ATAGI approves fourth dose for severely immunocompromised Described as a booster – rather than part of the primary vaccination course – people are eligible four months after their third dose.
DoH heeds RACGP advice and defers new 30/20 phone consultation rule The prescribed pattern of services rule will be deferred until the middle of 2022 to help GPs deal with the COVID pandemic.
‘Stalwart of general practice research’ receives award Colleagues and former students praise ‘well deserved’ recognition for Professor Chris del Mar.
Details of permanent telehealth arrangements published The fact sheets for ongoing MBS telehealth have now been released, with the changes to come into effect from the beginning of 2022.
Omicron a ‘significant challenge’ to two-dose vaccination Research suggests the new variant of concern is easily the most adept yet at avoiding antibodies and that ‘significant community spread’ is expected, including among the fully vaccinated.
Further extension to image-based prescribing The temporary measure was due to end this year but has been left open to prescribers as ‘an emergency option’ for another three months.
‘A wonderful day’: telehealth to become permanent Minister for Health and Aged Care highlights RACGP’s role ‘as principal partner’ in introduction of ‘transformational’ telehealth service on an ongoing basis.
Can Australia avoid Europe’s COVID-19 surge next winter? With COVID now present in many parts of the country, newsGP looks at how well placed Australia is to avoid a similar increase in cases next year.
Decision aid launched for those with COVID-19 vaccine concerns Prominent public health experts have collaborated to develop an online tool backed by the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance.
First Omicron studies hint at enhanced role for boosters The first laboratory studies have emerged on Omicron and its impact on vaccination, suggesting ‘extensive but incomplete’ loss of protection – but the picture for severe disease remains unclear.