Tuesday, 30 June 2026
Pharmacy roles could reduce admissions, New bulk billing policy details, Cohealth apologises for service issues
- 01
Pharmacy Guild claims expanded roles could cut hospital admissions
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia claims that expanding pharmacists' scope of practice could prevent around 30,000 hospital admissions annually, potentially alleviating pressure on emergency departments. However, the Australian Medical Association (AMA) disputes this assertion, stating it misinterprets data regarding ambulance ramping and hospital presentations. AMA president Dr Danielle McMullen emphasised the need for increased investment in general practice and preventive medicine to manage chronic diseases and reduce hospital demand. The debate highlights differing views on the role of pharmacists in the healthcare system and the importance of multidisciplinary care.
- 02
New Bulk Billing Policy for Vulnerable Patients Begins July 1
Starting July 1, patients registered with MyMedicare, those in residential aged care, and patients of Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations can consent to ongoing bulk billing through an enduring assignment of benefit agreement. This policy change allows eligible patients to be bulk billed for future appointments, streamlining billing practices for GPs. The regulations, signed by Governor-General Sam Mostyn, require specific documentation for the agreements, including patient consent and service descriptions. GPs must notify patients within 24 hours after making a Medicare claim under these agreements.
- 03
Cohealth Apologises for GP Service Closures and Mismanagement
Cohealth has issued an apology to clients and staff regarding its handling of the closure of GP services at its Collingwood, Fitzroy, and Kensington clinics. The organisation acknowledged failures in communication and support during the transition, admitting that it did not provide adequate time or information for clients to understand the changes. Cohealth aims to rebuild trust through transparency and collaboration with the community, while also working with state and federal governments on service redesign and governance improvements. Despite calls for board changes following a review, the current board remains in place as the organisation seeks to implement recommendations.
- 04
HHS outlines strategy to accelerate AI adoption in healthcare
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced plans to expedite the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in clinical care to enhance health outcomes and reduce costs. During a recent webinar, HHS leaders discussed feedback from a request for information aimed at understanding industry needs for AI implementation and governance. Key takeaways include the necessity for coordination across HHS agencies and the development of evaluation tools for AI products. The HHS also highlighted ongoing initiatives, such as a competition for AI tools to assist caregivers and projects focused on managing cardiovascular disease care.
via MedTech Dive
- 05
Edwards Lifesciences secures FDA clearance for LAA clip device
Edwards Lifesciences has received FDA clearance for its Ecliptis left atrial appendage exclusion system, designed to prevent blood clots that can lead to stroke. This device aims to compete with existing products from AtriCure and Medtronic in the growing LAA clip market. The Ecliptis device offers a procedural alternative for patients with atrial fibrillation who cannot tolerate blood thinners. Edwards plans a targeted rollout, leveraging its existing surgical valve infrastructure.
via MedTech Dive
- 06
J&J initiates pivotal trials for Shockwave IVL device in carotid arteries
Johnson & Johnson has commenced pivotal trials for its investigational device, SkyRunner, designed to treat calcified carotid arteries using Shockwave's intravascular lithotripsy technology. The trials aim to evaluate the device's effectiveness in preparing arteries for stenting in patients at high risk for complications from carotid endarterectomy. Each trial will enroll up to 160 patients and assess outcomes including death, stroke, and myocardial infarction. The studies are expected to provide new treatment options for patients with limited alternatives due to the complexities and risks associated with current surgical methods.
via MedTech Dive
MDDR is a news digest for medical professionals. It is not medical advice and should not be relied on for clinical decision-making.