Assistance for GPs delivering care to people with disability during COVID-19
AMA members may be interested in a new telephone advisory service from the Department of Health that can provide specialised clinical advice for health professionals involved in the care of people with disability during the COVID-19 pandemic.
People with disability may become very anxious because of COVID-19, and require reasonable adjustments to their healthcare to ensure they receive appropriate care.
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Specific support may be required to address communication and management issues, such as behaviours of concern and the reduction of risk to the patient and staff involved in the process.
A six-week trial for the phone line commenced on 7 July 2020. Future availability will be determined following an assessment of its utilisation during this period.
Health professionals can call the service on 1800 131 330 between 7am – 11pm (AEST) 7 days a week.
Calls to the Advisory Service will be answered by health professionals with disability service qualifications and experience working with people with disability.