Thursday, 9 July 2026
PBS adrenaline prescription changes, Leadership needed for health reform, Interim GP clinic reopening in Clermont
- 01
PBS Adrenaline Prescription Changes Impact Rural Patients
The Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee has revoked special dispensation allowing GPs to initiate PBS-eligible adrenaline prescriptions for anaphylaxis, a decision that GPs warn will increase mortality rates, particularly in rural areas. GPs classified as 'non-specialist prescribers' can no longer prescribe PBS-subsidised adrenaline, including the new nasal spray, Neffy. Patients must now consult a specialist or be discharged from hospital to access PBS-funded adrenaline, while private prescriptions will cost significantly more. Experts argue this change exacerbates inequities in healthcare access and could lead to preventable harm.
- 02
Australia's Health Reform Depends on Leadership Capability
Australia's health system faces significant reforms aimed at strengthening Medicare, addressing workforce shortages, and improving care governance. However, the success of these reforms hinges on the leadership capabilities of those implementing them, as highlighted by recent inquiries and reviews. The article argues for a national approach to developing healthcare leadership, emphasising the need for clear competency standards and practical training. It suggests that effective leadership is essential for translating health strategies into improved patient outcomes and organisational performance.
- 03
Interim GP clinic to reopen in Clermont, Queensland
The Royal Flying Doctor Service will implement an interim GP access arrangement in Clermont, Queensland, following the closure of the town's only clinic in December 2025. Residents can expect local GP services to resume in six to eight weeks, with consultations available both face-to-face and via telehealth. The initiative, funded by the Department of Health, Disability, and Ageing, aims to alleviate pressure on the community and ensure access to Medicare-eligible services at no out-of-pocket cost. Local leaders emphasise the importance of sustainable healthcare solutions in rural areas, highlighting the need for ongoing access to primary care.
- 04
PSR implements new oversight measures for prescribing practices
The Professional Services Review (PSR) has announced new oversight measures aimed at enhancing affordability, transparency, and access to medical specialist care. A spokesperson described these measures as a 'roving eye' that will monitor prescribing practices, particularly focusing on bulk billing and PBS prescriptions. This initiative could significantly impact compliance among GPs as the PSR intensifies its scrutiny of prescribing behaviours. The announcement comes amid broader reforms in the healthcare system.
- 05
AstraZeneca and GSK Expand Collaborations with Sino Biopharm
AstraZeneca and GSK have entered new agreements with China-based Sino Biopharm, enhancing their presence in the Chinese pharmaceutical market. AstraZeneca will license rights to a lung disease drug, TQC3721, for an upfront payment of $200 million, with potential additional payments of up to $1.9 billion. GSK's collaboration involves Sino gaining ownership of its respiratory medicines Trelegy and Anoro in China, aimed at increasing market penetration. These developments occur amid growing scrutiny of international pharmaceutical partnerships and could influence drug availability in Australia.
via BioPharma Dive
- 06
Resmed sells MatrixCare for $490 million to Frazier Healthcare
Resmed has agreed to sell its MatrixCare software business for $490 million to private equity firm Frazier Healthcare Partners. This divestment aims to sharpen Resmed's focus on sleep and breathing health devices and enhance its digital health ecosystem. MatrixCare, which serves over 15,000 healthcare providers, has underperformed in revenue growth compared to Resmed's other units. The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of Resmed’s fiscal 2027, allowing the company to reallocate resources towards higher-growth opportunities.
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.