$2.4 billion Federal Government package for coronavirus relief announced to be unveiled
A Federal Government fund to combat coronavirus is expected to be unveiled this week, as the State Government also prepares its own stimulus package.
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A hundred pop-up respiratory clinics, and bulk-billing medical appointments done by video so sick people can stay at home, will be part of a $2.4 billion Federal Government package to combat the spread of coronavirus.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison is this week expected to announce $205 million for the clinics, to be placed in places of highest need around the country and each see 75 patients a day, as “one-stop shops” for people concerned they have the virus.
They are designed to complement clinics already established by the states, and divert people from emergency departments so hospitals can concentrate on the most serious cases.
Meanwhile, the State Government is preparing to announce a jobs and economic stimulus package worth “hundreds of millions of dollars”.
“This is a very serious disease but we can’t shut up shop here in South Australia,” Premier Steven Marshall said.
“I’ve got a responsibility also to the people of this state that we don’t pull a massive handbrake on our economy in South Australia. In fact, Cabinet at the moment is considering a very serious state-based package.”
Under the federal health plan, clinics will be set up in existing GP practices, which will be given up to $150,000 each to offset loss of normal business. A new Medicare item will ensure people self-isolating at home can receive bulkbilled medical, nursing and mental health services electronically.
Costing $100 million, the telehealth services will be available to people self-isolating on the advice of a medical practitioner, anyone aged over 70, Aboriginal people aged over 50, pregnant women and parents of newborns, and those with chronic health conditions. A $30 million national communications campaign will be launched within days.
“We’re ensuring our health system is well prepared and has the resources it needs for our fight against coronavirus,” Mr Morrison will say this week.
“Australia isn’t immune but with this $2.4 billion boost we’re as well prepared as any country in the world.
“This package is about preventing and treating coronavirus in the coming weeks.”
Adelaide City Council has launched a $150,000 campaign called #myadelaide to lure more people to the CBD and support traders feeling the impact of a trade downturn because of coronavirus.
It will also consider reducing parking costs as part of the campaign.