Tasmanian medical research charity funds projects that have a global impact and improve community health and well-being.
- Tasmanian medical research charity funds projects that support community health and well-being, with clinicians and researchers working across the health system and university.
- Tasmanian medical research on childhood cataracts and gene variants can be easily studied and applied globally due to the small population and genetic diversity of the island state.
- The Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation funds medical research in various fields to support the Tasmanian community, in areas such as cardiothoracic, neurological conditions, and premature babies.
- Research supported by RHHRF has led to the development of innovative treatments for JackJumper ant bites, resulting in the establishment of a desensitisation clinic at the hospital and a significant reduction in deaths from anaphylactic shocks caused by these bites.
- Tasmanian medical research has had a global impact, with projects like the Hobart Method being implemented in neonatal clinics worldwide, and blood pressure testing research involving patients from Tasmania, China, Italy, and other countries.
Australian Health Journal spoke to Stephanie Furler the Chief Executive Officer of The Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation about the impact of this research locally and in global health.
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Landmark Australian-led study revises thresholds to diagnose and treat anaemia
In 2014, WEHI researchers began a study at the request of the World Health Organization (WHO), to formally review its global anaemia guidelines that were last updated in 1968.
Study lead and Acting WEHI Deputy Director, Professor Sant-Rayn Pasricha, speaking to Australian Health Journal said while anaemia can be diagnosed by measuring the amount of haemoglobin in the blood, there is currently no consensus on the thresholds that should be used to define the condition. -
The quest to create an Australian framework for a Palliative Care Pharmacist
Helen Stone is the State and Territory Manager SA & NT for the Pharmaceutical Society Australia. Her professional interests include palliative care, pharmacist professional services, mental health, leadership, and management.
She has recently led teams of pharmacists in innovative pharmacy practice models including in aged care, GP practice, palliative care and dementia support. This has contributed to the body of evidence for sustainable funding for embedded pharmacist roles in primary care and aged care settings.
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Study on digital tool for pharmacists in aged care
In March 2022, the Australia government announced $350 million of funding over 4 years to employ on-site pharmacists in residential aged care, starting July 2023. In April 2023, the government made changes to the proposed on-site pharmacists, where the new program will now be delivered by and through community pharmacies. Regardless of how the model will be implemented, the goal remains the same – to improve quality use of medicines and medicines safety for aged care residents.
