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.
14 Jan 2026
Productivity Commission pushes stronger hospital–PHN partnerships
Closer and more formal collaboration between hospitals and Primary Health Networks (PHNs) is needed to improve health outcomes and system efficiency, according to the Productivity Commission.
14 Jan 2026
Daily weight-loss pill approved in US, experts urge caution
A new daily pill for weight management has been approved in the United States, raising hopes it could offer a more accessible alternative to injectable treatments — though experts say long-term evidence is still limited.
14 Jan 2026
Therapeutic Guidelines Release Major Antibiotic Update
Australia’s Therapeutic Guidelines has released its final antibiotic update for 2025, introducing significant changes across several key clinical areas, including perinatal infections, surgery, skin infections and wound management.
13 Jan 2026
ECG Rebates for GPs Back From March 2026
GPs will be able to claim MBS item 11714 for electrocardiograms (ECGs) from 1 March 2026, reversing a five-year-old funding cut.
13 Jan 2026
Study Warns Weight-Loss Drugs Don’t Deliver Lasting Results Alone
Weight-loss medications may help people shed kilos initially, but most patients regain the weight within two years of stopping treatment, according to a major international analysis.
13 Jan 2026
PBS Kicks Off 2026 With New and Expanded Medicine Listings
Australians are seeing the first new Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) medicine listings for 2026, including expanded access to an arthritis treatment for children and new therapies for rare liver disease and multiple sclerosis.
12 Jan 2026
Government Moves Toward PBS Listing for Wegovy
The Federal Government has begun steps toward listing the weight-loss medicine Wegovy on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), following a recommendation from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC).