COVID-19 Updates
Chiropractic Australia is committed to keeping members up-to-date and informed regarding COVID-19 restrictions and what they mean for members and practices.
COVID-19 Updates
Chiropractic Australia is committed to keeping members up-to-date and informed regarding COVID-19 restrictions and what they mean for members and practices.
The below guidance is based on information provided by State and Territory Governments, which Chiropractic Australia understands to be correct as at the time of publication. However this is the interpretation of Chiropractic Australia, the information may be subject to change and we will update our guidance accordingly should this be the case. If you require specific clarification and further details regarding the current restrictions, please visit your local State or Territory Government website.
Chiropractic Australia Position Statement
17/09/2021 | COVID-19 and Mandatory Vaccination
Please find below the latest advice for Victorian Allied Health workers in Metro Melbourne, provided to Chiropractic Australia via the Department of Health.
Following the Premier’s announcement of further easing of restrictions for metro Melbourne aligned to achievement of 70% full vaccination (effective of 11.59pm Thursday 21 October), we have confirmed with Public Health that private practice allied health services will be able to resume routine care (including group interventions) with density quotients/COVIDsafe plans in place.
Further information will be available via the Business Victoria website in the coming days.
01/10/2021 – COVID vaccination requirements for Victorian healthcare workers
Please find below the latest advice regarding COVID vaccination requirements for Victorian healthcare workers, provided to Chiropractic Australia via the Department of Health. For more information regarding Chiropractic Australia’s stance on mandatory vaccinations, please see our Position Statement and Rationale Document.
Healthcare worker update – COVID-19 vaccination requirements
Today the Victorian Chief Health Officer issued a direction requiring Victorian healthcare workers to be vaccinated against COVID-19, recognising the critical role that vaccination plays in the safety of both the workforce and patients.
The formal direction follows the announcement by the Premier on 19 September 2021 that healthcare workers would be the next workforce to have COVID-19 vaccination become a requirement to work, drawing on a recommendation from the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee to National Cabinet.
From 15 October 2021, healthcare workers will be required to have received at least a first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, or an appointment to receive at least their first COVID-19 vaccine by 29 October 2021, or a medical exemption to be able to come to work.
By 15 December 2021, all healthcare workers must provide evidence of their full COVID-19 vaccination of two doses, or a medical exemption by authorised medical practitioner.
Operators of healthcare settings must also keep a record of workers’ vaccination status, in line with the direction issued by the Chief Health Officer.
The COVID-19 vaccine is safe, effective and free. Healthcare workers continue to have priority access for COVID-19 vaccination appointments. To book a reserved appointment, healthcare workers can call the Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398 or contact a GP, pharmacy or community health service.
These measures are part of the Victorian Government’s ongoing efforts to protect healthcare workers and patients from COVID-19.
Further information on the requirement for healthcare workers to be vaccinated can be found here. The formal Chief Health Officer direction can be found here.
Which healthcare workers are required to be vaccinated?
A healthcare worker is a person (including a volunteer or student) that is employed or engaged as a contractor to perform work at a healthcare setting:
Direct Care and Interaction Roles
|
Further to yesterday’s guidance, please see below the amendment provided to Chiropractic Australia by Acting Chief Allied Health Officer – Sharon Downie – regarding the criteria for urgent clinical care: The definition of urgent clinical care for this purpose is: Direct clinical care (and other clinical support activity necessary to support direct clinical care) that prevents a significant change/deterioration in functional independence necessitating escalation of care OR is required as an adjunct to other urgent medical/surgical interventions. For example, urgent clinical care; • that avoids a potential hospital admission or emergency department presentation • that avoids serious acute consequences or acute deterioration • that presents/delays the need for further specialist medical or surgical intervention • that prevents an increase in care needs that would necessitate additional carer supports or change in accommodation needs • that limits secondary complications post surgery • where deferral would lead to long term adverse consequences (i.e.. delays to child development) We would also reinforce that face-to-face group interventions are not permitted in metro Melbourne at this time. 16/08/2021 – Two-Week Lockdown Extension Announced for Metropolitan Melbourne
