$5 million for bushfire related health research

The current bushfire crisis that is impacting large parts of Australia has devastated individuals and communities. The Australian Government is taking action on this significant public health problem.   The medium-term health effects of the recent bushfires will be studied under two major research streams commissioned by the Government.   The Government will provide $5…

Immediate mental health services deployed into fire affected communities

More mental health support services will be immediately provided to firefighters, emergency personnel, individuals and communities impacted by the ongoing bushfire disaster. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said an initial $76 million would fund free counselling sessions, extra Medicare and tele-health consultations, an expansion of headspace services for young Australians, and community recovery initiatives. “These bushfires…

Ensuring continued access to affordable PBS medicines for those impacted by the bushfires

The Morrison Government is implementing temporary, emergency measures to ensure people affected by the current bushfire situation are able to continue to receive Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) subsidised medicines when a doctor’s prescription is not immediately available.   These changes will help people with ongoing medical needs including those with asthma, lung disease, diabetes, heart disease…

Speeding up the process to get doctors to bushfire-affected communities

The Morrison/McCormack Government has put in place emergency protocols to expedite the process of getting GPs and allied health workers to bushfire-affected communities where they are needed most.   The Department of Health and Department of Human Services will prioritise all applications from doctors who want to work in medical practices in bushfire-affected communities.  …