AHPRA not keeping pace as notifications surge Despite a focus on reducing older notifications, the pile is growing larger – a situation the regulator acknowledges needs ‘sustained and targeted attention’.
Male infertility guidelines launched Evidence-based recommendations aimed at Australian doctors have been published, addressing a need for a ‘unifying set’ of guidance.
‘Commonsense delay’ to assignment of benefit changes The changes, affecting all bulk-billed services, will now begin on 1 July 2026 – a six-month delay designed to give GPs and patients more time to prepare.
DVA to fund psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy Strict eligibility criteria will apply to veterans seeking treatment for PTSD and treatment-resistant depression.
Could discharge summaries be set to improve? A new framework aims to minimise medication errors when patients leave hospital, as well as urging ‘proactive communication’ with GPs.
How many practices have switched to the new bulk-billing program? After months of promotion, the Government’s landmark changes have so far convinced just 13% of metropolitan practices to change to fully bulk billing.
‘Hugely detrimental’: Mental health item changes raise concern Doctors are worried about how the scrapping of co-billed items and 12-month exemption rules will impact on patient care and clinic sustainability.
‘We’re going to intervene in the market’: Health Minister Mark Butler has confirmed the Federal Government will step in if too few general practices sign up to incoming bulk-billing reforms.
‘Positive reform’: $25,000 budget for end-of-life care starts New in-home care funding begins on 1 November and while GPs welcome the reform, they warn assessments could be challenging.
Call for NT to bring in needle-free flu vaccine The RACGP is urging Northern Territory health officials to take up the FluMist vaccine and increase protection among young children.