The current lockdown in Melbourne has been just extended by an additional two weeks – until 11.59pm on Thursday, 2 September – and a curfew will be put in place across Metropolitan Melbourne as of 11.59 pm tonight (16 August 2021). Following the Premier’s announcement today regarding revised public health directions for Metro Melbourne, Chiropractic Australia has been in contact with Acting Chief Allied Health Officer – Sharon Downie – to provide clarification around these restrictions and key terminology in relation to Allied Health Professionals; a summary of this guidance is outlined here. We would also like to remind our Victorian Members that received a business grant under the Business Costs Assistance Program Round Two or the Business Costs Assistance Program Round Two July Extension, that you may also be eligible for the Business Costs Assistance Program Round Three; which serves to provides additional support to eligible small to medium businesses in sectors affected by the current restrictions in metropolitan and regional Victoria. 11/08/2021 – 7-day Lockdown Extension Announced for Metropolitan Melbourne
Victoria’s Chief Health Officer has declared that the current restrictions in metropolitan Melbourne will remain in place until at least 11:59pm, Thursday 19 August. Please visit https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/extended-melbourne-lockdown-keep-victorians-safe for further information. 05/08/2021 – Snap 7-Day Lockdown Announced for Victoria
A snap seven-day lockdown has just been announced for Victoria – going into effect as of 8pm tonight – August 05, 2021. You can find the full details of the restrictions here. Chiropractic Australia has been in contact with Acting Chief Allied Health Officer, Sharon Downie, to provide clarification around these state-wide restrictions and what they mean for Allied Health Professionals; a summary of this guidance is outlined below. Under these settings, clinical care may only be provided by Authorised Workforce. Allied Health professionals are recognised as an authorised workforce for the following services: • Allied health services provided by allied health professionals working as authorised workers in hospitals or in residential care facilities providing critical clinical care or as directed by the hospital; or • Allied health workers 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; or • Allied health services provided by allied health professionals working in private practice providing care through telehealth and other virtual care options; or • Allied health students on placement providing authorised care in hospitals or in residential care facilities, or through telehealth; or • Pharmacies. For this purpose, essential clinical care is defined as: • 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). *Please note that Routine care is not permitted* Specific restrictions for Metro Melbourne & Regional Victoria – at this time – are as follows: Allied Health Intervention –private practice settings • Individual face to face services for essential care – only if care/service is not able to be provided via telehealth • Group face to face interventions not permitted • No restrictions on care/service types provided via telehealth Group Interventions • Group face to face interventions not permitted Movement • Wherever practical, individuals should work at a single practice/clinic • Movement between metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria only as required for authorised work only Face Coverings • Must be carried at all times • Must be worn indoors except if at home, or if an exemption applies • Must be worn outdoors Density Quotient • Applies to all venues and spaces that are accessible to the public (and in closed workplaces, to shared spaces such as lunchrooms) – 1 to 4m2 QR Codes • All businesses and workplaces must ensure all workers and visitors check in using the free Victorian Government QR Code Service; https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/about-victorian-government-qr-code-service • Exemptions to the use of QR codes cited for support groups and health services related to confidentiality are very much focused on significant risk issues (eg. family violence services), and will not apply to the majority of Allied Health services Please note: The above guidance is based on information provided by the Victorian Government as of 5:15pm August 05 2021, which Chiropractic Australia understands to be correct as of this time, however this may be subject to change over the coming days and we will update our guidance accordingly should this be the case. If you require specific clarification and further details regarding the current restrictions, please visit Seven Day Lockdown To Keep Victorians Safe | Premier of Victoria. 30/07/2021 – COVIDSafe and PPE Guidance for Allied Health Professionals
You can find the latest COVIDSafe guidance and an FAQ section specific to Allied Health Professionals at https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/how-we-work-current-restrictions#allied-health-faqs. The most current version of the PPE guidance for Allied Health and private practice is also available at Health care and social assistance sector guidance | Coronavirus Victoria. 27/07/2021 – Easing of Victorian Lockdown Restrictions effective as of 11.59pm tonight (Tuesday 27th July)
As per the Premier’s announcement this morning, changes to the current Victorian lockdown restrictions will come into effect as of 11.59pm tonight – Tuesday 27th July: https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/lockdown-lifted-across-victoria. For both metro Melbourne and regional Victoria, individuals will be able to leave their homes for any reason, however the requirement for COVIDsafe behaviours will remain in place – namely the requirement to wear a mask and check-in to public locations using the QR code system. The Authorised Worker List will no longer apply, meaning businesses and venues can reopen, with industry specific restrictions. 21/07/2021 – New Support For Victorian Businesses
