GP pulse oximeter system revamped after low uptake
However, Dr Chris Moy says the devices are 'less important' now patients can access monoclonal antibodies and oral antivirals
Health officials say they have “streamlined” the process for ordering pulse oximeters, revealing that GPs have only received around 25,000 of the 200,000 devices allocated to the specialty.
They are meant to play a role in helping GPs care for older or unvaccinated COVID-19 patients in the community.
Under the revamp, practices will still lodge forms with their primary health network but will now receive the devices — along with PPE orders — directly from the National Medical Stockpile without any intermediary.
AMA vice-president Dr Chris Moy says distribution has been “patchy” so far despite the high numbers of patients needing GP care during the Omicron wave.
