Warning many GPs may turn completely to telehealth amid lack of clarity over Covid rules

GPs say a lack of clarity on handling the expected Covid surge from November 23 may force some to completely change how they operate.

Some GPs may move to telehealth only consultations as Covid hits in order to keep their practices open, officials warn.

Lack of clarity on issues including what personal protective equipment is appropriate means some may simply skip face-to-face consultations to stop their practices being shut if visited by a Covid-positive case.

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners is calling on the state government to provide GPs with far greater detail on how to care for patients once Covid case numbers spike.

Officials wrote to chief public health officer Professor Nicola Spurrier on November 11 expressing concerns about the lack of clarity for general practice but are yet to receive a reply.

The letter called for government funding for GPs to access appropriate PPE, clarity on what sort of mask and PPE is acceptable to avoid practices being closed down, and what period of exposure is considered “high risk”.

RACGP deputy SA and NT chair Dr Sian Goodson said “time was running out” and some GPs would err on the side of caution by switching to telehealth.

“Some practices will conduct all consultations via telehealth to avoid exposure to the virus and potential furloughing of the entire practice,” she said.

“However, this is not a practical option for all consults, particularly since some do need to occur in person.

“If a Covid-19-positive patient or a close contact visits a general practice, we need to know what our responsibilities are.”

Dr Goodson warned “the consequences could prove dire” as case numbers surge and GPs continue to have their usual patient caseload while risking being shut down.

“Right now we just simply do not have the guidance to perform our crucial role,” she said. “That must occur now because time is running out. Borders are opening on November 23 and Covid-19 case numbers in South Australia are going to surge.

“We urgently need more support and guidance so that we are well prepared to care for patients once case numbers spike in the community.”

Dr Goodson noted GPs had adapted to the widespread use of telehealth consultations and remained the backbone of the nation’s vaccine rollout.

“We are ready to follow the rules,” she said. “The only problem is that we don’t know what the rules will be and that must change now.”

The government released its primary care strategy on Tuesday night.