Health Assistance for Flood Affected Australians
The Acting Minister for Health and Ageing, Mark Butler, has announced special short term emergency health arrangements for flood-affected areas, including the activation of the Health National Incident Room and special pharmacy arrangements.
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13 January 2011
The Acting Minister for Health and Ageing, Mark Butler, today announced special short term emergency health arrangements for flood-affected areas, including the activation of the Health National Incident Room and special pharmacy arrangements.
“Yesterday we activated the Department of Health and Ageing National Incident Room to ensure we can provide support to state health authorities affected by flooding,” Mr Butler said.
“In addition, together with the Pharmacy Guild, we have taken steps to make sure Australians can still access important medicines in flood-affected areas.
“If patients have lost their medicines, prescriptions or Medicare card because of the floods, they can simply visit their local pharmacy who will be able to provide medications without a prescription.
“Of course, in some areas, pharmacies themselves may be under water. We have also taken steps to authorise pharmacists to operate from temporary facilities if required.
“The Government is also working with national distributors of pharmaceuticals to ensure that medicines can continue to be delivered to flood-affected areas.”
Mr Butler explained the Commonwealth will continue to work with state authorities to support their health and hospital systems.
“Our Chief Medical Officer, Professor Jim Bishop, is in contact with Queensland Health and other affected health authorities about public health measures,” Mr Butler said.
Mr Butler also said last night Professor Bishop had convened a ‘GP Round Table’ to discuss the ongoing primary care needs of the flood-affected regions with primary care peak bodies representing GPs and Practice Nurses. Professor Bishop also took the opportunity to explain to the group the steps the Commonwealth was taking to support flood-affected regions.
For all media inquiries, please contact the Minister's Office on (02) 6277 7280
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