COVID-19

As the situation unfolds in Australia and New Zealand we are in a relatively good situation compared to international settings. Our thoughts go to colleagues working in other countries, and we note some of the work that is being done by the International Spinal Cord Society (ISCoS), of which we have some ANZSCoS members sharing their knowledge in respective working parties.

ANZSCoS acknowledges some helpful resources that are now available online. We appreciate that while some information can be generalised to all settings some may be specific to the region in they come from, so we encourage people to be mindful of this. The Queensland SCI Service (QSCIS) have a number of resources online including ‘Making a COVID-19 Plan’. Both Auckland Spinal Rehabilitation Unit and Burwood Spinal Unit in New Zealand are referring people to information on the NZ Spinal Trust website. ISCoS have brought together a number of resources that are available internationally as well.

The impact of COVID-19 on our spinal community is extensive – public health services, care agencies, suppliers, small business, not for profit agencies and clients (and more).  ANZSCoS would like to recognise the great work carried out by SCI consumer organisations in both Australia and New Zealand who have promptly reached out to members ensuring people are safe, feeling connected, and helping to navigate through a very challenging time.

ANZSCoS will continue to keep abreast of what COVID-19 means to the SCI community. Ongoing activity will be at the local level where specialised spinal services will continue to liaise with their local/state health service to ensure people with SCI are provided with the best care and support. Specialist spinal services will also continue to communicate and be a support to each other, here in Australia, New Zealand and internationally.