Flood Response
April 2024 Flood Disaster
The severe weather and flooding impacting our region from the 5 April has resulted in all four of our local government areas, including the Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury, Lithgow and Penrith, being natural disaster-declared areas. This means that there may be a funding available for impacted communities through the joint federal and state governments Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
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Continued Dispensing
Continued Dispensing is the supply of an eligible medicine to a person by an approved pharmacist, where there is an immediate need for the medicine, but where it is not practicable to obtain a valid PBS prescription - like in the event of a disaster. The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia has guidance on the supply of medicines under the Continued Dispensing arrangements. More information for pharmacists about supplying and claiming under Continued Dispensing of PBS Medicines in Defined Circumstances can be found on the Service Australia website.
Cold Chain Management
There is an increased risk of cold chain management breaches during flooding and storm events due to power failures. Practices should ensure that their cold chain management procedures are in place. All immunisation providers must have an up-to-date cold chain protocol to support staff in the event of a breach.
Mental Health Support
Psychological Therapy Services available to anyone in our region experiencing high levels of distress resulting from the previous floods and heightened by current flood warnings.
