The inhibition zone of (a, b) Pseudomonas aeruginosa and (c, d) Staphylococcus aureus by chitosan–poly(vinyl alcohol)–gelatin–thyme honey hydrogel films. Note that the film on the left side of the petri dish in (a, b) as well as the right side of (c, d) are films composed of 0.03, 0.04, 0.03, and 0.03g/mL of chitosan, PVA, gelatin, and honey, respectively. The right film in (a, b) and the top film in (c, d) is composed of 0.05, 0.02, 0.03, and 0.03g/mL. Finally, the left film in (c, d) is composed of 0.05, 0.04, 0.03, and 0.03g/mL of chitosan, PVA, gelatin, and honey, respectively. Reprinted with permission from Lahooti et al. 59

Some drugs may have Authority Required (Streamlined) status which does not require an explicit approval from Medicare, instead the doctor can use the Authority code found in the published Schedule for a given drug/indication. Thoroughly clean the wound with a saline solution. (Here’s a recipe from IntermountainHealthcare). Then, if necessary, apply a barrier cream around the edges of the wound. Barrier cream prevents skin breakdown and infection. MEDIHONEY looks similar in appearance and texture to traditional store-bought honey, but it’s not a sweetener. Instead, it provides an all-natural way to treat open wounds, preventing gangrene and infection. Often, wounds that have progressed carry a malodorous smell. MEDIHONEY has also been shown to decrease odors that may accompany wounds. If you care for a loved one with underlying health problems like diabetes or venous insufficiency, MEDIHONEY can reduce the risk of infections, support the removal of necrotic tissue, and encourage the body’s natural wound healing process. MEDIHONEY is a brand name wound and burn gel made from 100% Leptospermum (Manuka) honey. Manuka honey is unique in that it has antibacterial and bacterial resistant properties, meaning it prevents bacteria from building a tolerance to its beneficial effects.

MediHoney® dressings are made with a special honey that is derived from the nectar of the Leptospermum plant. This type of honey has unique properties that have been scientifically verified and shown in clinical trials and by other clinical evidence to be effective for the management of wounds and burns. 1-3 Combining 80% antibacterial manuka honey with natural waxes and oils, it forms a highly viscous gel that is easy to apply and easy to wash away. Ideal for use directly on the skin and under dressings to reduce trauma and pain during dressing changes. Unlike regular honey, MediHoney is controlled against a rigorous set of systems and standards, including independent monitoring and auditing, to guarantee quality and batch-to-batch consistency. It is also ultra-filtrated and sterilized by gamma irradiation, removing any bacterial spores without loss of product effectiveness. 3 MediHoney comes from a traceable source and is free of pesticides and antibiotics. 3

Cutting KF. Honey and contemporary wound care: An overview. Ostomy Wound Manage. 2007;53(11):49–54. MEDIHONEY has become the go-to wound care product for many Americans. It comes in both prescription-strength and over-the-counter formulas and provides a safe, effective, way to manage burns, arterial ulcers, and surgical wounds. Leg ulcers, pressure ulcers, first- and second-degree burns, diabetic foot ulcers, surgical wounds, and traumatic wounds 88Lusby PE, Coombes A, Wilkinson JM. Honey. A potent agent for wound healing? J Wound Ostomy Continence Nurs. 2002;29(6):295–300. MediHoney dressings are safe, effective and versatile to use on a variety of wounds and are indicated for use on: Some PBS medications are restricted and require prior approval from Medicare before a doctor is able to prescribe them on the PBS. This prior approval to prescribe grants the doctor the Authority to prescribe the desired medicine and have it funded under the PBS. The gel sheet is helpful in treating a wide variety ofmild to moderately exudating wounds. ForDRY woundsthese should be managed withMedihoney Antibacterial Medical Honey.