The Victorian Government has announced a range of new supports to bolster communities and businesses most affected by the current restrictions, and further information regarding this additional injection of funds can be found at https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/support-builds-businesses-through-lockdown. Please note: Businesses that previously qualified for – and received – financial support as part of the Business Costs Assistance Package Round Two will automatically receive the additional funding of $2800 (taking total payment to $4,800); there is no need to apply again or take any further action. Businesses that had chosen not to apply for these previous support programs in relation to the May/June lockdown, or had been ineligible to apply but are now eligible, are welcome to apply for July lockdown support payments and will be considered outside of the automatic top-up process. 15/06/2021 – Snap Lockdown in Victoria
A snap 5-day lockdown has just been announced for Victoria – going into effect as of 11:59pm tonight, July 15, 2021 – and these settings are expected to be in place until 11:59pm on Tuesday July 20, 2021. You can find the full details of the restrictions and you can access the full Table of Restrictions here. According the document above, 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 classifed as authorised workers. In addition to the above conditions pertaining to the provision of allied health services, it should also be be noted that face masks must be worn indoors at all times (except at home) and outdoors when it’s not possible to physically distance. 09/06/2021 – Easing of Circuit Breaker Restrictions in Victoria
Chiropractic Australia welcomes the announced easing of restrictions in Victoria – effective as for 11:59pm on Thursday 10 June, 2021 – and the ability for Victorian Chiropractors to return back to work at this time. You can see the full Statement from the Acting Premier here and you can access the full Table of Restrictions here. 27/05/2021 – 7-day Circuit Breaker Restrictions in effect across Victoria
11.59PM THURSDAY 27 MAY to 11.59PM THURSDAY 3 JUNE 2021
7-day Circuit Breaker Restrictions have just been announced for Victoria – going into effect as of 11:59pm tonight – and these settings are expected to be in place until 11:59pm on June 3, 2021. For full details of the restrictions please click here.Chiropractic Australia has been in contact with Donna Markham – Chief Allied Health Officer – to provide clarification around these restrictions and key terminology in relation to Allied Health Professionals; a summary of this guidance is outlined below.
Under these settings, only Authorised Health Services will be permitted, which are defined as;
- Allied Health services provided by allied health professionals working as authorised workers in hospitals or in residential care facilities providing critical clinical care or as directed by the hospital: or
- Allied Health workers 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; or
- Allied Health services provided by allied health professionals working in private practice providing care through telehealth and other virtual care options
- Students, medical/nursing/midwifery/allied health on placement providing authorised care in hospitals or in residential care facilities, or through telehealth.
*Please note that Routine care is not permitted*.
With regards to face-to-face provision of Allied Health services permitted under the 7-day Circuit Breaker Restrictions, essential clinical care is defined as:
- 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).
Due to the recent cases in Melbourne’s northern suburbs, additional COVIDSafe Measures have been put in place in Greater Melbourne. From 6pm tonight (May 25th 2021), face masks will need to be worn by everyone aged 12 years and older when indoors, unless an exemption applies. Victorians who live in Greater Melbourne and need to travel to regional Victoria can still do so however, the restrictions travel with them. As outlined in yesterday’s Member Update Email, use of the Service Victoria QR code service will still be mandatory in all venues and facilities that are required to have mandatory electronic record keeping from Friday, 28 May. What this means for you & your practice:
- All staff and patients over 12 will be required to wear a mask.
- Any Melbourne-based patient attending a clinic outside Greater Melbourne will be required to wear a mask.
- Any person entering your practice needs to sign in via the Service Victoria QR code service from Friday.
07/09/2021 – Mandatory vaccination requirements for allied health professionals in New South Wales
The following information has been provided to Chiropractic Australia by NSW Chief Allied Health Officer, Andrew Davison.
The information below includes:
- Vaccination requirements for employees that work in healthcare facilities
- Vaccination requirements for authorised workers
- Travel registration requirements for authorised workers to leave Greater Sydney or enter /leave an LGA of concern.
- Vaccination requirements for aged care workers and others who work in or enter aged care facilities
- Vaccination requirements for disability and early childhood care workers
- Vaccination requirements for allied health professionals working in private practices
- Evidence of vaccination or exemption
Vaccination requirements for employees that work in healthcare facilities
From 30 September 2021, all healthcare workers in public and private healthcare facilities must have had their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine to continue working in those facilities (or have evidence of a medical exemption).
