19 Jan 2026
GPs Could Soon Predict Dementia Risk in Stroke Patients with New Tool
Researchers in Sydney have developed a practical tool that could help GPs identify stroke survivors at risk of developing dementia. The study, led by the University of New South Wales (UNSW) and published in Neurology, analysed data from more than 2,600 stroke patients across 12 international studies to create a model that predicts dementia risk within five years.
19 Jan 2026
‘Urgent Need’ to Plan for Extreme Weather, Study Warns
A new study by researchers at the Australian National University (ANU), published in ScienceDirect (Tong et al., 2026), shows that extreme weather is already driving a significant number of hospital visits in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).
15 Jan 2026
When patients use AI, GPs can be part of the answer
As more Australians turn to artificial intelligence for health information, general practitioners have an opportunity to guide its use and push for stronger safeguards, writes Dr Janice Tan.
16 Jan 2026
GPs raise concerns over low-dose iron supplements ‘barely more than cornflakes
Low-dose iron supplements have come under scrutiny, with some health professionals calling them “a waste of time.” The debate highlights ongoing issues around over-the-counter products sold in supermarkets and online.
16 Jan 2026
Extra measles dose urged for infants travelling overseas
Australian health experts are reminding families to check their children’s vaccinations before heading overseas, with updated advice recommending an extra measles vaccine dose for young infants who travel internationally.
16 Jan 2026
Lung cancer screening off to a strong start
Australia’s first new national cancer screening program in nearly 20 years is already seeing strong participation, with tens of thousands of people coming forward since its launch last year.
15 Jan 2026
In Practice: DVA removes prior approval for some health services
From 1 January 2026, certain health services for Veteran Card holders no longer require prior financial approval from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), making it easier and faster for veterans to access care. Providers can now claim these services through existing channels using the updated DVA fee schedule. A full list of services is available on the DVA website.
15 Jan 2026
Inquiry backs new Medicare item for GP child development checks
A Parliamentary committee has recommended the introduction of a new Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) item for child development checks, strengthening the case for GPs to play a central role in the upcoming Thriving Kids initiative.
15 Jan 2026
First BBPIP payments to reach GPs by end of January
Eligible general practices and GPs are set to receive the first instalment from the Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (BBPIP) by the end of January, the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing (DoHDA) has confirmed.
14 Jan 2026
Victoria expands pharmacist prescribing under Community Pharmacist Program
Victorian pharmacists can now supply additional hormonal contraceptives and treat impetigo without a prescription, following the latest expansion of the State Government’s Community Pharmacist Program.