As Australia’s coronavirus infection rate falls, National Cabinet has today lifted some COVID-19 restrictions on elective surgery.
Victorian Liberal Senator Sarah Henderson says the resumption of elective surgery after Anzac Day is a step in the right direction as Australians make great strides in flattening the COVID-19 curve.
The lifting of restrictions will see a re-opening of around 25 per cent of activity in elective surgery in private and public hospitals.
“Category 2 and some category 2 elective surgery will be permitted including some very important procedures such as IVF and colonoscopies,” Senator Henderson said.
Other areas where restrictions will be lifted include post-cancer reconstructive surgeries, all procedures for children under the age of 18, all joint replacements, and cataract and eye procedures.
“Today is an important day on the road to recovery following National Cabinet’s announcement of a resumption of some elective surgery,” Senator Henderson said.
“We now have a sustained flattening of the curve with less than 1 per cent growth in cases for nine consecutive days.
“Thanks to the hard work of all Australians, we are on the road back.
“We have reached a major turning point today with the return of some elective surgery.
“This is a collective national effort and I want to say a huge thank you for what everyone has been doing in regional Victoria to help make this happen.”
21 April 2020.