the number of people calling their GP to get a flu shot. While it is great that people want to take precautions, Healthy North Coast is reminding local residents that the flu vaccine may not be here yet. Healthy North
Influenza Immunisation Clinic Patient Information and Consent Checklist
Dr Brett Lynam has shared a concise checklist to help administer his outdoor flu clinic this year. As your flu clinic will run quite differently too, think about how you will check off on consent, history and advice. Take a look at Dr Lynam’s approach below. Thanks again, Brett. Dr Lynam’s Patient Information and Consent
New Powers for Pharmacists
NSW pharmacists now have extra powers, enabling them to stay open 24/7 and dispense medicines without a prescription. A special authority has been granted to community pharmacists to assist people who can’t access their GP. Trusted community pharmacists can now dispense when people are unable to contact their GP for a prescription. Pharmacies are also
Dental Emergency Directory
Thousands of patients will need emergency dental care during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The Australian Dental Association New South Wales has developed a new directory to help people find the nearest dentist offering emergency treatment. Restrictions due to COVID-19 mean many dentists have to limit opening times or temporarily close their doors. The emergency directory can
Influenza Immunisation During COVID-19
Influenza immunisation has never been more important than in 2020. This year’s flu vaccinations will take more planning to work around the limitations imposed by COVID-19. To help, Carolyn Lloyd, Immunisation Coordinator at NNSWLHD, has recorded a 15-minute webinar on vaccinating during COVID-19. Her presentation is packed with useful tips and information to help you.
Telehealth Options Create Safe Zone
New temporary items have been added to the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) in response to the spread of COVID-19. General practitioners, nurse practitioners, mental health professionals, specialists, obstetricians and midwives can now deliver telehealth services via video and phone calls to eligible patients. With these safer options, people can access essential health services in their
Winter Strategy 2020 is Coming
Winter Strategy is an integrated care initiative involving general practice, the Northern NSW Local Health District and NCPHN. The program is aimed at supporting general practices to keep their most vulnerable patients well and reduce their likelihood of being hospitalised over winter. Practice enrolment opens 2 March 2020. For more information email winter@hnc.org.au or phone
Pulmonary Rehabilitation Opportunity for Private Allied Health
North Coast Primary Health Network is excited to announce that it will be contracting private physiotherapists and exercise physiologists to provide pulmonary rehabilitation across our footprint. This initiative aims to achieve an integrated network of pulmonary rehabilitation across hospital and private providers. It will engage with general practice and specialists on care planning, referral and