From 14 November 2021, healthcare workers must be fully vaccinated (two doses) to continue to work.
Who is considered a healthcare worker?
The mandatory vaccination requirement will apply to all staff* working in connection with a health agency, including:
- Public Health Organisations (Local Health Districts, Specialty Health Networks (SHNs), Pillars and Affiliated Health Organisations**)
- NSW Ministry of Health
- Health Administration Corporation (HAC) entities, Ambulance Service, NSW Health Pathology, HealthShare, Health Protection, Health Infrastructure, Health Professionals Councils Authority (HPCA)
- All staff working at a Private Health Facility (licensed under the Private Health Facilities Act**) both private hospitals and day procedures
- Students in clinical placements in private facilities.
Note:
*Staff includes employees, Visiting Medical Officers (VMOs), volunteers, contractors, and students. Work is defined broadly to cover employees, contractors, VMOs, visiting practitioners, volunteers and students undertaking clinical placements. The Order does not include private primary care providers such as GPs. Disability workers and aged care workers are covered by different public health orders and have different requirements.
** Private health facilities and affiliated health organisation are defined by the Private Health Facilities Act and Health Services Act 1997, respectively. See attached table of affiliated organisations.
Vaccination requirements for authorised workers.
All Allied Health Professionals as considered authorised workers under the Public Health Order.
From 9 September 2021, authorised workers who live in an LGA of concern must not leave their LGA for work unless they have:
- had at least 1 dose of a COVID-19 vaccine or evidence of a medical exemption (in a form approved by NSW Health), or
- an appointment booked to be vaccinated on or before 19 September 2021 and have evidence of the appointment.
Information about priority vaccination for authorised workers can be found here: https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/health-and-wellbeing/covid-19-vaccination-nsw/authorised-workers
Travel registration requirements for authorised workers to leave Greater Sydney or enter /leave a LGA of concern.
From Saturday 28 August 2021, authorised workers must register when travelling outside of Greater Sydney or/and when leaving or entering a local government area of concern for work.
Details about registering travel can be found here: https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/rules/travel-registration
Vaccination requirements for aged care workers and others who work in or enter aged care facilities
From 9am on 17 September 2021, employees of operators of facilities or a person who provides services for the facility for one or more residents (whether or not they are engaged by the facility) must not enter or remain on the premises of a residential aged care facility unless they have had at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine or provide evidence of a medical exemption.
Note: This does not include maintenance contractors, service providers engaged directly by individual residents, or students
From 9am on 31 October 2021, a health practitioner or a student who is not included in the categories listed above must not enter or remain on the premises of a residential aged care facility unless they have had at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, or provide evidence of a medical exemption (in a form approved by NSW Health).
The obligation does not apply to a health practitioner who enters a residential aged care facility to respond to a medical emergency.
Vaccination requirements for disability and early childhood care workers
From 9 September 2021, disability and early childhood care workers who live or works in a LGA of concern must not enter their place of work or provide service to someone with a disability unless they have:
- had at least 1 dose of a COVID-19 vaccine or evidence of a medical exemption (in a form approved by NSW Health), or
- an appointment booked to be vaccinated on or before 19 September 2021 and have evidence of the appointment.
From 20 September they must had at least 1 dose of a COVID-19 vaccine or evidence of a medical exemption (in a form approved by NSW Health)
Note: Advice from the NSW Public Health Response Branch is that this would include Allied Health Professionals providing services to people with a disability.
Vaccination requirements for Allied Health Professionals working in private practices
Vaccination for COVID-19 is now mandatory for many health practitioners, including allied health professionals working in various health settings and patient groups (as noted above).
Currently there is no mandatory requirement under the NSW Public Health Order for allied health professionals to be vaccinated who only work in a private practice if they do not provide services in healthcare or aged care facilities or live or/and work in an LGA of concern. It is strongly recommended that all health practitioners are vaccinate including those where vaccination is not mandated.
Evidence of vaccination or exemption
Allied health professionals who are required to be vaccinated must:
- carry evidence of vaccination or medical exemption and their address
- produce the evidence to their employer, the occupier of their place of work, a police officer or an authorised officer, if requested.
Evidence of a medical exemption must be from a medical practitioner in the form approved by the NSW Chief Health Officer.
