Thursday, 11 June 2026
FluMist safety update, AMA opposes audiometrist MBS changes, RACGP critiques NDIS reforms
- 01
TGA updates FluMist guidelines following adverse events in children
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) issued a safety update regarding FluMist, the intranasal influenza vaccine, after over 80 children received it inappropriately in May. The vaccine is only indicated for children and adolescents aged two to 17 years. Reports indicated that 116 of the 161 adverse event notifications involved children under two, with many cases resulting from incorrect administration. The TGA advises healthcare professionals to verify the age of patients before administering FluMist and to consult the product information on the TGA website.
- 02
AMA opposes audiometrist MBS expansion, citing patient care concerns
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has expressed support for a draft recommendation from the MBS Review Advisory Committee (MRAC) to deny audiometrists access to certain Medicare-funded diagnostic audiology services. The AMA argues that expanding access could fragment patient care and lacks sufficient evidence. Currently, these services are available only to audiologists, and the AMA highlights significant differences in training and qualifications between audiologists and audiometrists. The AMA also called for improved telehealth access for audiologists and better education for GPs regarding existing hearing services.
- 03
RACGP Calls for Scrutiny of NDIS Reforms Amid Family Concerns
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has expressed concerns regarding proposed reforms to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), warning that vulnerable families may lose support before alternative services are ready. During a Senate inquiry, Dr Tim Jones highlighted that families are already being removed from the NDIS, which has been their only source of support. The RACGP advocates for a longer consultation process and a stronger role for GPs in the NDIS, emphasising the need for human connection in decision-making processes. The college also raised issues about the reliance on automated assessments and the importance of incorporating GP insights into NDIS eligibility and planning.
- 04
National Lung Cancer Screening Program Sees 90,000 Patients in First 10 Months
The National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP) in Australia has successfully enrolled over 90,000 patients for low-dose CT scans since its launch on 1 July 2025. GPs play a crucial role in identifying eligible patients, who must be aged 50–70 years, asymptomatic, and have a significant smoking history. The program aims to enhance early lung cancer detection and improve patient outcomes. GPs are encouraged to use specific forms for patient enrolment and follow-up to ensure effective communication and care continuity.
- 05
Kalbarri Medical Centre closure highlights general practice funding crisis
Kalbarri Medical Centre has announced its closure, attributed to funding cuts to Medicare and rising operational costs that small medical practices can no longer absorb. The owners, Tara and her husband, have struggled for three years under increasing financial pressure, ultimately concluding that continuing operations would lead to financial loss and compromised patient care. The closure reflects broader issues in general practice economics, where funding for chronic disease management and mental health services has diminished, while the costs of staffing and compliance have escalated. This situation underscores the urgent need for structural changes to sustain primary care in rural communities.
- 06
RSV Vaccine for Older Adults Added to NIP
The National Immunisation Program (NIP) has included a recombinant, adjuvanted RSV vaccine for older adults. Associate Professor Michael Woodward AM, a geriatrician, has outlined the eligibility criteria and provided practical guidance on this vaccination. This development expands preventive care options for older adults, a vulnerable population. The inclusion of the RSV vaccine in the NIP is significant for primary care providers.
MDDR is a news digest for medical professionals. It is not medical advice and should not be relied on for clinical decision-making.