Presidents of Australia’s specialist Medical Colleges met for the 150th meeting of Council on Thursday 18 March 2021 at 6pm (AEST) to discuss the COVID19 pandemic preparedness and management including impact on training and College activities.
CPMC Chair Dr Kym Jenkins noted the situation on the novel coronavirus in Australia and overseas, with an increase of 12 newly confirmed cases (oversea acquired) and no new deaths; however globally there had been approximately 484,000 new cases and 9,200 deaths reported. CPMC noted the cumulative total of 226,000 persons across Australia having received vaccination to-date.
Council welcomed the announcement of a three-year AU$144M program to support Papua New Guinea’s health workers and specifically the National Capital District and its front liners. Council extended its support and appreciation of the efforts of all health care workers in PNG.
CPMC reported on general activity including national and international engagement; the development of a National Medical Workforce Strategy for Australia; and the campaign supporting the stage vaccine rollout program. Ms Magarry advised of a second set of videos planned for mid-April with new participants and a focus also on the importance of obtaining a ‘fluvax’.
Reporting was underway for Phase 1 of the CPMC Training Review project with two reports lodged, a literature review, and a descriptive report reflecting the findings from extensive stakeholder consultation.
Intensive Care provided by Dr Mary Pinder, CICM President, reporting on low numbers in ICU but increased pressure in regional units due to maldistribution of staffing. CICM and the Australian and New Zealand Intensive Care Society have joined to form a global health special interest group with initial support to PNG.
New Zealand plans for stage vaccine rollout expected by end April and the establishment of a trans Tasman travel bubble which will assist in examination processes.
A discussion on health workforce availability and distribution occurred generally and in the context of the importance of managing welfare and burnout management.
The next meeting will be held on 15 April at 6pm.
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Contact: Ms Angela Magarry, ceo@cpmc.edu.au; +61437227422