Age drop for bowel cancer screening endorsed The NHMRC has approved guidelines to widen the age of bowel cancer screening, although the Federal Government is yet to sign off the change.
New statutory agency to investigate systemic issues in aged care The new authority, recommended by the royal commission, will identify issues and report to the Australian Parliament.
Hopes for ‘sustained improvement’ in appropriate prescribing A report shows a significant rise in the number of antimicrobial prescriptions in 2022 – but the rate remains below pre-pandemic levels.
Nurse-led clinics ‘another slap in the face’ The RACGP has strongly criticised the establishment of five new urgent care clinics in the ACT, saying they contradict Federal guidance.
Methotrexate effective against osteoarthritis: Study Long-awaited relief could be on the way for patients, after researchers found a weekly oral dose of the drug lessened pain and stiffness.
Common medications might affect older people’s driving: Study Some simple analgesics and psychoactive medications may negatively impact the driving ability of people over 65, according to new research.
Proof whooping cough vaccination during pregnancy saves lives New research has revealed babies born to mothers vaccinated against pertussis are 70% less likely to suffer the potentially fatal infection.
New tool to improve primary care research reporting The guidelines aim to address the unique perspectives and approaches of primary care and improve translation to ‘real-world’ practice.
Government rolls out free shingles vaccine Five million older and vulnerable Australians will have access to the new, and more effective, Shingrix vaccine from next month.
In Practice: DoH seeks feedback on how it provides information Healthcare professionals have been asked to complete a 10-minute survey exploring how they would like to receive departmental updates.