Industry News
Coating reduces catheter pain and infection risk
Users of urinary catheters will benefit from significantly reduced pain and infection risk thanks to a new antimicrobial coating. [ + ]
Future-ready solutions at MEDICAL FAIR ASIA
The three-day exhibition is set to showcase more than 12,000 healthcare products and innovations for the hospital, diagnostic, pharmaceutical, medical and rehabilitation sectors. [ + ]
Second schizophrenia subtype identified
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have identified two distinct neuroanatomical subtypes of schizophrenia after analysing the brain scans of more than 300 patients. [ + ]
Study suggests chest CT to diagnose COVID-19
A Chinese study of more than 1000 patients has found that chest CT outperformed lab testing in the diagnosis of COVID-19. [ + ]
Bye-bye, dry eye
The TGA has approved a novel ciclosporin solution for the treatment of dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), a condition affecting 7.4% of Australians. [ + ]
Consultation open on digital mental health standards
The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care is calling on consumers, carers, clinicians, service providers and interested stakeholders to provide feedback on the draft standards. [ + ]
Vitalcare releases IP nurse call platform
The platform enables fast communication, improved workflows and staff efficiencies, enhanced patient care and safety, and simplified implementation. [ + ]
Ahpra urges consumers to be safe before cosmetic surgery
The 'be safe first' campaign advises consumers of the risks associated with cosmetic procedures, particularly those offered by unregistered practitioners. [ + ]
Merge forms Australasian Institute of Digital Health
The new peak body for health informatics and digital health — The Australasian Institute of Digital Health — is officially open. [ + ]
SHPA releases new standard for geriatric medicine pharmacists
The standard highlights the need for pharmacists with specific geriatric medicine expertise to work as part of interdisciplinary teams to improve the safety and quality of care for older Australians. [ + ]
Virtual gaming helps rehab patients get back on their feet
A global trial into the effects of digital devices in rehabilitation has found that virtual reality video games, activity monitors and handheld computer devices can help people stand and walk. [ + ]
March masterclasses on mild cognitive impairment
Global experts in general practice, geriatric medicine, nursing, pharmacy and more are participating in Australia's inaugural Driving Change Mild Cognitive Impairment masterclasses next month. [ + ]
Spike in mental health distress calls since start of bushifre crisis
Lifeline has launched a purpose-built helpline to support those affected by the recent Australian bushfire crisis. [ + ]
Golden staph bloodstream infection rate stable, says report
An AIHW report says Australian public hospitals are exceeding the national target for reducing golden staph bloodstream infections, with a stable infection rate reported for the last five years. [ + ]
Accolades for private hospital patient care
The 2020 APHA Awards for Excellence will be announced next month, recognising the high quality of care Australians receive from private hospitals. [ + ]