Don't delay getting the healthcare you need, for an existing condition or new symptoms. Talk to your health provider if you have any concerns about how to access your care safely.

We know this year has been tough. The good news is lives have already been saved with COVID-19 restrictions and this can continue by following the latest health advice to slow the spread of the virus, and by continuing to look after our own health.

OTHER NEWS:

While we are focused on COVID-19, no one can afford to put off other areas of their own healthcare. Health issues do not stop when there is a pandemic - we want to avoid unnecessary illness, complications and hospitalisation for chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, asthma, mental health conditions and cancer. And the only way to do this is if patients keep up their regular healthcare appointments.

While we continue to take the necessary precautions to protect our wider community against COVID-19, it's important to also look after the other aspects of our mental and physical health. We want to reassure Victorians that your healthcare services remain open and ready to support you.

OTHER NEWS:

Many people may have already missed out on a healthcare appointment, either for new symptoms or a check-up for an existing issue. Please do not delay any further. Even before COVID-19 restrictions, we were concerned about the low numbers of people getting cancer screening tests. We are already working to improve early detection and monitoring of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease and asthma and to reduce the number of undiagnosed cases. We don't want COVID-19 to make these problems worse.

The same goes for mental health. Anyone experiencing mental health symptoms should seek help, whether you are managing an existing condition, or the symptoms are new.

Read more: Bendigo Bank braces for new, unpredictable COVID-19 pain

As we have been in lockdown before healthcare services have adapted to make it easier for you to access the care you need.

Accessing care from your general practice team, and other health professionals is easier than ever, with video chat and telephone consultations available - as well as safe in-person consultations for those who need them. Pharmacies are still open in locked down areas, and home delivery of medication can also be arranged.

Remember, health services are open to see you face to face and it remains safe to visit in person when you need to.

So, if you or someone you care for is putting off a visit to your GP, nurse, an allied health professional or a pathology test - it's time to get the care you need. Don't delay, it could save your life.

We understand you may be feeling worried and have questions about how you can access healthcare safely; we encourage you to talk to your healthcare providers and ask those questions.