Weather event creates chaos for doctors

Floods have devastated parts of NSW and Queensland, and some MDA National Members’ practices have flooded. Members have reported practices completely under water, no access to medical records, and loss of backup servers. Staff have lost homes, been trapped by floodwater, and are volunteering at evacuation centres.

Immediate considerations for those affected include:

• access to medical records and backup (IT support may be needed)
• access to incoming email (e.g. for pathology results - may need to contact pathology labs)
• identifying 'red flag' patients
• relocating medicines if power cuts have impacted cold chain
• insurance and financial arrangements
• communication with staff and patients
• psychological support.

Resources:

• ACRRM Natural disaster readiness and recovery includes a Flood Action Plan from a practice that has been flooded

• MDA National Disaster preparation and recovery

• RACGP has resources on managing emergencies, including a fact sheet on Flooding and its impact on the community

• Aust government Assistance for businesses affected by floods

MDA National is here to support and advise you during the floods and the recovery process. 

Please contact MDA National’s Medico-legal Advisory team on 1800 011 255 for advice specific to your situation.

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This blog contains general information only. We recommend you contact your medical defence organisation or insurer when you require specific advice in relation to medico-legal matters.