Ophthalmologists have documented what is believed to be the first reported case of permanent loss of visual acuity that may have been induced by SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Read more
Roche’s faricimab meets primary endpoint in DME trial
Swiss drug giant Roche is poised to pursue regulatory clearance for its new faricimab antibody for diabetic macular edema (DME) after it produced a similar effect to Eylea in twin clinical trials, but with half the dosing regimen in several patients. Read more
Zeiss to host APAC January Summit – virtual
Zeiss is hosting its 2021 APAC January Summit this month, featuring live, interactive educational sessions for ophthalmologists and Australia’s own Professor Paul Mitchell. Read more
Aussie firm helping to solve bandwidth issues with smart glasses
Australian-operated company Harvest Technology Group has announced a new agreement to commence proof-of-concept trials with the Belgian producer of industrial smart glasses. Read more
Dispensing wage subsidy ‘back on’ for existing staff after government changes tune
The Federal Government has reversed its decision to restrict a major optical dispensing traineeship wage subsidy to new employees only, reinstating the original criteria that included longer term staff. Read more
MBS Taskforce keeps controversial eye injection proposals in final report
Despite vehement opposition from ophthalmologists, the MBS Taskforce has forged ahead with plans to cut the rebate for intravitreal injections and consider allowing nurses and optometrists to perform the procedure in its final report to the Federal Government. Read more
UNSW academic named guest editor of contact lens journal special issue
UNSW School of Optometry and Vision Science academic and contact lens expert Dr Nicole Carnt has been named as a guest editor for a special issue of a premier international contact lens journal. Read more
Optometry MBS Taskforce Review: Endorsed report released for government consideration
A taskforce overseeing a review into optometric Medicare items has backed 11 of 14 recommendations by an optometry committee. However, a proposal for more frequent eye exams for middle-aged Australians has been rescinded and concerns have been raised over high computerised perimetry usage. Read more
Clinical trial results reinforce potential new treatment for DME
Novartis has announced positive findings from its the Phase 3 trial assessing the efficacy and safety of Beovu (brolucizumab) to treat diabetic macular edema (DME). Read more
Aussie firm pushes for Medicare wording change to standalone MIGS
Nova Eye Medical is seeking a modification to the existing minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) Medicare item number that only came into effect in May, stating the current wording has the unintended consequence of excluding microcatheter technology. Read more