RACGP welcomes move to reduce administrative burden on GPs

The Dept of Health and Aged Care releases quarterly Medicare statistics in an accessible infographic format - the Jul-Sep YTD 2023 period saw slight decreases in Medicare and Bulk Billed Services compared to last year, with the National Bulk Billing Rate decreased from 78.1% to 74.5%. Despite this, total benefits paid increased, while the Average (out-of-hospital) Patient Contribution was less than last year at $72.64, compared to $72.87 in 2022.

This RACGP News article explores a new report for the government's Special Commission of Inquiry into Healthcare Funding. The report is co-authored by the NSW Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerry Chant, and it makes important observations regarding the current funding model - including its lack of funding for preventative health care strategies, and its inefficient support of innovative service delivery and the development of new models of care, especially out-of-hospital models of care.

This Media and News item from the Department of Health and Aged Care is notifying Bachelor of Nursing students of the opportunity to apply for high-quality clinical placements in the aged care sector through the Aged Care Nursing Clinical Placements Program. It provides links to further information, including application details and requirments.

This Australian Defense Force News story, by Flight Lieutenant Claire Campbell, explores the rewards and challenges of providing remote visits and essential dental care to Australia's First Nation communities, as part of a two-person dental team from 2 Expeditionary Health Squadron.