Evidence of vaccination can include an:
- online immunisation history statement or
- COVID-19 digital certificate from the Australian Immunisation Register
16/08/2021 – Current Restrictions across New South Wales
All of New South Wales remains under stay-at-home restrictions, with special rules remaining in place for local government areas of concern in Greater Sydney – including Bayside, Blacktown, Burwood, Campbelltown, Canterbury-Bankstown, Cumberland, Fairfield, Georges River, Liverpool, Parramatta, Strathfield, and some suburbs of Penrith.
Chiropractic Australia has spoken with NSW Chief Allied Health Officer, Andrew Davison, who reiterated his previous advice to practitioners outlined below;
“It is really important that all health practitioners encourage their patients to stay at home and where possible avoid face to face services and contact. Only if not providing the service is likely to result in a deterioration in someone’s health and it cannot be delayed or provided via telehealth should a face to face service be provided as a last resort.”
For further information, please visit nsw.gov.au/covid-19/rules.
26/07/2021 – Restrictions and Requirements for Western Sydney
Chiropractic Australia has spoken with NSW Chief Allied Health Officer – Andrew Davison – to clarify the testing requirements for authorised health workers in affected local government areas across Western Sydney. A summary of this advice is as follows.
Canterbury-Bankstown aged care and health worker COVID-19 testing
From the beginning of 23 July, if you live in or are staying in the Canterbury-Bankstown local government area but you work outside this area, you must have a COVID-19 test once every 72 hours (3 days) in order to be allowed to go to work as an aged care or health worker.
Fairfield COVID-19 testing
If you live in or are staying in the Fairfield local government area but you work outside this area, you must have a COVID-19 test once every 72 hours (3 days) in order to be allowed to go to work as an authorised worker.
For more information about the current restrictions and requirements in Western Sydney, and further details regarding the mandatory testing process, please visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/rules/greater-sydney.
19/07/2021 – Correspondence from the NSW Chief Health Officer
Please follow this link to read the recent letter from the NSW Chief Health Officer – Dr Kerry Chant – to NSW Health Practitioners with regard to the COVID-19 restrictions currently in place across the state.
12/07/2021 – Service NSW QR code
Stay at home orders apply to Greater Sydney including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour until 11.59pm on Friday, 9 July 2021.
As of Monday 12 July 2021, the use of the Service NSW QR code is mandatory at all workplaces and retail businesses from as per the update found here. For visitors without a digital device, other check-in forms must be available. You can register your business as COVID Safe and to apply for a QR code here.
From 6pm on Saturday 26 June, the stay at home direction applies to people who live in, usually work in, or usually attend a university or other tertiary education facility in Greater Sydney including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour local government areas until 11:59pm on Friday 16 July 2021. The requirement to wear a face mask in all indoor areas of non-residential premises is still in effect. In addition wearing a face mask in all indoor areas, you must also wear a face mask:
- • at certain outdoor gatherings
- • if you are on public transport
- • in a major recreation facility such as a stadium or
- • if you are working in a hospitality venue
We acknowledge the challenges COVID-19 continues to have on our community, we encourage you to continue to visit NSW Health for the latest updates.
30/06/2021 – Stay at Home Orders – Greater Sydney
Please be aware that display and use of the Service NSW QR code will be mandatory at all workplaces and retail businesses from Monday, 12 July 2021 as per the update found here.
To register your business as COVID Safe and to apply for a QR code, visit
here.
For visitors without a digital device, other check-in forms must be available.
The requirement to wear a face mask in all indoor areas of non-residential premises that was recently applied in Greater Sydney has been extended to all of NSW until at least 9th July in line with current restrictions.
As well as wearing a face mask in all indoor areas, you must also wear a face mask:
- at certain outdoor gatherings
- if you are on public transport
- in a major recreation facility such as a stadium or
- if you are working in a hospitality venue
We acknowledge the challenges COVID-19 continues to have on our community, we encourage you to continue to visit NSW Health via
Chiropractic Australia, as the peak body for the Chiropractic Community, continues to liaise with government departments in relation to the impacts of COVID-19. We will continue to share information as it comes to light and will provide this on our website.
30/06/2021 –
Stay at Home Orders – Greater Sydney
Stay at home orders apply to Greater Sydney including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour until 11.59pm on Friday, 9 July 2021.
- If you can work from home, you must.
