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In this episode, Dr Tim Koh speaks with Dr Grace Phua, a GP and public health clinician from the Health Department of Western Australia’s Syphilis Response Team, to provide an update on syphilis in Australia and practical guidance for general practitioners. Key Points: Changing Epidemiology: They highlight the recent increase in syphilis, with cases now extending beyond traditional higher-risk groups. All sexually active patients may be at risk, making ongoing awareness in general practice essential.Clinical Presentation: The primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary stages of syphilis, noting the diverse and often atypical presentations. Classic signs such as ulcers and rashes may vary, and neurological symptoms can occur at any stage.Screening and Testing: GPs are reminded to include syphilis serology in routine STI screening and to swab any ulcer for syphilis PCR (using a dry swab and requesting “syphilis PCR” on the form). Pregnant people require syphilis screening in early and late pregnancy, and higher-risk groups need more frequent testing.Serology Interpretation and Treatment: The use of treponemal and non-treponemal tests. Benzathine benzylpenicillin is the recommended treatment. Empirical treatment of contacts, especially for hard-to-reach patients, is encouraged.Further Resources and Support: GPs are advised to access national guidelines and decision-making aids for detailed management and to consult public health units as required. 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/network If 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. You can also find us on our Instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

In this episode of The Good GP, host Julia Rawlinson welcomes Dr Erin Horsley, an experienced GP anaesthetist, to provide practical guidance on pre-anaesthetic medication management for general practitioners. Focusing on how to prepare patients for elective surgery by knowing which medications to pause, continue, or adjust. Highlights include: SGLT2 inhibitors: Advice on withholding these medications prior to surgery, especially for diabetic patients, due to risk of euglycaemic diabetic ketoacidosis.Diabetes medications and insulin: Specific instructions for perioperative management in procedures such as colonoscopy and gastroscopy.GLP-1 receptor agonists: Discussion on Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. They emphasise that stopping them is not routinely required. Instead, they recommend clear fluid fasting protocols.Anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents: Practical approaches for managing DOACs, warfarin, and antiplatelet therapy based on procedure risk, including guidance on bridging and specialist consultation.Other medications: Tips on ACE inhibitors, opioids, and pain medications regarding continuation or withholding.Useful GP actions: An accurate medication list, allergy documentation, and direct communication with anaesthetic teams or pre-admission clinics. Providing concise, evidence-based recommendations for medication management in the perioperative setting to assist GPs and ensure safer outcomes for their patients. Links & Resources: NSW CEC Guidelines on Perioperative management of anticoagulant and antiplatelet agentsWA Country Health Service Anaesthetic Services, Pre-operative Assessment and Investigations Guideline(good summary)Australian Diabetes Society Periprocedural DKA with SGLT-2 inhibitorAustralian Diabetes Society Perioperative Diabetes and Hyperglycaemia Guidelines 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/network If 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. You can also find us on our Instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

In this episode, Julia Rawlinson speaks with Professor Paul Little, is a Professor of Primary Care Research at the University of Southampton and a practising GP with over 20 years of clinical experience, about his landmark research on acute respiratory tract infections and its relevance for general practice. Professor Little summarises the Lancet Respiratory Medicine trial involving nearly 14,000 participants at risk of respiratory infections. The trial compared usual care, two nasal sprays (Vicks First Defense and isotonic saline), and a digital lifestyle intervention. Both nasal sprays resulted in fewer days ill, reduced antibiotic use by around 30%, and were well tolerated. The saline spray was highlighted as a first-choice option due to its effectiveness and minimal side effects. Giving practical advice on counselling patients to use nasal sprays at the first sign of illness, with discussion around challenges to adherence and the rationale for early use. They also explore the antiviral mechanism of saline spray and the continued value of stress management and physical activity in infection prevention. Professor Little discusses how setting realistic expectations about infection duration can help reduce unnecessary presentations and prescribing, and how these simple interventions contribute to antibiotic stewardship in primary care. Links & Resources: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/people/5wzg2s/professor-paul-little#publications12 month follow-up of a randomised open label trial of nasal sprays and a behavioural intervention for respiratory tract infections (RTIs) in primary care: https://eprints.soton.ac.uk/507356/ 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/network If 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. You can also find us on our Instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

In this episode of This Could Save Your Life podcast, Dr Catherine Bourke discusses the new lung cancer screening program in Australia and its importance for early cancer detection. Dr Bourke explains that lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related death in Australia, largely because most cases are detected too late. She reviews recent evidence supporting screening, such as the Nelson Study and National Lung Screening Trial, which show significant reductions in mortality with the use of low-dose CT. Key eligibility criteria for the screening program are ages 50–70, current or recent smokers (within 10 years of quitting), and a history of at least 30 pack-years. Providing guidance on enrolment, the screening process, and clarifies pack-year calculation. She also addresses misconceptions about lung cancer only affecting smokers and explores the impact of stigma and nicotine dependence. Detailing the essentials for general practice, including how to refer patients, what to expect from the CT scan process, and how results and nodule management protocols inform follow-up and specialist referral. GPs are encouraged to support eligible patients to participate for better outcomes through early detection and advances in lung cancer treatment. Links & Resources: The heart of Australia: https://heartofaustralia.com.au/National lung cancer cancer screening program: https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/nlcsp?gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23576447207&gbraid=0AAAAA_Hdu8ldTc75J8nw1zqot-Q-9Peic&gclid=Cj0KCQjw7IjOBhDyARIsAFzrWQz0u-84xCTnyQspBM7pE0tkVszhnlnMuCMcyRVZOJ8uSpoG3AjwAUwaAkBoEALw_wcB 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/network If 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. You can also find us on our Instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

