A new telephone service is now available to provide specialised advice exclusively for health professionals responsible for the medical care of people with disability diagnosed with COVID-19 or experiencing COVID-19 symptoms. Calls will be answered by health professionals with disability service qualifications and experience working with people with disability. The service will be available on 1800 131 330 between 7am – 11pm (AEST) 7 days a week. The service will be available for a six week trial, at which point it will be assessed based on utilisation and future need. The service aims to support people with disability to receive more tailored support from mainstream health, as specific support may be required to address communication and management issues, such as behaviours of concern and the reduction of risk to the patient and staff involved in the process.
