Tuesday, 7 July 2026
Pharmacist prescribing evidence questioned, New split billing regulations proposed, AMA presidential candidates announced
- 01
Sax Institute report questions evidence for pharmacist prescribing
A new report from the Sax Institute reveals significant uncertainties regarding the evidence supporting pharmacist-led prescribing in Australia. While the report indicates that such prescribing improves medication access, it highlights that the clinical effectiveness and safety evidence is weak. The report, commissioned by the RACGP, assessed both international studies and Australian documents, finding limited robust data to support the ongoing rollout of pharmacist prescribing for various conditions. Concerns have been raised by medical associations about the expansion of these services occurring without sufficient evidence, prompting calls for more rigorous trials before further implementation.
- 02
Proposed Regulations on Split Billing and Financial Consent
The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing is considering new regulations on split billing and informed financial consent, as outlined in a recent consultation paper. The focus is on addressing the practice of breaking fees into multiple components, which may contravene the Health Insurance Act 1973. The proposed reforms could expand the Professional Services Review's authority to scrutinise practitioners for failing to obtain informed financial consent. This comes amid concerns that many patients experience 'bill shock' due to unexpected charges, with research indicating a significant number of patients lack clarity on specialist fees.
- 03
AMA Leadership Elections: Karmakar and Bonning Announce Candidacy
Dr Anchita Karmakar and Dr Michael Bonning have announced their candidacies for the presidency of the federal AMA. Karmakar, a GP and medicolegal advocate, has a background in law and has been vocal about regulatory issues affecting the profession. Bonning, a former AMA NSW president, emphasises the importance of professional independence for doctors. Nominations for the AMA presidency opened on 19 June and will close on 17 July, with the election taking place at the AMA26 national conference in Melbourne on 29 August.
- 04
Emerging US biotech hubs challenge traditional dominance
While Greater Boston's biotech industry faces layoffs and vacant lab spaces, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, is experiencing a significant life sciences expansion, driven by an $800 million investment from GlaxoSmithKline. Other regions, including Oklahoma City and Las Vegas, are also emerging as biotech hotspots, with Oklahoma focusing on workforce development through public-private partnerships and Las Vegas establishing a life science incubator. These developments suggest a shift in the biotech landscape, potentially impacting drug development and access in Australia.
via BioPharma Dive
- 05
Medicare Costs Finder Delayed Update Raises Concerns
The Medical Costs Finder website has not updated its cost data for the 2024-25 financial year, continuing to display outdated information from the previous year. Despite attempts to refresh the site, users found no new data available. The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing confirmed that an upgrade to the site is scheduled for late 2026 or early 2027, aimed at improving transparency regarding specialist fees. This delay raises further concerns about the site's effectiveness in providing current healthcare cost information.
- 06
Understanding Addiction: A Hidden Issue in Australia
Addiction often remains concealed in various aspects of life, affecting individuals across all demographics in Australia. Approximately one in three Australians aged 50 to 60 engage in risky drinking, while many older adults may misuse prescribed medications. The article emphasises that addiction exists on a spectrum, with substance use disorder encompassing a range of issues from mild to severe. Stigma surrounding addiction can delay treatment, with individuals often waiting years before seeking help. Recognising addiction as a complex health condition is crucial for improving access to care and support.
MDDR is a news digest for medical professionals. It is not medical advice and should not be relied on for clinical decision-making.