Doctors and pathologists say the new referral requirement for PCR testing will disadvantage vulnerable people and leave Australia reliant on inaccurate rapid tests.
Pathologists and doctors are warning that the Albanese government’s decision to require patients to obtain a medical referral for a PCR test could make vulnerable people less likely to get tested for COVID-19.
The plan says there is no public health requirement or recommendation for low-risk individuals to seek a PCR test. Australian Medical Association president Steve Robson said the decision to require a referral for a PCR test was not prudent. Mr Butler also announced on Monday that the government would not extend the 10 extra Medicare-funded psychology sessions that the Morrison government made available to Australians experiencing mental health issues due to the pandemic.
Suicide Prevention Australia chief executive Nieves Murray said the decision to end the additional sessions was “baffling” given pressures families were facing from the rising cost of living.
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