The Good GP

• Health of the Nation: General Practice Insights and Challenges in Australia

  In this episode of The Good GP, host Dr Tim Koh welcomes Dr Michael Wright, President of the RACGP, for a discussion centred on the recently released Health of the Nation report. Now in its ninth year, the report serves as a key barometer for the state of general practice in Australia, covering trends in service provision, access, key challenges, and broader implications for practitioners.Key Points: Australian GPs delivered over 170 million services last year and saw nearly 23 million Australians, with more than 2 million visits each week.Survey data show 99% of patients reported being able to access a GP when needed, although some were unable to see their preferred GP, at their preferred time, or faced out-of-pocket costs.The top reason for GP consultations is psychological conditions (e.g., depression, anxiety).GPs are treating older populations and more chronic illnesses, resulting in longer and more complex consultations. Now lasting close to 20 minutes.Despite increased workload and complexity, per-person expenditure on general practice has remained flat for a decade, while hospital spending has increased.Nearly one-third of GPs have witnessed racism within the health system, and one in five have experienced it personally.The RACGP is committed to recognising, measuring, and addressing racism, guided by findings from its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander faculty.Continued efforts are needed to ensure long-term sustainability and quality care for Australian communities.The Good GP Podcast is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/networkIf you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to [email protected]. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information.

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• Chronic Rhinosinusitis in Primary Care: Practical Tips from ENT Surgeon Dr Jo-Lyn McKenzie

  In this episode of The Good GP, host Dr Krystyna de Lange is joined by Dr Jo-Lyn McKenzie, an ENT surgeon, researcher, and university lecturer based in Brisbane, for a discussion on chronic rhinosinusitis and its management in primary care.Dr McKenzie begins by outlining the key clinical features that distinguish chronic rhinosinusitis from other common nasal conditions. Highlighting the importance of chronic nasal obstruction and persistent discharge, and that chronicity, which is greater than three months of symptoms, is a critical factor in making the diagnosis. Dr McKenzie also addresses the challenges of differentiating between chronic sinusitis and allergic rhinitis, its differences in symptom persistence, the nature of the discharge, and the utility of detailed history-taking.They discuss the value and technique of medical management in the general practice setting. Detailing the use of high-volume saline nasal irrigation and intranasal corticosteroids as first-line treatments, providing practical tips to improve patient compliance and effectiveness. She stresses the importance of correct technique and regular use, addressing common misconceptions about side effects. Referral to ENT is discussed, with Dr McKenzie explaining when specialist review is indicated. She also comments on the accessibility of ENT services in both public and private settings.The Good GP Podcast is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/networkIf you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to [email protected]. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information.

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• Dementia Prevention: The Role of Health, Lifestyle, and Awareness

  In this episode of This Could Save Your Life podcast, hosts Dr Catherine Bourke and Dr Anna Mullins explore the important topic of dementia prevention. With an aging population, dementia is becoming increasingly prevalent. The episode delves into what dementia actually is, addressing common misconceptions that it is solely a memory issue. They explain that dementia is a progressive condition characterised by a range of symptoms including memory changes, shifts in mood or behavior, and challenges in thinking.Highlighting early signs of dementia, Dr Mullins categorises symptoms into memory changes, alterations in thinking, and shifts in personality, mood, or behavior. Notably, unusual placement of everyday items and confusion about time and place are also discussed. They stress the importance of early intervention and the benefits of speaking to a healthcare provider for advice, treatment, and supportive resources.For those seeking proactive ways to prevent dementia, Dr Bourke introduces the CogDrisk tool from Neuroscience Research Australia, which provides evidence-based guidance on reducing risk factors. Prevention strategies cover a lifespan perspective, addressing early life education, lifestyle choices like managing cholesterol, diabetes, and blood pressure, as well as the significance of addressing hearing and vision issues. They also highlight depression, traumatic brain injuries, and social isolation as risk factors.The episode also includes the importance of lifestyle habits like exercise, healthy eating, and maintaining social connections, alongside addressing any existing health conditions. Concluding with a reminder to take control of one's health and to utilise the available resources for reducing dementia risk.Links & Resources:https://www.dementia.org.au/get-support/national-dementia-helplinehttps://www.dementia.org.au/https://cogdrisk.neura.edu.au/This Could Save Your Life Podcast is under The Good GP podcast, a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/networkMentioned in this episode:What if we could make HIV history? It might be closer than you think.What if we could make HIV history? It might be closer than you think. PrEP is one simple tool that can help eliminate HIV transmission. GPs can prescribe PrEP with no special training. Find out more, and who might benefit, at ashm.org.au/prep.ASHM PrEP

