Victorian Lockdown
Regarding today’s announcement of a 7 day lockdown in Victoria means that all members operating in Victoria must close from 11:59pm tonight (Thursday) until 11:59pm next Thursday 3rd of June, except by telehealth / virtual consultation only.
The Victorian government has stated that only services provided by “allied health professionals working in private or public community services, whether clinic-based or home-based, providing essential clinical care where telehealth services are not clinically appropriate” are permitted.
Our members are not currently considered Allied Health professionals as per the https://ahpa.com.au/allied-health-professions/ definition.
To read the full statement from the Victorian government, please follow this link - https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/statement-acting-premier-1
Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine
Can treat under the following circumstances:
1. Scope of permitted practices (under lockdown):
• to prevent a significant change/deterioration in functional independence which would result in an escalation of care needs (e.g. an increase in frequency of treatment needed, an increased need for prescription medication due to a significant increase in pain, requirement for specialist input or review, an increase in care needs, and/or a substantial increase to anticipated recovery time associated with a delay in receiving services)
• to provide assessment and diagnostic services to clients / patients whose care have been delayed as a result of previous restrictions, with any further delay likely to result in deterioration in functional independence or adverse health outcomes (including access to diagnostic imaging services or assessment for prescription of assistive equipment and technology)
• to provide services that are essential as part of a broader plan of care with a medical practitioner (e.g. fitting a brace post-surgery)
• to provide services that are part of a conservative management plan to avoid or delay elective surgery (as agreed with treating team)
• to provide services immediately following elective surgery that prevent secondary complications or aid functional recovery (as agreed with treating team).
2. Mask wearing requirements (i.e. wearing both indoors and outdoors)
3. Other cleaning and hygiene protocols between clients should continue to be adhered to
4. COVID Safe Plan must be in place
We understand this next week will impact all of you, your businesses and your clients. We trust that this circuit breaker will serve the intended purpose and help minimise the risk of further cases in the community.
ANTA is here to support you however we can, and we will continue to advocate on your behalf, while providing you with updated information as it comes to hand.