The Minister for Health and Aged Care introduced new COVID-19 measures that aim to support allied health care in aged care settings. These measures are expected to address the physical and mental health needs of aged care residents during the pandemic.
These new Medicare measures were commenced on 10 December 2020 and will be available until 30 June 2022.
In addition, the Federal Government announced targeted block funding that will be delivered through Primary Health Networks to facilities in three states including Tasmania, Victoria, and New South Wales. As of this writing, the PHN-funded program is being finalised and will be delivered in the next six months. Long-term access shall be evaluated by the government.
AHPA is working closely with the Commonwealth to reaffirm their support for the new measures. AHP will provide assistance to the development of new guideline materials for GPs and other health professionals. AHPA will be asking for the support of PHN in their implementation program. Following are the direct implications of the new funding to certain fields:
· Expanded mental health access
Any residents can now access 20 face-to-face sessions with mental health professionals.
· Expanded allied health access
Changes were done as well to the Medicare Chronic Disease Management program. This will provide a wider range of access to allied health services.
· New group programs
Targeted measures are in place to regroup PHNs that experienced outbreaks. These PHNs will be tapping on allied health professionals to man the facilities and provide the needs of the residents there. Currently, there are 11 PHN that confirmed participation in the program.
Check out the complete list of the provisions on the AHPA website.