- If you cannot work from home, you are allowed to only travel to and from work.
- Chiropractors and Osteopaths and their patients must wear masks
The lockdown in the Australian Capital Territory has today been extended by two weeks after 19 new local cases were detected, with current restrictions expected to be in place until at least September 2, 2021. Please visit Lockdown in the ACT – COVID-19 for the latest updates and current restrictions for Allied Health Practitioners.
As of 6:00 pm, 20 July 2021, Level 5 restrictions are now in effect across South Australia as a measure to control the spread of COVID-19 in the state. With regards to provision of care by chiropractic practitioners and other allied health professionals, it is important to note that only essential health services are authorised at this time.
According to the current settings outlined by the SA Government, accessible at Current activity restrictions | SA.GOV.AU: COVID-19, the following are classified as essential health services;
– Allied health services provided by allied health professionals working as authorised workers in hospitals providing critical clinical care or as directed by the hospital
– Allied health services provided by allied health professionals working in private practice providing care through telehealth and other virtual care options
– Students, medical/nursing/midwifery/allied health on placement providing essential care in hospitals or through telehealth
– Allied health services in the aged care or disability sector
– Allied health services for relief of chronic pain
For more information, please visit https://www.covid-19.sa.gov.au/.
30/06/2021
Please be reminded that Chiropractors and Osteopaths and their patients must wear masks. For full details of the restrictions, click here.
- If you can work from home, you must.
- If you cannot work from home, you are allowed to only travel to and from work.
- Chiropractors and Osteopaths and their patients must wear masks
25/03/2021 – COVID-19: Update On WA Lockdown Information for Allied Health Professionals
Stay at Home and Closure Directions are now in effect across Perth, Peel and Rottnest, with these new restrictions expected – on the most recent advice – to last until 12:01 am on Tuesday, 27 April 2021. In line with the limited exceptions outlined in section 41J (ii) of the Emergency Management Act 2005 (WA), Chiropractic Australia is encouraging practitioners in the region to provide services via telehealth where possible over the three-day lockdown period. Chiropractic practitioners in WA should also refer to the official directions from the WA Government for specific details regarding provisional exceptions for face-to-face service delivery permitted under the conditions of ‘essential health service’ as described in paragraph 41J (i) of the document accessible here. Chiropractic Australia is committed to keeping members up-to-date and informed about the current situation in Western Australia, and will continue to update those affected as new details come to hand.
In addition to the hospitality sector, from 9 July 2021 the Check In Qld app will be mandatory for a number of new sectors. For the full the full list, click here. By definition, chiropractic and osteopathy falls under the category of Massage (therapeutic) and practitioners will therefore be required to display and use the Check In QLD app. To apply for your QR code, click here. For visitors without a digital device, other check-in forms must be available using a method outlined in paragraphs 13 and 14 of the previous page link. We acknowledge the challenges COVID-19 continues to have on our community, we encourage you to continue to visit QLD Health. Chiropractic Australia, as the peak body for the Chiropractic Community, continues to liaise with government departments in relation to the impacts of COVID-19. We will continue to share information as it comes to light and will provide this on our website.
- Noosa
- Sunshine Coast
- Ipswich
- Logan
- Redlands
- Moreton Bay
- Brisbane
- Gold Coast
- Scenic Rim
- Lockyer Valley
- Somerset
- Townsville City
- Palm Island Aboriginal Shire
A joint statement from the 15 National Boards and AHPRA has been published about the National Boards’ expectations of Australian registered health practitioners and COVID-19 vaccination. The statement explains how the Boards’ existing regulatory frameworks apply to COVID-19 vaccination. This statement should be read in conjunction with the standards, codes, guidelines, position statements and other guidance published by National Boards including for chiropractors the Statement on the provision of health information which contains important information for chiropractors on vaccination and information sharing. Vaccination is a crucial part of the public health response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many registered health practitioners will have a vital role in COVID-19 vaccination programs and in educating the public about the importance and safety of COVID-19 vaccines to ensure high participation rates. The position statement explains how the National Boards’ existing regulatory frameworks apply to COVID-19 vaccination and states the National Boards’ expectations of Australian registered health practitioners in regard to: being vaccinated against COVID-19, administering COVID-19 vaccines, and providing advice and information about COVID-19 vaccination. This statement will be found on the Chiropractic Board of Australia website here.
