Tuesday, 23 June 2026
New asthma care resources launched, Psilocybin trial for concussion symptoms, AHPRA adopts antisemitism definition
- 01
National Asthma Council Releases New Asthma Care Resources
The National Asthma Council has introduced two new resources to assist health professionals in implementing updated asthma guidelines and enhancing inhaler technique. The updated Quick Reference Guide condenses key recommendations from the Australian Asthma Handbook into a practical format for primary care, emphasising a shift away from SABA-only treatment towards inhaled corticosteroids. Additionally, an information paper on inhaler technique addresses common issues with inhaler use among patients with asthma and COPD. These resources aim to support evidence-based care and improve patient outcomes in asthma management.
- 02
Monash University trials psilocybin for persistent concussion symptoms
Monash University researchers have initiated Australia's first randomised clinical trial to investigate the efficacy of psilocybin in treating persistent post-concussion symptoms (PPCS). The trial aims to assess whether psilocybin-assisted therapy can alleviate debilitating symptoms affecting cognitive and emotional health in individuals with PPCS, which impacts up to 50% of those who suffer concussions. Researchers will compare a 25mg therapeutic dose of psilocybin with a 4mg active placebo, measuring effectiveness through the Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire at week 10. The study, supported by a $1.5 million grant, seeks to address a significant unmet need in concussion management.
- 03
AHPRA adopts IHRA antisemitism definition, raising free speech concerns
AHPRA has adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism, prompting fears among clinicians that criticism of Israel may lead to regulatory scrutiny. The decision follows a rise in notifications regarding alleged inappropriate social media posts related to the Gaza conflict, with 63 notifications received between October 2023 and February 2024. Clinicians express concerns about potential overreach and the lack of clear guidance on how the definition will be applied. AHPRA's chief executive stated the organisation is committed to eliminating antisemitism in healthcare while reviewing its notifications framework to prevent misuse.
- 04
Repeat bowel screening rates reach record levels in Australia
New data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) shows that 83.5% of participants returned for repeat bowel cancer screening in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP), marking a significant increase in engagement. Between January 2023 and December 2024, approximately 6.4 million Australians aged 50–74 were invited to participate, with a participation rate of 42%. The report highlights that regular screening leads to earlier detection and improved outcomes, with 73,724 participants receiving positive results and 85% undergoing follow-up assessments. The NBCSP has detected over 17,000 bowel cancers since its inception in 2006, contributing to a notable decline in mortality rates among Australians in the target age group.
- 05
First H5N1 bird flu cases in Australia prompt vaccination calls
Australia has reported its first two cases of the H5N1 bird flu virus, detected in wild migratory birds at Cape Le Grand National Park. Infectious disease experts are urging increased flu vaccination rates to reduce the risk of co-infection, which could lead to more transmissible strains. Current vaccination coverage has dropped significantly, particularly among younger populations. The federal government has invested over $113 million to enhance bird flu preparedness and surveillance efforts.
- 06
SafeScript linked to reduced doctor-shopping for opioids and benzodiazepines
Research indicates that Victoria's SafeScript program has significantly decreased the incidence of patients obtaining high-risk medications from multiple prescribers. The study analysed over 6.7 million prescriptions and found a 15% drop in patients seeing four or more prescribers during the program's voluntary phase, with sustained reductions after it became mandatory. The findings suggest that prescription drug monitoring can enhance patient safety by reducing the risks associated with dependence and overdose. The research highlights the importance of real-time alerts in supporting continuity of care for patients prescribed high-risk medicines.
MDDR is a news digest for medical professionals. It is not medical advice and should not be relied on for clinical decision-making.