Industry News
Lung cancer medication gets PBS listing
The Australian Government is listing Retevmo (selpercatinib) on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, with around 130 patients expected to benefit each year. [ + ]
Ahpra appoints Justin Untersteiner Chief Executive Officer
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency has appointed Justin Untersteiner CEO, commencing April 2025. Untersteiner succeeds Martin Fletcher. [ + ]
Qld launches health service investigation into Mackay HHS
Following concerns raised by doctors, Queensland Health's Director-General has commissioned an investigation into Mackay Hospital and Health Service. [ + ]
Former nurse prosecuted for fake registration certificate
A Victorian man has been fined $5000 and ordered to pay Ahpra's legal costs of $21,420.56 after holding himself out as a registered nurse. [ + ]
Regional, rural and remote area doctors — have your say
Until 19 February, the Australian Medical Association is urging regional, rural and remote area doctors to take part in the 2025 Rural Health Issues Survey. [ + ]
Registration reform for comparable countries' nurses
From March 2025, a new, streamlined assessment and registration process for internationally qualified registered nurses from comparable countries will apply. [ + ]
David McGrath is new National Mental Health Commission CEO
David McGrath is now CEO of NMHC (commencing 29 January 2025), taking carriage of important reforms to the commission announced in the 2024–25 Budget. [ + ]
A model for predicting a 'superspreader'
A so-called friendship paradox was used as the basis for a new mathematical model that could be used to more accurately predict the development of an epidemic. [ + ]
Paracetamol pack size changes come into effect on 1 February 2025
The Therapeutic Goods Administration's decision to reduce pack sizes of paracetamol to help prevent misuse will come into effect on 1 February 2025. [ + ]
Dr Peggy Brown AO appointed Chair of Mental Health Australia
According to Mental Health Australia, Brown's diverse experience in the mental health sector makes her well placed to lead the organisation at a time when change is urgently needed. [ + ]
Development of at-home bladder cancer diagnostic kit
Researchers have developed a urine-based diagnostic kit for bladder cancer that can be used at home. [ + ]
Artificial touch boosted by brain-controlled bionic hand
New research suggests that a complex sense of touch for people with spinal cord injuries is now a step closer. [ + ]
Low cancer testing and other concerning trends in women's health
The latest Hologic Global Women's Health Index has been released, revealing some worrying trends in women's health — including a decline in cancer testing. [ + ]
MRI brain scanning sheds light on 'mind blindness'
Recent research opens a door to understanding more about aphantasia, along with a range of other conditions involving altered mental imagery. [ + ]
Reframing the diagnosis and treatment of obesity
A global Commission of medical experts is advocating for a thorough overhaul of the way obesity is currently assessed — including dispensing with BMI as a single diagnostic measure. [ + ]
