More than 1000 pharmacies registered for prescribing trial The clinical trial was originally due to begin in April but issues with ethics approval reportedly resulted in it being delayed.
FP 50 restriction sparks prescribing authority debate GPs have questioned why some medications can only be prescribed by certain specialties, calling differential access to the PBS ‘utterly illogical’.
Meta-analysis shows social interaction reduces dementia risk Strong social connections were associated with a lower risk of mild cognitive impairment, dementia and death.
Proportion of Level B attendances drops: AIHW While still the most common type of consultation, its use has plateaued despite overall GP attendances having increased.
‘Guide the future of the profession’: Health of the Nation returns General practice workforce will be a major focus of this year’s survey, which helps to inform and support RACGP advocacy efforts.
In Practice: Prescription Shopping Information Service changes From May, GPs will no longer be able to receive a copy of a Patient Summary Report via fax, Services Australia has advised.
Extended dispensing a ‘win for patients’ Hundreds of medications will become eligible for 60-day supply from September in a move likely to save the healthcare system billions.
Obstructive sleep apnoea may cause early cognitive decline: Research A small study suggests the symptoms may occur even in the absence of co-morbidities, but a GP sleep expert says more evidence is needed.
Pressure builds on governments to ‘raise the age’ More than 120 medical, legal and social service organisations have written to the attorneys-general about the age of criminal responsibility.
Flu vaccination drive ‘comes at a key time’ The RACGP has said it is working closely with the WA Government to ensure next month’s expanded rollout of influenza vaccines runs smoothly.