Has the pandemic changed the way people utilise health services? The AIHW has released a series of reports outlining how COVID-19 changed the way Australians used health services in 2019–20.
PBS update provides new options for people with CVD and leukaemia The latest changes have been hailed as ‘exciting’ and an ‘important milestone’ by specialists.
An antidepressant is now one of Australia’s most commonly prescribed drugs – but why? Nuance is necessary to interpret why prescriptions of sertraline have gone up, according to an expert.
Stigma limiting hepatitis C treatment Uptake has slowed despite Australians having access to highly effective treatment.
PBS to provide access to life-saving MS and cancer medicines New medicines for multiple sclerosis and various cancers will be available on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme from 1 November.
Oral furosemide a welcome addition to Prescriber Bag The diuretic has been added to the list of emergency medications following RACGP advocacy, in what GPs say is an important precedent.
Changes made to recent opioid reforms Annual secondary review requirements have been relaxed, easing access concerns for palliative care patients.
Children overprescribed combination asthma medication: Study The medication should not be the first line of treatment in children – and for those aged five or under it should not be prescribed at all.
Greater access to ‘life changing’ asthma drugs on PBS Patients with mild and severe forms of asthma now have wider access to effective treatment, helping to curb anxiety amid the pandemic.
Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme updates to start 2020 The safety net threshold has been lowered, while a new drug that provides a treatment option for patients with advanced breast cancer has been added.