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• Things I wish I knew as a New Fellow

  In this special live episode of The Good GP, Dr Sean Stevens and Dr Catherine Bourke are interviewed by Dr Bethany Reynolds, Chair of the WA New Fellows Committee, at the RACGP Early Career GPs Conference in the Swan Valley, on Whadjuk Nyongar Country. Discussing key lessons and insights for GPs transitioning from fellowship training to early career practice.Key topics covered:Business and Administration for New Fellows: The importance of setting aside funds for the first tax bill when transitioning to contractor status, and key considerations for thinking about oneself as a business, setting appropriate fees, and effectively communicating billing with patients.Understanding Risk and Wellbeing: Discussing not only financial and legal risks but also the psychological demands of general practice. Which includes practising within a supportive team environment and prioritising professional longevity.Shaping Your Practice and Case Mix: Exploring practical strategies for finding enjoyment and meaning in daily work. Mentioning the value of understanding personal drivers (ikigai), developing niche areas of clinical interest, and using support networks and mentors for ongoing professional development.Managing Challenging Consultations: Strategies for handling heart-sink patients and complex consults, and the importance of setting boundaries, reframing expectations, and developing strong consultation management skills.Mentorship in Early Career: Both Dr Stevens and Dr Bourke share their experiences with mentors and the benefits of both formal and informal mentorship relationships. Encouraging to seek out mentors in various aspects of general practice and practice ownership.The Good GP Podcast is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/networkIf you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to [email protected]. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information.Mentioned in this episode:What if we could make HIV history? It might be closer than you think.What if we could make HIV history? It might be closer than you think. PrEP is one simple tool that can help eliminate HIV transmission. GPs can prescribe PrEP with no special training. Find out more, and who might benefit, at ashm.org.au/prep.ASHM PrEP

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• Perinatal Mental Health: Impacts on Families and How GPs Can Help

  In this episode of The Good GP, host Dr Julia Rawlinson is joined by Dr Lynette Griffiths, GP registrar and perinatal clinical psychologist, and Dr Erin Seeto, clinical and counselling psychologist and Clinical Services Manager at the Gidget Foundation. Discussing the topic of perinatal mental health, focusing on the impact on families, the healthcare system, and the broader community.Beginning with an overview of the prevalence and spectrum of perinatal mental health conditions, covering not only postnatal depression and anxiety but also a range of issues such as PTSD, birth trauma, OCD, and the significance of intrusive thoughts. Highlighting the effects of untreated perinatal mental health issues, including disruptions to parent-infant bonding, relationship stress, and risks to the mental and physical wellbeing of children. Providing practical strategies and advice for GPs to support and assess parents. The importance of routine screening for mental health concerns during both antenatal and postnatal visits. As well as the necessity of validating parents’ experiences, normalising mental health struggles, and engaging both mothers and partners in screening, to which their mental health may be different across genders.Discussing key resources and support available for families and GPs across Australia, including telehealth services, group programs, public mental health services, and helplines such as those provided by the Gidget Foundation and PANDA.Links & Resources:For Clients: Fact Sheets: https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/resources/fact-sheetsBlogs: https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/gidget-blogPodcast: https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/resources/1-in-5-mothers-1-in-10-fathersReal Stories: https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/real-stories/gidget-angel-stories For Health Professionals: How To Refer: https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/health-professionals/how-to-refer-a-patientResource Library: https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/resource-libraryOther support services: https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/support/other-support-servicesThe Good GP Podcast is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/networkIf you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to [email protected]. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information.Mentioned in this episode:What if we could make HIV history? It might be closer than you think.What if we could make HIV history? It might be closer than you think. PrEP is one simple tool that can help eliminate HIV transmission. GPs can prescribe PrEP with no special training. Find out more, and

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