Sunday, 2 August 2026
Gender pay gap for female GPs, FDA panel backs melanoma treatment, Novo Nordisk heart drug trial fails
- 01
Gender pay gap among GPs persists, worsened by recent Medicare changes
Women GPs in Australia continue to face a significant gender pay gap, with average incomes reported at $171,087 for female GPs compared to $226,927 for male GPs, reflecting a 26% disparity. Recent Medicare changes have exacerbated this issue, increasing the gender pay gap from 1% to 8% based on rebates alone. The gap persists despite women GPs often engaging in longer, more complex consultations that are undervalued in the Medicare Schedule. The ongoing financial disadvantage contributes to the attrition of female doctors, highlighting systemic issues within the healthcare system.
- 02
FDA panel supports Replimune's melanoma drug RP1
An FDA advisory panel voted 10-3 in favour of Replimune's experimental melanoma treatment, RP1, on July 30, 2026, despite concerns from FDA scientists regarding its efficacy and survival analysis. The panel concluded that the efficacy results from the key study were clinically meaningful, increasing the likelihood of FDA approval by August 2. RP1 aims to assist patients whose melanoma has progressed after standard immunotherapy treatments, with a combination therapy approach being considered. The ongoing confirmatory trial, expected to yield results in late 2027, may provide further evidence of RP1's benefits.
via BioPharma Dive
- 03
Novo Nordisk's heart drug trial fails to meet key goals
Novo Nordisk's ziltivekimab failed to significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, or cardiovascular death in a Phase 3 trial involving over 6,000 participants with chronic kidney disease or atherosclerotic coronary artery disease. Despite lowering levels of the inflammatory protein IL-6, the drug did not provide the expected heart health benefits, raising concerns about similar therapies targeting inflammation. The trial results led to a 10% drop in Novo's shares and negatively impacted other biotech companies developing cardiovascular drugs. Analysts noted that the findings challenge the role of hsCRP in heart protection.
via BioPharma Dive
- 04
FDA approves expansion of robotic microsurgery trial for Alzheimer's
The FDA has approved MMI to expand its feasibility trial of the Symani robotic system for microsurgery in Alzheimer’s patients. The REMIND study aims to evaluate the safety and feasibility of restoring drainage pathways in the deep cervical lymph nodes, potentially aiding in the clearance of neurotoxins associated with Alzheimer’s progression. The trial will increase enrollment from five to 15 patients, all of whom have mild to moderate Alzheimer’s and confirmed lymphatic abnormalities. This innovative approach could lead to new treatment options in neurology.
via MedTech Dive
- 05
Strategies to Identify Missed Hepatitis B and C Patients
The article discusses strategies for identifying patients with missed diagnoses of hepatitis B and C. It emphasises the use of simple, low-cost tests that GPs can implement to improve long-term health outcomes. This approach aims to enhance public health by ensuring that more patients receive appropriate care. The focus on these strategies is particularly relevant for primary care practices.
- 06
GAO calls for improved infectious disease surveillance in the US
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report urging the United States to enhance its surveillance of emerging infectious diseases. A roundtable of 18 experts recommended a comprehensive national strategy that includes monitoring wastewater, farm animals, and high-risk populations. The report comes as the U.S. risks losing its measles elimination status and amid ongoing debates about the origins of the Covid pandemic. Experts also emphasised the need for effective public messaging to improve health surveillance communication.
MDDR is a news digest for medical professionals. It is not medical advice and should not be relied on for clinical decision-making.