Last updated 2/5/23

Dear Patients,

The clinic will continue to provide all of our normal services during this epidemic.

This is an FAQ page for issues surrounding the Coronavirus and COVID-19 vaccination.

Please contact us if you have any questions that are not answered below.

Do I need to wear a Mask at the Clinic?

Mask wearing is recommended in our Clinics although this is  no longer compulsory in our waiting room. Some Doctors/Nurses  may  ask that you  wear a mask during your consultation.

If you are experiencing any acute respiratory symptoms, please ensure you are wearing a mask and notify staff on arrival

Can I get the COVID 19 Vaccination?

Yes! Absolutely. This is available at local Pharmacies and some GP Clinics. Details can be found via the links blow. Please discuss any concerns with your doctor

https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/australian-health-services .https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/get-vaccinated

Can I get a Booster dose

All adults can get a booster if it’s been 6 months or longer since their last COVID-19 booster or confirmed infection (whichever is most recent) for additional protection against severe illness from COVID.

This is particularly recommended for people at higher risk of severe illness, including:

• everyone 65 years and over
• everyone 18 years and over with medical comorbidities, disability or complex health needs.

Children and young people aged 5 to 17 years can get a booster dose if:

• they have a health condition that put them at risk of severe illness, and
• if it’s been 6 months since their last dose or COVID-19 infection.

Your doctor can help you decide if your child should receive a booster.

Booster doses are not recommended at this time for children and adolescents under 18 years of age who do not have any risk factors for severe COVID-19.

All vaccines are approved for use in Australia and continue to provide very strong protection against serious illness from COVID-19, however, Omicron-specific bivalent vaccines are preferred for boosters.

Can I get my flu shot?

Yes.  Private and Government flu vaccinations are in stock.

The flu vaccination should be given two weeks apart from your COVID vaccination.

Private vaccinations for people aged 5-64 are $17.

We are running dedicated, exclusive flu vaccination clinics.

You are welcome to ring and book a flu shot at one of these clinics.

I am not sick and am worried about coming into the clinic. 

Eltham and Monty Clinics have taken strong measures to protect our patients and minimise the chance of any infection at our clinics.

Basically, anyone with any respiratory symptoms is not allowed in the clinic buildings.

By doing this, the buildings remain safe for all other General Practice activities to continue.

We have built dedicated outdoor examination areas so that people with respiratory symptoms can be cared for properly but without entering the buildings.

Patients with respiratory symptoms are being asked to wait in their cars.

The buildings and surfaces are having additional, regular cleaning.

Can I get tested for Coronavirus?

Yes. Testing is encouraged for anyone with any symptoms of Coronavirus. This includes runny nose, sore throat, cough, fever, chills, shortness of breath.

Testing is also recommended for people who are close contacts of a confirmed case of COVID-19 or who have returned from overseas.

Rapid Antigen Test kits are easily accessible through a variety of outlets

Our doctors can advise you on the need for a test

Coronavirus Hotline

Call the Coronavirus Hotline if you need help to report a rapid antigen test (RAT) or if you have any questions about COVID-19.

The Victorian Coronavirus Hotline diverts to the National Coronavirus Helpline every night between 4pm and 9am.

Please keep Triple Zero (000) for emergencies only.

Can I have a Telehealth consultation instead of coming into the clinic?

Yes. We are utilising phone and video consultations as well as regular consultations.

Phone consultations are not suitable for all problems. Our reception staff can help you decide what is most appropriate.

Fees can be found here: https://elthamclinic.com.au/fees/

Can I get a repeat prescription without coming into the clinic?

Yes. You may ring to request a Telehealth appointment for your prescription. These consultations are bulk billed.

Alternatively, our online ordering system is available as usual here: https://elthamclinic.com.au/prescriptions/

The fee is $20 and there is no Medicare rebate for this.

What should I do if I have respiratory symptoms (fever, runny nose, cough, sore throat or shortness of breath) and want to see a doctor?

Please ring the clinic. Our reception staff will ask some screening questions and organise an appointment for you.

When you arrive please ring reception 9431 0644. Do not come into the clinic. 

The doctor will phone you when they are ready to see you. Please have your phone line free!

Much of the consultation will happen over the phone.

The doctor will advise where and how to conduct your examination in one of our outdoor examination areas.

Where do I get the official information about Coronavirus?

Here:  https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/

This site is updated daily and answers many questions. Please visit that website and our website before calling the clinic.