REPRESENTATIVE of a number of Australian health bodies are calling on patients to put their health first and not put off visits to the GP or allied health professional.
In an open letter signed by a number of peak professional bodies and advocacy groups, including the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA), raised concerns about patients postponing treatment and testing in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
"COVID-19 caught us by surprise, testing our health system and testing our country in many ways," the letter said.
"The good news is that the actions taken to "flatten the curve" and reduce the spread of COVID-19 are working -- but now we need to take action to avoid a second wave of health problems.
"Understandably, during our lockdown the rates of visits to general practice, allied health professionals and emergency departments have dropped.
"There has also been a large drop of about 40% in the number of pathology tests being done.
"These are tests such as blood, urine or tests on body tissue ordered by your healthcare professionals.
"While we continue to be careful and take the recommended precautions to protect our community against COVID-19, it's important to look after the other aspects of our healthcare, and Australia's world-class healthcare professionals are here to help you do that.
"Before COVID-19 struck, we were already concerned that the number of people getting cancer screening tests was too low.
"We also knew that early detection and monitoring for type 2 diabetes, heart disease and kidney disease were lacking, with large numbers of undiagnosed cases. COVID-19 has made these existing problems even worse.
"Postponing a visit to a health professional or a pathology test might seem OK, but cancer, diabetes and kidney disease do not stop during COVID-19.
"We need to avoid delays to ensure any new symptoms get checked and diagnosed quickly, and to ensure we monitor existing conditions.
"So, if you have put off a visit to general practice, an allied health professional or a pathology test - don't delay any further.
"It could save your life.
"We understand you may have questions about how you can access the care you need safely, we encourage you to contact your health services and ask those questions.
"So please get in touch, make that call, or book an appointment today. Cancer, heart disease, diabetes and kidney disease won't wait, so neither should you."
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 09 Jun 20
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