28 November 2025 - Top Stories

Australia has launched its first National Skin Cancer Scorecard, revealing significant gaps in prevention, early detection, and treatment. The scorecard underscores low public awareness and confidence in self-examination, especially for keratinocyte cancers, which are the most common and deadly forms. Addressing these gaps could reduce skin cancer mortality and health disparities, signalling a need for coordinated prevention efforts and investment in public education.

Recent insights from international conferences highlight promising developments in cardiovascular care and mental health. Trials suggest shorter, safer medication courses post-stent placement and improved adherence through single-pill regimens. Meanwhile, Australia faces a rising trend in ADHD medication prescriptions, with over four million scripts in 2023, raising concerns about misuse and dependency. Strengthening prescription oversight and harm reduction strategies are critical to managing this growth.

Vaccination rates for children under two have fallen below 90 percent in some states, increasing the risk of measles outbreaks. While rates at 12 and 60 months remain above 90 percent, the downward trend calls for enhanced digital communication and targeted vaccination campaigns to maintain Australia’s elimination status.

Digital health initiatives face challenges amid staff cuts and security concerns. The Australian government’s 10-year plan aims to modernise healthcare infrastructure, but workforce shortages and underfunding threaten progress. In contrast, Ireland’s real-time, connected cardiac registry demonstrates how integrated systems can improve safety, compliance, and clinical efficiency, offering a model for Australia’s digital transformation.

Expansion of telehealth services continues, with Moshy extending into New Zealand to support non-urgent care and alleviate GP pressures. Meanwhile, Australia’s focus on strengthening primary care includes new standards for counsellors, aiming to improve mental health access. The upcoming RACGP Hackathon in Sydney will foster innovation in digital health solutions, reflecting a broader push to enhance primary care delivery.

• Launch of Australia’s Skin Cancer Scorecard highlights prevention gaps
• International cardiovascular insights suggest safer, simpler treatments
• Rising ADHD prescriptions demand better oversight
• Child vaccination rates need reinforcement to prevent outbreaks
• Digital health progress hindered by staffing and security issues
• Ireland’s registry model offers a blueprint for Australia
• Telehealth expansion and new primary care standards support access