Current Topics and Trends in Australian Healthcare
Australian Healthcare Index (AHI) Survey 2024
Our next patient survey exploring people’s experiences with healthcare in Australia will be distributed in March and published in May. We are framing questions for this survey, so if you have suggestions about what we should be asking consumers of health services, please email info@patients.org.au.
Increase in Covid-19 cases
Covid 19 community transmission remains in high levels particularly in NSW and Victoria with rapid increase in hospitalisations. We urge all Australians to wear masks in places where people congregate in numbers, stay up to date with the Covid 19 vaccine, and if you have symptoms stay home to protect yourself and others.
New hope to patients suffering from Advanced Melanoma
Melanoma is estimated to become the eleventh most common cause of death from cancer in 2023. From 1 February patients suffering from Advanced Melanoma will have access to Opdualag, a treatment which is a combination of immunotherapies, through the Pharmaceutical Benefit Scheme. For more information visit the Melanoma Institute Australia by clicking here.
Diabetes Breakthrough: FDA-Approved Drugs Regenerate Insulin Production in 48 Hours
We’re another step closer to reducing the need for round-the-clock insulin injections to manage diabetes after a new study showed how insulin-producing cells could be regenerated in the pancreas. Click here to read the complete article published in ScienceAlert on 9 January 2024.
GET WELL/STAY WELL articles and tips
Your body already has a built-in weight loss system that works like Wegovy, Ozempic and Mounjaro – food and your gut microbiome
Christopher Damman, Associate Professor of Gastroenterology, School of Medicine, University of Washington recently published an interesting article in The Conversation dated 17 January 2024. He explains that for the majority of the population who don’t have obesity or diabetes, the best approach to promote healthy metabolism may be restarting the gut’s built-in appetite and metabolism control by reintroducing whole foods and awaking the gut microbiome. To read the complete article click here.
10 Fun and Useful Health Tips for a Happier New Year
Sometimes we have to take actions for our health that require long-term planning and perseverance—like establishing an exercise routine or a healthy eating program—but it’s always good to have a few relatively effortless tricks up our sleeve. Click here for access the 10 small action steps published in Psychology Today on 29 December 2023.
Veganuary 2024
Veganuary is a popular annual event that encourages people to try a vegan lifestyle for the entire month of January. It’s a global movement that aims to promote veganism by raising awareness about the ethical, environmental, and health benefits of a plant-based diet. During Veganuary, participants pledge to go vegan and explore a world of delicious, cruelty-free foods, and they receive support and resources to make the transition easier. Click here to register.
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