Sunday, 16 August 2026
New ACRRM President announced, Opioid strategies for cancer pain, Fiji's urgent HIV outbreak crisis
- 01
Dr. Claire Arundell named new ACRRM President
Dr. Claire Arundell has been announced as the next President of the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM), set to officially take office at the college’s Annual General Meeting in October. Currently residing on Norfolk Island, Dr. Arundell has extensive experience in rural generalist practice and has previously served as Chair of ACRRM’s Council. She expressed her honour and excitement to lead the college, emphasising the importance of rural generalists in healthcare. Outgoing President Dr. Rod Martin praised her commitment to the profession and the communities served by ACRRM members.
via RACGP newsGP
- 02
Dr. Wong discusses rapid-onset opioids for breakthrough cancer pain
Dr. Aaron Wong addressed the assessment and management of breakthrough cancer pain, focusing on the role of rapid-onset opioids. His insights are particularly relevant for healthcare professionals involved in palliative care. The discussion highlights the importance of effective pain management strategies in oncology settings. This content is accessible exclusively to AHPRA registered professionals.
- 03
Fiji faces urgent HIV outbreak as regional health crisis
Fiji is experiencing the fastest growing HIV outbreak globally, with a prevalence of 1.6% among adults, equating to about one in 60 adults living with the virus. Only one-third of those infected are aware of their status, and just a quarter are receiving treatment. Experts predict that yearly infections could triple by 2030, with significant implications for regional health security. The Pacific HIV Symposium in Fiji aims to address this public health emergency, which is compounded by factors such as rising methamphetamine use and stigma surrounding HIV.
- 04
Legislation to Tighten NDIS Eligibility Set for Passage
Legislation to tighten eligibility for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) could pass as early as next week, following a recommendation from a Labor-led Senate committee. The bill aims to reduce NDIS spending by A$37.8 billion over four years, primarily by restricting access and reducing funding for social participation. Government modelling suggests around 240,000 existing participants may exit the NDIS by 2031, with significant impacts expected for children, those with psychosocial disabilities, and individuals in regional areas. The changes will be implemented in stages, starting from October 2026.
- 05
RSV vaccination programme halves ICU admissions for newborns in England
A national vaccination programme in England has reportedly halved the number of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) related admissions of newborn infants to intensive care units (ICUs). According to figures from the UK Health Security Agency, there was more than a 50% reduction in admissions during the first full year of the RSV maternal vaccine programme, which began in September 2024. The programme's impact was anticipated to be significant as more pregnant women became eligible over the past year. RSV can lead to severe bronchiolitis in infants, necessitating ICU support.
via BMJ
- 06
Capricor shares surge as FDA open to Duchenne therapy review
Capricor Therapeutics shares increased by over 60% after CEO Linda Marbán announced that the FDA is willing to review an updated submission for its Duchenne muscular dystrophy cell therapy, deramiocel. Although an FDA panel previously voted against the therapy for Duchenne-related cardiomyopathy, it showed support for its impact on upper limb function. Marbán stated that the company plans to amend its application with new follow-up data to support a refined indication, with a decision deadline set for August 22.
via BioPharma Dive
MDDR is a news digest for medical professionals. It is not medical advice and should not be relied on for clinical decision-making.