Expanded COVID antivirals access hindered by telehealth restrictions While more people are now eligible to receive treatment through the PBS, GPs warn that vulnerable patients risk being left behind due to a lack of MBS support for extended phone consultations.
Big fluctuations in PBS antiviral use by state The ability to issue life-saving COVID-19 oral antiviral treatments via the PBS may have so far largely depended on where prescribers work.
Concerns over vulnerable patients missing COVID-19 oral antivirals Patients in some areas are reportedly struggling to access treatments on the PBS in a timely way, even with a prescription.
Diagnosis delays lead to PCR test push Vulnerable patients with symptoms should get the more sensitive test to allow treatment to be fast-tracked, says deputy CMO.
Text reminders mooted for at-risk COVID-19 patients The Federal Health Minister has asked department officials for advice on ways of further raising awareness of oral antiviral treatments.
Multiple rapid antigen test sponsors under investigation The revelation comes alongside TGA confirmation that a company has been fined more than $100,000 for ‘serial non-compliance’.
Government launches flu and COVID vaccine campaign At-risk patients have also been encouraged to talk to GPs about oral antiviral treatments if they are infected with COVID-19.
‘Convincing’ evidence the pill can cause depression And some types are worse than others, writes psychiatrist Professor Jayashri Kulkarni.
Relapse reports ‘don’t undermine Paxlovid capability’ Rare cases of COVID-19 rebounding after patients have taken a course of the new oral antiviral treatment have been widely reported.
Paxlovid update In this special COVID-19 episode, The Good GP interviews Professor Michael Kidd AM, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, on Paxlovid in light of its imminent listing on the PBS. This episode explores who’ll benefit from antivirals, the efficacy of Paxlovid, availability and the contraindications and interactions.