A new logistical approach to Personal Protective Equipment and pulse oximeters

From 15 February, PPE deliveries from the National Medical Stockpile (NMS) have been delivered directly to general practitioners and pharmacists. This removes the requirement for Primary Health Networks (PHNs) to be an intermediatory distributor to GPs and pharmacists in their area.  Deliveries to rural and remote areas will be prioritised. 
 
Local PHNs will remain the contact point for General Practitioners (GPs), Aboriginal and Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs), GP-led Respiratory Clinics (GPRCs) and immunising pharmacists to order PPE. The new approach includes an improved ordering system, with a tracking number so that individual practices can track their orders. The new system also supports monitoring and compliance checks to ensure PPE is only provided for free, from the NMS to those who are eligible. 
 
There will be a transition phase over the coming weeks while PHNs run down PPE stock levels prior to submitting orders for PPE under the new arrangements. 
 
Under the Australian Government Living with COVID Primary Care package, PPE bundles are being made available for free under emergency conditions to GPs, Aboriginal and Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs), GP-led Respiratory Clinics (GPRCs) and immunising pharmacists.