Cost a major factor for missed genetic testing during pregnancy With no Medicare rebate, financial barriers are preventing many pregnant people from accessing non-invasive screening for common genetic conditions.
Warning issued on point-of-care testing compliance Despite thousands of MBS claims, the DoHAC understands no clinics are approved for the HbA1c test, sparking calls for practices to get accredited.
Is general practice ready for the genetic carrier screening surge? GPs must be educated and resourced to meet the ‘inevitable widespread uptake’ of the newly Medicare-funded service, says a new study.
Drug checking trial launches at injecting centre The RACGP welcomed the groundbreaking pilot, which enables users to test their substances while under medical supervision.
Australian state first to offer permanent pill testing Queensland will invest $1 million over two years to establish free, confidential and ongoing illicit drug testing services.
Deaths and overdoses prompt coroner pill testing call Two Victorian coroners have said the service could provide ‘lifesaving insights’ and tailored information to illicit drug users.
‘Breakthrough’ test for early dementia diagnosis a step closer Use of the blood test is expanding and local experts are excited about the impact it could have in Australia – should it become available.
Ban use of genetic testing for life insurance: RACGP While the college notes its potential to improve health outcomes, it suggests people could avoid testing if they risk cover being denied.
Pill testing could have prevented 64 festival deaths: Research The analysis was released at the same time as a separate study showing how testing recently detected three new drugs never seen before in Australia.
Pill testing calls follow multiple overdoses at Melbourne festival The Chair of RACGP Specific Interests Addiction Medicine has said such a move would be ‘a no-brainer’.