Academy welcomes Government ban on use of genetic testing results by insurers

The Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences, which recently called for a total ban on the use of genetic testing results in life insurance underwriting, welcomes the Government’s announcement that it will outlaw the practice. The Academy established its official position after Fellows observed patients refusing critical genetic tests and potential participants withdrawing from […]
Breast cancer biologist wins Outstanding Female Researcher Medal

A molecular and cellular biologist whose work to understand the root of breast cancer at a cellular level has been awarded the 2024 Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences Outstanding Female Researcher Medal. Professor Jane Visvader FRS FAA FAHMS, Joint Head of ACRF Cancer Biology and Stem Cells Division at WEHI, has been recognised […]
Academy urges Government to ban the use of genetic testing by life insurance industry

The Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences (AAHMS) has called on the Federal Government to ban the use of genetic testing results in life insurance underwriting amid concerns of discrimination. Academy President Professor Louise Baur said the Academy had released a position statement confirming its stance after Fellows witnessed patients declining vital genetic tests […]
Academy welcomes eight new mentees

Eight rising stars will join the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences (AAHMS) as Associate Members, after being selected from a competitive national pool of applicants. Associate Members join the Academy for three years as part of its mentorship program, where they are paired with experienced Fellows as mentors. AAHMS Mentorship Program Chair and […]
AAHMS welcomes National Science and Research Priorities and National Science Statement

The Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences (AAHMS) welcomes the Australian Government’s release of the new National Science and Research Priorities and the National Science Statement. As a leading body representing the health and medical sciences community, AAHMS is particularly encouraged by the government’s recognition of the critical role that research and innovation play […]
August 2024 newsletter

Welcome to the August 2024 newsletter. In this edition: A message from our President Policy News Events Congratulations Fellows in the news A message from our President Earlier this year, AAHMS Fellows joined an international working group to advocate for “transformational change” to improve children’s health and wellbeing. The initiative was spearheaded by the UK […]