Friday, 31 July 2026
Telehealth rules amid fuel shortages, Depemokimab approved for asthma, New blood test for dementia detection
- 01
Telehealth rules may change amid Australia’s fuel shortage
Peak medical organisations, including the AMA and RACGP, have urged the government to adjust Medicare’s telehealth service limits in response to potential fuel shortages. They recommend maintaining the current limit of 30 daily telephone consultations but increasing the threshold from 20 to 50 days if Australia reaches Level 3 of the National Fuel Security plan. This change aims to ensure continuity of care, particularly for patients in rural and remote areas who may face difficulties travelling for in-person consultations. The call comes as the federal government invests in a new oil refinery to address fuel supply issues.
- 02
TGA approves depemokimab for severe eosinophilic asthma
The Therapeutic Goods Administration has approved depemokimab for severe eosinophilic asthma, providing a new treatment option for eligible Australians. This biologic, requiring only two doses per year, is indicated for patients aged 12 and older whose asthma remains uncontrolled despite existing therapies. It also covers adults with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps inadequately managed by other treatments. The approval adds to Australia's range of biologic therapies targeting eosinophilic inflammation, which is significant given the high burden of severe asthma in the population.
- 03
New blood test for early dementia detection approved
The Therapeutic Goods Administration has approved a blood test that detects dementia-related changes in the brain decades before symptoms appear. This test identifies the phosphorylated tau 217 protein, a biomarker linked to amyloid plaque build-up, and reportedly provides results in as little as 18 minutes. Health Minister Mark Butler described the test as a potential 'holy grail' for dementia diagnosis, with over 90% accuracy comparable to more invasive methods. Doctors may be able to refer patients for the test in clinical trials within the next six to nine months.
- 04
Australia risks $2.6 billion cost if hepatitis elimination targets fail
Hepatitis Australia warns that Australia is on track to miss over half of its hepatitis elimination targets by 2030, potentially incurring costs of $2.6 billion. A report commissioned by Hepatitis Australia indicates that failing to eliminate hepatitis B and C could lead to significant immediate and downstream healthcare costs. While Australia is expected to achieve some vaccination and incidence reduction targets, it is unlikely to meet goals related to stigma reduction, treatment access, and mortality rates. Hepatitis Australia emphasises the need for continued investment and action to avoid increased healthcare pressures and preventable deaths.
- 05
SURMOUNT-MAINTAIN study examines tirzepatide dose reduction effects
The SURMOUNT-MAINTAIN study investigated the effects of reducing or eliminating tirzepatide doses on long-term weight loss maintenance. A/Prof Samantha Hocking presented the findings, which are relevant for managing obesity treatment strategies. This research provides insights that could influence clinical approaches to weight management. The study's implications are significant for healthcare professionals involved in obesity care.
- 06
Senate committee criticises MyMedicare for hindering primary care access
The MyMedicare program has been labelled an 'enormous hurdle' for rural Australians, particularly Indigenous populations, during a Senate committee hearing. Dr Sophia Couzos from the Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council argued that the program diverts resources from essential healthcare and complicates access to services. She highlighted issues with chronic disease plans being rejected due to registration problems, which further complicates care for mobile populations. The committee's discussions underscored concerns that recent Medicare reforms have increased complexity rather than improving access to primary healthcare.
MDDR is a news digest for medical professionals. It is not medical advice and should not be relied on for clinical decision-making.