Pandemic results in nearly 100,000 fewer GP visits, MBS data reveals Concerns over coronavirus and burdening the health system have seen people put off consultations and tests for management of chronic illnesses.
Fears of post-pandemic ‘tsunami of health problems’ General practice consultations and specialist check-ups for chronic disease remain down across the board amid coronavirus fear.
Rural GPs urged to look after mental health Emerging research shows that while the pandemic is affecting everyone, those in rural and remote communities are particularly vulnerable.
Isolation silver lining? Drop in road trauma, assaults and injuries Australia’s lockdown has seen rates of trauma plummet, with road accidents, sports injuries and alcohol-linked assaults all falling.
COVID-19 podcast: Ethical issues that arise in a pandemic In this special podcast, The Good GP speaks with Professor Angus Dawson, who discusses ethical issues that arise in a pandemic, as well as the publication, An ethics framework for making resource allocation decisions within clinical care: Responding to COVID-19.
Disaster recovery In this episode, hosts Dr Gillian Singleton and Dr Billy Stoupas discuss the vital role GPs play in frontline disaster recovery. During and after pandemics and natural disasters, the focus on protecting and supporting the lives and health of individuals and communities is often at the cost of GPs’ own wellbeing and business continuity. Sharing his experience from both sides, guest Dr Michael Clements offers advice to support GPs and communities.
Why we should care about substance use amid a pandemic Dr Shani Macaulay reflects on how the ongoing coronavirus outbreak may affect people who experience issues with alcohol and other drugs.
Significant measures to keep health professionals on the coronavirus frontline A new pandemic sub-register will allow 40,000 experienced and qualified practitioners to return to work, while Victoria has expanded testing criteria for healthcare workers.
Surge in hardship provisions risks shortages during pandemic GPs using hardship provisions to help patients self-isolate with supplies of medication may need to use new alternatives, the DoH warns.
Practices must adapt to stay afloat as telehealth takes off GPs have welcomed the telehealth expansion, but say adaptation to the new reality will be key for practices to remain viable.