ATAGI statement 17th June 2021
COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca can be used in adults aged under 60 years for whom..
- Comirnaty (Pfizer) is not available,
- the benefits are likely to outweigh the risks for that individual and,
- the person has made an informed decision based on an understanding of the risks and benefits.
28th June 2021: Scott Morrison announces a new Medicare rebate to be available to cover a GP appointment to discus AstraZeneca for the under 50s.
“People aged under 50 will be able to use Medicare for a vaccine consultation with a doctor, bringing them in line with older Australians.”
This is expected to be available from early July.
He also said that if they wish to speak to their doctor and have access to the AstraZeneca vaccine, they can do so.
The media has reported that this means anyone under 40 can now get the AstraZeneca vaccine. This has caused many GPs to be inundated with booking requests even though the facility is not yet set up.
Media reports are now saying that the public are now confused.
Health Minister Greg Hunt said the medical advice has been clear that people could elect to have the AstraZeneca vaccine after being informed of the risks. (See the ATGI 17th June Report).
It is also reported that the Australian Medical Association say they were not consulted before the prime minister announced the policy changes on Monday 28th June. The policy that is explained in the 17th June ATAGI report.
There is definitely some confusion, but it was clear on the 17th, almost 2 weeks ago.