Access the COVID-19 Online Antiviral GP Script Service today!

August 7, 2024
Featured image for “Access the COVID-19 Online Antiviral GP Script Service today!”Featured image for “Access the COVID-19 Online Antiviral GP Script Service today!”
COVID-19 activity has rapidly increased over the last few weeks, as has emergency department admissions for influenza. Everyone can help reduce the spread of respiratory pathogens through simple measures such as staying at home if unwell, wearing a mask if you need to go out, and staying up to date with recommended vaccinations. The single most effective measure is regular handwashing.
Certain groups of people with identified risk factors, are recommended to have a COVID-19 booster. To check if you are eligible to receive a COVID-19 booster, use this tool.
See if you are eligible to receive a COVID-19 booster
If you have tested positive for COVID-19, you may be at risk of severe illness or hospitalisation, depending on your age and/or medical history. If you feel you are at risk and are eligible to receive oral antivirals for a COVID-19 infection (see below), please contact us.

Alternatively, if you don't have a regular GP or having trouble securing an appointment within 24 hours, you could use the online COVID-19 Antiviral GP Script Service if you have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 5 days. You will need to fill in the quick online registration form, and they will endeavour to call you back as soon as possible to complete the consultation via phone or a HealthDirect video call. All prescriptions are sent as e-scripts, via sms or email, at the conclusion of the Telehealth consultation, which typically takes 10-20 minutes. This service is available 7 days per week from 8.30am to 11.30pm.

Can't get an appointment, use the COVID-19 Script Service

Eligibility for oral COVID-19 antiviral treatments include:

Older Australians and First Nations People

  • 70 years and older, regardless of risk factors and with or without symptoms
  • 50 years and older with two additional risk factors for developing severe disease
  • First Nations people, 30 years and older with one additional risk factor for developing severe disease
    Risk factors include:

    • living in residential aged care
    • living with disability with multiple conditions and/or frailty (but not limited to living in supported accommodation)
    • neurological conditions like stroke or dementia and demyelinating conditions, for example, multiple sclerosis, Guillain-Barre Syndrome
    • chronic respiratory conditions including COPD, moderate or severe asthma
    • obesity or diabetes (type I or II requiring medication)
    • heart failure, coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathies
    • kidney failure or cirrhosis
    • living remotely with reduced access to higher level healthcare
    People aged 18 years and older

    • if you have previously been hospitalised from COVID-19 and are re-infected
    • are moderately to severely immunocompromised
        Have you had your COVID-19 booster and/or your annual influenza vaccination. These are available at your local general practice surgery or some pharmacies. You can book online at Queen Street Medical Centre for your annual flu shot, whilst also receiving a covid booster if you are eligible.

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