Sunday, 14 June 2026
Pharmacist-led UTI care model, Statin safety reassured, Insulin pricing settlement proposal
- 01
NSW pharmacist-led UTI trial shows effective model of care
The NSW pharmacist-led UTI trial treated over 17,000 women in under a year, demonstrating a structured approach to managing uncomplicated urinary tract infections. Participants received care under a strict clinical protocol, with high rates of symptom resolution and low escalation to hospital care. The trial addressed safety and antimicrobial stewardship concerns, showing no significant safety signals or impact on antimicrobial resistance. This model of care aims to improve patient access and reduce pressure on emergency departments while allowing pharmacists to operate within their full scope.
- 02
Meta-analysis Reassures on Statin Safety Concerns
A recent meta-analysis by the Cholesterol Treatment Trialists’ (CTT) Collaboration offers reassuring evidence about the safety of statin therapy. The analysis utilised individual participant data from large double-blind trials to address common safety concerns associated with statins. This finding may influence prescribing practices among clinicians, alleviating apprehensions regarding statin-associated adverse events.
via The Lancet · also covered by The Lancet
- 03
UnitedHealth and FTC propose settlement in insulin pricing case
UnitedHealth has reached a tentative settlement with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regarding allegations that its pharmacy benefit manager, Optum Rx, inflated insulin costs. The FTC is pausing its case against Optum Rx and will consider a proposed consent agreement that could resolve the claims entirely. This development follows similar settlements involving CVS Health and Cigna’s Express Scripts earlier this year. The FTC's lawsuit targeted the three largest pharmacy benefit managers, which control about 80% of U.S. prescriptions, for allegedly engaging in uncompetitive practices.
via Healthcare Dive
- 04
WHO and Africa CDC announce $518 million Ebola response plan
The World Health Organization and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention have launched a $518 million plan to address the Bundibugyo Ebola virus outbreak. This initiative aims to establish a coordinated response to control the outbreak effectively. The announcement underscores a significant public health effort in managing infectious diseases in the region.
via The Lancet
- 05
New Guidance for Chronic Kidney Disease Management Released
An editorial in The Lancet highlights the growing recognition of chronic kidney disease (CKD) following the WHO resolution on kidney health adopted in November 2025. The piece discusses the challenges in implementing global agreements on CKD management, which often face opposition and inertia. It references a Health Policy paper that offers practical guidance for fulfilling the resolution's promises, emphasising the need for integration within the broader non-communicable disease agenda.
via The Lancet
- 06
Wakley Prize 2026 Focuses on Early Career Learning in Medicine
The Lancet announces the theme for the 2026 Wakley Prize, emphasising the learning experiences of early-career health professionals. Physician Rachel Clarke reflects on the challenges faced by new doctors, who often feel a sense of mastery after their final exams, only to confront the reality that true learning continues throughout their careers. This focus aims to highlight the ongoing educational journey in medicine, particularly for those just starting out.
via The Lancet
MDDR is a news digest for medical professionals. It is not medical advice and should not be relied on for clinical decision-making.