COVID-19 Latest Information

This information is current for the 30^th of November 2023. The State, Territory and Federal governments are continually responding to the ever-changing impact of the Coronavirus. AACMA endeavours to maintain up to date information for members.

For the most up-to-date information please check the Federal Department of Health website

Information by State/Territory

Please ensure that you have the latest information by checking the Australian Capital Territory website

If you require further clarification, please call the COVID-19 helpline on (02) 6207 7244 or the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080

Below are emails that AACMA has sent out to ACT members:

New South Wales

Please ensure that you have the latest information by checking the New South Wales Government website

If you require further clarification, please call Healthdirect on 13 77 88 or the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080

Below are emails that AACMA has sent out to NSW members:

Northern Territory

Please ensure that you have the latest information by checking the Northern Territory Government website

If you require further clarification, please call the NT COVID-19 hotline on 1800 490 484 or the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080

Below are emails that AACMA has sent out to NT members:

NT COVID Update 16^th August 2021

Queensland

Please ensure that you have the latest information by checking the Queensland Government website

If you require further clarification, please call the QLD information line on 13 42 68 or the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080

Below are emails that AACMA has sent out to QLD members:

South Australia

Please ensure that you have the latest information by checking the South Australia Government website

If you require further clarification, please call the SA information line on 1800 253 787 or the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080

Below are emails that AACMA has sent out to South Australian members:

Tasmania

Please ensure that you have the latest information by checking the Tasmanian Government website

If you require further clarification, please call the Tasmanian Public Health Hotline on 1800 671 738 or the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080

Below are emails that AACMA has sent out to Tasmanian members:

Mandatory COVID-19 Vaccination Tasmania - 5^th October 2021

Victoria

Please ensure that you have the latest information by checking the Victorian Government website

If you require further clarification, please call the Victorian COVID Hotline on 1800 675 398 or the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080

Please click here for information on third dose vaccination requirements

Below are emails that AACMA has sent out to Victorian members:

Western Australia

Please ensure that you have the latest information by checking the Western Australia Government website

If you require further clarification, please call the Western Australia COVID helpline on 13 26843 or the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080

Below are emails that AACMA has sent out to WA members:

Mental Health Resources

During this time it is important to take care of your mental health and wellbeing

For personal crisis and mental health support you can contact Lifeline on 13 11 44 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 at any time

For additional information and resources please visit the Head to Health website.

Statement from the President

By Waveny Holland on behalf of the AACMA Board and Office

We are currently trying to cope through extraordinary times and the whole world is involved with us in this rapidly changing environment that is COVID-19. It is very easy to be panicked by the overwhelming media coverage and the restrictions that are being applied to daily lives and potentially our livelihoods.

We are working to provide you with the most recent and relevant information. During this time, we will communicate with members via email, Social Media and on our website. Please ensure that you remain well informed and keep up to date with both Federal and State Health Departments.

COVID-19 AACMA Emails

COVID-19 Resources

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine considered an essential service?

Chinese medicine is a registered health profession and recognised by the Federal Government as allied health. Allied health practitioners are part of the primary care health sector that provides an essential health service to the community.

Should I close my Clinic?

There has been no directive from the government for any allied health service to close or stop providing treatments. Very strict infection control guidelines should be observed in both treatment and waiting rooms and distancing requirements in the waiting room and reception desk. The use of any available personal protective equipment (PPE) gloves, masks etc is advised.

Is it acceptable to close my Clinic?

Yes. All of us, practitioners, authorities and the public alike, are very concerned about COVID-19 and its possible spread. The practice of self care is very important in these times and for you, that may include closing your clinic. We have a responsibility for ourselves and our families to do what is best for us. That gives every practitioner the choice and control over what is best for them – when and if to close and reopen their clinic. Exercise the most suitable choice for you.

Should I be treating people if I have respiratory symptoms?

If you are unwell and potentially contagious, you should not be treating patients.

Should I treat people with respiratory signs or symptoms?

You have the right to refuse to treat a patient. If they have signs and symptoms of COVID-19 or have just returned from overseas and are unwell or fulfil any other criteria for COVID-19, you can/must refer them to their GP for assessment. Here is a link to a self-assessment tool

Can I make online/virtual appointments with patients for a Chinese herbal medicine consultation?

If the patient consents to having an online consultation, it would be appropriate to deliver a consultation via telephone, Zoom, Skype or the like. All necessary practice guidelines such as record keeping and patient confidentiality should be followed. However, at this stage, the Private Health Funds do not provide rebates for online consultations.

Is AACMA lobbying the government for access to Medicare during this time?

AACMA certainly is. We are communicating with the government about this issue and several others at the moment.

Is AACMA still open?

AACMA Head Office is open and operating under reduced staff and hours to comply with social distancing directives. If the office is required to shut down, the best way to contact any AACMA office staff member is via email. aacma@acupuncture.org.au

COVID-19 Latest Information

This information is current for the 30th of November 2023. The State, Territory and Federal governments are continually responding to the ever-changing impact of the Coronavirus. AACMA endeavours to maintain up to date information for members.