Australia records first life expectancy drop in decades Despite healthcare spending increases, chronic conditions present a key challenge for individuals, governments and society as a whole, the AIHW says.
Nearly 100 aged care facilities record COVID vax rates below 10% With more than 450 active outbreaks at last count, experts say the ‘disappointingly low’ coverage is putting the already vulnerable at risk.
July MBS changes revealed MBS indexation and the removal of COVID telehealth rebates and exemptions headline this year’s updates.
GPs forced to manage critical pain relief shortage ‘as best we can’ Patients and doctors are becoming increasingly distressed about the shortfall, which has been impacting care for more than 18 months.
COVID telehealth item numbers set to expire next month The Federal Government is planning to remove level C phone rebates for antiviral consultations and scrap the 12-month relationship exemption.
Advocate says long COVID guidelines will help address ‘medical gaslighting’ The resource is also set to incorporate treatments for ME/CFS, but there are suggestions patients would benefit more from support for longer consultations.
Another potential long COVID treatment ruled out A COVID-19 antiviral has been shown to be ineffective at treating the condition, as doctors continue to be left with few options.
Breast cancer detection delayed by COVID-19 The rate of metastatic breast cancer doubled after breast screening programs shut down during the pandemic.
What do I need to know about the new FLiRT variants? Although there’s still much to learn about SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID) at least one thing seems clear: it’s here to stay.
In Practice: AIR updates ahead of flu season The Australian Immunisation Register has made enhancements to COVID-19 and influenza vaccine information in preparation for the 2024 winter season.