Journalists wanting to speak to an ACRRM spokesperson are invited to contact Petrina Smith on 0414 820 847 or email.

The Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) says regular, clear and consistent messaging for health professionals and the general public is vital to managing the outbreak of COVID-19.

ACRRM President Dr Ewen McPhee says the College recognises that has an important role to play in providing advice to both state and federal governments and ensuring members have access to the information and support they require.

“We welcomed the opportunity to participate in the Primary Care Preparedness Forum which was convened by the Chief Medical Officer in Canberra on 6 March,” Dr McPhee says, “and we also acknowledge the Department of Health’s commitment to increased communication.”

Dr McPhee says that clear messaging is especially important given that each state appears to be at a different stage in terms of their disaster response planning.

“This can create confusion and anxiety for health professionals, and it increases the challenge for national organisations such as medical colleges to ensure that members receive the information and advice that is relevant to them

“It is also important that the special needs and circumstances of rural and remote communities and practitioners are considered in all aspects of communication and planning.

“This extends not only to communication, but in providing access to equipment, and developing protocols to cover a range of situations which might not necessarily occur in urban or inner regional settings.”

The College has also written to Ministers Hunt and Coulton to advocate for urgent implementation of MBS support for general practice telephone and videoconference consultations for COVID-19 triage.

“Access to appropriate MBS rebates will reduce the need for patient travel and the associated public health risks and cost imposts, particularly for people in rural and remote communities.

“ACRRM remains committed to working with all levels of government, other stakeholders and, of course, our members, to ensure that rural and remote communities and their doctors are well informed and well prepared to meet upcoming challenges.”