The below guidance is based on information provided by State and Territory Governments, which Chiropractic Australia understands to be correct as at the time of publication. However this is the interpretation of Chiropractic Australia, the information may be subject to change and we will update our guidance accordingly should this be the case. If you require specific clarification and further details regarding the current restrictions, please visit your local State or Territory Government website.
15/06/2021 – Snap Lockdown in Victoria
A snap 5-day lockdown has just been announced for Victoria – going into effect as of 11:59pm tonight, July 15, 2021 – and these settings are expected to be in place until 11:59pm on Tuesday July 20, 2021. You can find the full details of the restrictions and you can access the full Table of Restrictions here.
According the document above, 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 classifed as authorised workers.
In addition to the above conditions pertaining to the provision of allied health services, it should also be be noted that face masks must be worn indoors at all times (except at home) and outdoors when it’s not possible to physically distance.
09/06/2021 – Easing of Circuit Breaker Restrictions in Victoria
Chiropractic Australia welcomes the announced easing of restrictions in Victoria – effective as for 11:59pm on Thursday 10 June, 2021 – and the ability for Victorian Chiropractors to return back to work at this time. You can see the full Statement from the Acting Premier
here and you can access the full Table of Restrictions here.
27/05/2021 – 7-day Circuit Breaker Restrictions in effect across Victoria
11.59PM THURSDAY 27 MAY to 11.59PM THURSDAY 3 JUNE 2021
7-day Circuit Breaker Restrictions have just been announced for Victoria – going into effect as of 11:59pm tonight – and these settings are expected to be in place until 11:59pm on June 3, 2021. For full details of the restrictions please click here.
Chiropractic Australia has been in contact with Donna Markham – Chief Allied Health Officer – to provide clarification around these restrictions and key terminology in relation to Allied Health Professionals; a summary of this guidance is outlined below.
Under these settings, only Authorised Health Services will be permitted, which are defined as;
- Allied Health services provided by allied health professionals working as authorised workers in hospitals or in residential care facilities providing critical clinical care or as directed by the hospital: or
- Allied Health workers 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; or
- Allied Health services provided by allied health professionals working in private practice providing care through telehealth and other virtual care options
- Students, medical/nursing/midwifery/allied health on placement providing authorised care in hospitals or in residential care facilities, or through telehealth.
*Please note that Routine care is not permitted*.
With regards to face-to-face provision of Allied Health services permitted under the 7-day Circuit Breaker Restrictions, essential clinical care is defined as:
- 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).
25/05/2021 – Additional COVIDSafe Measures for Greater Melbourne
Due to the recent cases in Melbourne’s northern suburbs, additional COVIDSafe Measures have been put in place in Greater Melbourne.
From 6pm tonight (May 25th 2021), face masks will need to be worn by everyone aged 12 years and older when indoors, unless an exemption applies.
Victorians who live in Greater Melbourne and need to travel to regional Victoria can still do so however, the restrictions travel with them. As outlined in yesterday’s Member Update Email, use of the Service Victoria QR code service will still be mandatory in all venues and facilities that are required to have mandatory electronic record keeping from Friday, 28 May.
What this means for you & your practice:
- All staff and patients over 12 will be required to wear a mask.
- Any Melbourne-based patient attending a clinic outside Greater Melbourne will be required to wear a mask.
- Any person entering your practice needs to sign in via the Service Victoria QR code service from Friday.
For further details about the additional COVIDSafe settings taking effect at 6pm tonight, please click here.
Please follow this link to read the recent letter from the NSW Chief Health Officer – Dr Kerry Chant – to NSW Health Practitioners with regard to the COVID-19 restrictions currently in place across the state.
12/07/2021 – Service NSW QR code
Stay at home orders apply to Greater Sydney including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour until 11.59pm on Friday, 9 July 2021.
As of Monday 12 July 2021, the use of the Service NSW QR code is mandatory at all workplaces and retail businesses from as per the update found here. For visitors without a digital device, other check-in forms must be available. You can register your business as COVID Safe and to apply for a QR code here.
