Is the number of GP consultations going down? The use of MBS item 23 has fallen significantly since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, but telehealth is likely to have had an impact.
Medical students’ interest in general practice dips The proportion of final year students who signalled a preference for a career in general practice declined last year, according to a new report.
Free meningococcal B vaccine program expanded in Queensland The State Government will follow the lead of South Australia in offering free vaccination to infants and adolescents from next year.
‘Strong case’ for more preventive funding in Australia: Study Analysis of life expectancy and disease burden in The Lancet also suggests Australia compares poorly to similar OECD countries for mental health.
Senators pushed to hold firm on 60-day dispensing The policy is due to begin within weeks, but stalling tactics in the Australian Senate remain a possibility.
NSW pharmacy prescribing trial expands More than 1000 pharmacies are now able to assess UTI treatments, with details of the clinical trial linked to the project yet to be published.
Gas phase-out lauded as ‘the right choice for health’ The Victorian Government has said gas connections will be banned in new homes from next year, with GPs endorsing the move.
TGA flags focus on illegal vapes Unlawful nicotine vaping products and medicinal cannabis advertising are priority areas for the medicine regulator for the next year.
Scrap preference for video telehealth consultations: RACGP The college has said the current MBS principle lacks evidence and could compromise access to care.
‘A powerful tool’: Practices urged to take part in patient study The survey is designed to help practices understand and compare the management of patients with chronic conditions, both at home and abroad.