17 June 2019 - Doctors could be prevented from prescribing repeats of antibiotics as authorities consider radical plans to contain the dangerous spread of superbugs through hospita­ls, aged-care homes and the wider community.

With limited progress so far on containing the threat, health ­professionals have been put on ­notice that government intervention is now likely — and may extend to the fields of agriculture and environment.

The Australian has learned the federal Department of Health is considering changes to prescribing rules for antibiotics that may restrict or remove doctors’ ability to prescribe repeats.

A departmental spokeswoman said yesterday a report on the issue was expected to be ­considered by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee this year.

Read The Australian article