News
In Practice: Stay up to date with pharmacy prescribing reform
An upcoming event will keep members updated on scope of practice changes, guidance to support them, and RACGP advocacy priorities.
As discussions continue on current pharmacy scope of practice reform, the RACGP is hosting a member webinar.
This week’s In Practice also includes reminders on the latest updates for veterans’ healthcare, new guidance on drug treatments for critically ill flu patients, and an upcoming meetup for members in New South Wales.
Navigating pharmacy scope of practice reform
Webinar: Monday 27 July, 7.30 pm (AEST)
Register online
Pharmacy scope of practice reform remains a significant policy issue with implications for general practice, patient care and the broader health system. This webinar will provide an update on current pharmacy scope of practice reforms, outline the RACGP’s position and advocacy activities, and offer practical guidance to support members in responding to questions and participating in discussions about the reforms.
Attendees will have the opportunity to:
- hear the latest developments in pharmacy scope of practice reform and the potential implications for general practice and patient care
- understand the RACGP’s position and advocacy priorities
- explore the implications of the reforms for general practice and patient care
- ask questions about pharmacy reform issues affecting general practice
- access key messages, resources and member support materials.
Department of Veterans’ Affairs key updates
GPs and psychiatrists treating veterans
GPs and psychiatrists now have access to new Veteran Mental Health Incentives. These incentives will provide additional funding for mental health care specifically for veterans, supporting GPs and psychiatrists to deliver more proactive, ongoing and connected care for veterans experiencing mental health conditions.
Veterans’ Legislation Reform
The DVA says it has simplified and harmonised the legislation that governs compensation and rehabilitation, creating an easier-to-use system to enable veterans and families of veterans to more easily get the support they are entitled to.
Guidance to support compensation claims
For compensation claims, DVA prefers information and assessments from the treating doctor where possible, to support timely and well-informed decisions. This guidance helps GPs understand what a treating doctor is and how this applies to DVA compensation claims.
Medicinal cannabis grandfathering arrangements
A reminder to review medicinal cannabis treatment plans for DVA patients under current grandfathering arrangements. Grandfathered clients have until 31 August to work with their medicinal cannabis prescribers to safely adjust their prescriptions. From 1 September, all eligible DVA patients will be subject to the requirements of the new framework.
Drug treatment guidelines
The Australian Living Evidence Collaboration (ALEC) recently announced it is establishing a guideline for drug treatments for people with influenza who are critically ill. Following a rigorous process, the guideline has now been endorsed by the ALEC Steering Committee and published as interim advice.
The guidelines include recommendations addressing antivirals (oseltamivir, baloxavir, peramivir, zanamivir), corticosteroids and macrolides for treatment of influenza in both adults and children who are critically ill. The guideline will now undergo 30 days of public consultation and then be submitted to NHMRC for approval.
RACGP NSW&ACT member meet and greet
All members are invited to a meet and greet evening with the RACGP Board and members of the NSW&ACT faculty. This is an opportunity to meet Board members, ask questions and provide feedback while networking with peers over light refreshments.
Date: Wednesday 12 August, 6.30 – 8.30 pm
Venue: RACGP North Sydney office, Gadigal Country
Cost: Complimentary for members, registration is essential
Register online
Perioperative medicine communique
The latest ANZCA Perioperative Medicine Communique includes the announcement of the signing of the London Declaration, the opening of registration for the Perioperative Medicine Special Interest Group meeting in Hobart, the latest webinar on data and disruption in perioperative medicine, and updates from the Chapter of Perioperative medicine board and committees.
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