From 6pm on Saturday 26 June, the stay at home direction applies to people who live in, usually work in, or usually attend a university or other tertiary education facility in Greater Sydney including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour local government areas until 11:59pm on Friday 16 July 2021. The requirement to wear a face mask in all indoor areas of non-residential premises is still in effect. In addition wearing a face mask in all indoor areas, you must also wear a face mask:
-
• at certain outdoor gatherings
• if you are on public transport
• in a major recreation facility such as a stadium or
• if you are working in a hospitality venue
We acknowledge the challenges COVID-19 continues to have on our community, we encourage you to continue to visit NSW Health for the latest updates.
Please be aware that display and use of the Service NSW QR code will be mandatory at all workplaces and retail businesses from Monday, 12 July 2021 as per the update found here.
To register your business as COVID Safe and to apply for a QR code, visit here. For visitors without a digital device, other check-in forms must be available. The requirement to wear a face mask in all indoor areas of non-residential premises that was recently applied in Greater Sydney has been extended to all of NSW until at least 9th July in line with current restrictions.
As well as wearing a face mask in all indoor areas, you must also wear a face mask:
- at certain outdoor gatherings
- if you are on public transport
- in a major recreation facility such as a stadium or
- if you are working in a hospitality venue
30/06/2021 – Stay at Home Orders – Greater Sydney
Stay at home orders apply to Greater Sydney including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour until 11.59pm on Friday, 9 July 2021.
- If you can work from home, you must.
- If you cannot work from home, you are allowed to only travel to and from work.
- Chiropractors and Osteopaths and their patients must wear masks
Please be reminded that Chiropractors and Osteopaths and their patients must wear masks.
For full details of the restrictions, click here.
- If you can work from home, you must.
- If you cannot work from home, you are allowed to only travel to and from work.
- Chiropractors and Osteopaths and their patients must wear masks
25/03/2021 – COVID-19: Update On WA Lockdown Information for Allied Health Professionals
Stay at Home and Closure Directions are now in effect across Perth, Peel and Rottnest, with these new restrictions expected – on the most recent advice – to last until 12:01 am on Tuesday, 27 April 2021. In line with the limited exceptions outlined in section 41J (ii) of the Emergency Management Act 2005 (WA), Chiropractic Australia is encouraging practitioners in the region to provide services via telehealth where possible over the three-day lockdown period. Chiropractic practitioners in WA should also refer to the official directions from the WA Government for specific details regarding provisional exceptions for face-to-face service delivery permitted under the conditions of ‘essential health service’ as described in paragraph 41J (i) of the document accessible here. Chiropractic Australia is committed to keeping members up-to-date and informed about the current situation in Western Australia, and will continue to update those affected as new details come to hand.
In addition to the hospitality sector, from 9 July 2021 the Check In Qld app will be mandatory for a number of new sectors. For the full the full list, click here. By definition, chiropractic and osteopathy falls under the category of Massage (therapeutic) and practitioners will therefore be required to display and use the Check In QLD app. To apply for your QR code, click here. For visitors without a digital device, other check-in forms must be available using a method outlined in paragraphs 13 and 14 of the previous page link. We acknowledge the challenges COVID-19 continues to have on our community, we encourage you to continue to visit QLD Health. Chiropractic Australia, as the peak body for the Chiropractic Community, continues to liaise with government departments in relation to the impacts of COVID-19. We will continue to share information as it comes to light and will provide this on our website.
- Noosa
- Sunshine Coast
- Ipswich
- Logan
- Redlands
- Moreton Bay
- Brisbane
- Gold Coast
- Scenic Rim
- Lockyer Valley
- Somerset
- Townsville City
- Palm Island Aboriginal Shire
A joint statement from the 15 National Boards and AHPRA has been published about the National Boards’ expectations of Australian registered health practitioners and COVID-19 vaccination. The statement explains how the Boards’ existing regulatory frameworks apply to COVID-19 vaccination. This statement should be read in conjunction with the standards, codes, guidelines, position statements and other guidance published by National Boards including for chiropractors the Statement on the provision of health information which contains important information for chiropractors on vaccination and information sharing. Vaccination is a crucial part of the public health response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many registered health practitioners will have a vital role in COVID-19 vaccination programs and in educating the public about the importance and safety of COVID-19 vaccines to ensure high participation rates. The position statement explains how the National Boards’ existing regulatory frameworks apply to COVID-19 vaccination and states the National Boards’ expectations of Australian registered health practitioners in regard to: being vaccinated against COVID-19, administering COVID-19 vaccines, and providing advice and information about COVID-19 vaccination. This statement will be found on the Chiropractic Board of Australia website here.
