The following information is for physiotherapists working in NSW to align with latest advice regarding COVID-19.
Further NSW Government health information can be found here.
If you do come across FAQs that require attention please email Advocacy Team
Updated 24 March 2021
Updated Restrictions in NSW
NSW Health advice for Home Care Service Providers has been updated (8 January 2021) and is available from the NSW Health website.
This information is directed at NSW Health employees but should be considered for implementation by all providers.
Follow us on Facebook @AustralianPhysiotherapyAssociation for the latest information.
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[accordion title="I live in NSW. What is the latest advice on wearing masks/PPE for APA members?"]
It is recommended for the most up-to-date information on the wearing of masks, to visit the NSW Health website.
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[accordion title="Do patients need to electronically check-in?"]
Containing COVID-19 requires hard work from everyone. Businesses have a particularly important role and must ensure that they have in place and use effective COVID Safety Plans. A critical part of that plan is that businesses are required to record the details of all staff, patients and contractors coming into the practice and this should be done electronically e.g. a QR code. It is an offence not to comply with the Public Health Order. This is to make sure NSW Health Contact Tracers can quickly get in touch with customers who may have visited a location with a confirmed case – which is one of the most effective ways to stop COVID-19 outbreaks.
QR code check-in is strongly encouraged as it is a contactless, hygienic method of collecting details digitally. A free QR code check-in option is available from Service NSW for businesses and organisations that register as COVID Safe. The prompt supply of information to NSW Health makes contact tracing more efficient and helps stop the spread of COVID-19. However, businesses are free to choose any electronic system that meets the record keeping requirements.
Further information regarding electronic check-in and QR codes can be found here.
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[accordion title="Does my practice require a marshall?"]
The intention of the NSW Health directive is to ensure gyms have proper hygiene practices and maintain adequate social distancing.
The definition of what constitutes a 'gym' isn’t clear. However, it makes sense that physio practices with high traffic, those that run groups and classes and/or have large 'gym' spaces demonstrate their commitment to COVID infection control and complete a COVID safe plan. The development of this plan takes a few minutes.
Small practices running individual sessions only and with minimum gym equipment do not necessarily need to do this but may consider it.
Strict hygiene practices and assessing clients before each appointment is crucial. Reassure clients that their appointment can easily be rescheduled so that they are not tempted to attend when ill.
In the case of physio practices, clinicians and group facilitators can be considered marshals.
Further information about gyms operating in NSW and the link to a COVID-safe plan template is available here.
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