Calls for further recognition of GPs’ contribution to AOD workforce The RACGP’s latest recommendations include higher MBS rebates for AOD consultations and extended funding for its education program.
‘The war on drugs doesn’t work’: New bill shines light on old laws Legislation before the Victorian Parliament proposes decriminalising drug use. It may not pass but advocates for evidence-based health hope it has an impact.
Opioids ease osteoarthritis pain only slightly: Research Their deadly risks need to be weighed against any benefit, according to the authors of a new Australian study.
Study finds statin intolerance overestimated and overdiagnosed Fewer than 10% of patients prescribed cholesterol-lowering drugs experience side effects, according to the world’s largest study on statin intolerance.
HANDI site ‘more complete’ with new patient resources The new resources complement existing resources within HANDI and are aimed at helping GPs provide non-drug intervention-based care.
Should Australia follow New Zealand’s lead on smoking? New plans could make it illegal for tobacco ever to be sold to anyone born after 2008. Two GPs consider whether Australia should follow suit.
Why HANDI resource is underutilised Patients and doctors could both benefit from greater adoption of non-drug interventions, writes Professor Paul Glasziou.
Has COVID-19 changed Australia’s alcohol consumption? Emerging studies are starting to reveal what impact the pandemic has had on alcohol use, writes Dr Shani Macaulay.
Approaching difficult conversations with patients about opioid use NPS MedicineWise medical advisor Dr Caroline West speaks with Dr Richard O’Regan, an addiction medicine consultant with the Royal Perth Bentley Group about opioid addiction.
Opioid treatment study ‘may impact’ future Australian guidelines Results from a clinical trial of extended-release buprenorphine injections reveal high retention and treatment satisfaction.