In this episode, Dr Krystyna de Lange is once again joined by Dr Karen Spielman and Dr Rachel Kalman, GPs with a special interest in eating disorders, for part two of this series on eating disorders. Their conversation centres on the ongoing management of patients with eating disorders in general practice. Dr Kalman provides guidance on the frequency and nature of medical monitoring, including when to order blood tests and ECGs. Dr Spielman discusses how to assess and respond to medical instability, particularly cardiovascular risks and rapid weight loss, while emphasising clinical judgment and individualised care. They discuss common medical complications associated with eating disorders, such as cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and endocrine issues, along with practical tips for symptom management and patient education. The importance of the GP’s role in long-term management, continuity of care, and maintaining hope for recovery. A detailed walkthrough of the Eating Disorder Treatment Plan (EDP), addressing eligibility, use of templates, and the expanded access to psychological and dietetic support. They encourage GPs to utilise the EDP and Medicare Safety Net to make comprehensive care more accessible for patients. Dr Rachel Kalman also discusses the review of an eating disorder management plan. Please note that this review can occur via a psychiatrist or paediatrician, not a psychologist as mentioned in the episode. Links & Resources: Inside Out Institute GP Hub: https://gp.insideoutinstitute.org.auCEED Table for medical monitoring: https://ceed.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Medical-Monitoring-in-Eating-Disorders.pdfEating Disorders Family Australia: https://edfa.org.auSick Enough Book by Dr Jennifer L. Guadiani: https://www.sickenough.com 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/network If 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. You can also find us on our Instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

In this episode, Dr Krystyna de Lange speaks with Dr Karen Spielman and Dr Rachel Kalman about the screening and assessment of eating disorders in general practice. This is the first episode of a two part series on eating disorders. Both Dr Spielman and Dr Kalman have a special interest in psychological medicine, specifically eating disorders and work with the Inside Out Institute for Eating Disorders. In this episode, there is a discussion about the importance of early recognition and intervention, noting the high morbidity, mortality, and economic impact of eating disorders. High-risk groups for GPs to consider are identified and include young people, those involved in visual sports, hormonal change periods, neurodivergence, and comorbid mental health conditions. Screening strategies are explored, including the Inside Out Screener, a validated, patient-friendly tool designed for primary care. Giving practical advice on engaging patients in open, non-judgmental conversations about their relationship with food. Dr Rachel Kalman outlines how to conduct a thorough assessment, including relevant history, physical examination, and investigations such as blood tests, ECG, and bone density scans. The importance of sensitive communication about test results and understanding medical and psychiatric risk factors is emphasised. This equips GPs with practical approaches and reliable resources for early screening and assessment of eating disorders. Links & Resources: Inside Out Institute GP Hub: https://gp.insideoutinstitute.org.auInside Out screening tool: https://insideoutinstitute.org.au/screenerEating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q): https://insideoutinstitute.org.au/resource-library/eating-disorder-examination-questionnaire-ede-qCentre for Clinical Interventions including patient information and worksheets: https://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/resources/looking-after-yourself/disordered-eatingEating Disorders Family Australia: https://edfa.org.auSick Enough Book by Dr Jennifer L. Guadiani: https://www.sickenough.com 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/network If 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. You can also find us on our Instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

In this episode of The Good GP, Dr Krystyna de Lange welcomes Dr Jonathon Mitchell, hepatologist from Cairns Base Hospital, to discuss metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formally known as Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease or NAFLD. They explore the updated terminology, highlight the role of GPs in diagnosis and management, and frame MASLD as largely a metabolic rather than a primary liver disease. Dr Mitchell outlines the main risk factors for MASLD, including excess weight, metabolic syndrome, dietary quality, and family history. The importance of screening for other liver conditions in patients with abnormal LFTs, including viral hepatitis, autoimmune liver diseases, haemochromatosis, and coeliac disease. Non-invasive fibrosis assessment, primarily through the FIB-4 score, is discussed as an accessible tool for GPs. Liver biopsy is rarely required and reserved for cases with diagnostic uncertainty. Management focuses on lifestyle interventions, mainly dietary change and weight loss, with no approved pharmacological treatments currently available in Australia. Monitoring frequency depends on fibrosis status and response to lifestyle changes. They reinforce the importance of holistic care in primary practice, addressing both liver health and associated metabolic risks. Links & Resources: https://www.racgp.org.au/afp/2013/july/fatty-liver-disease 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/network If 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. You can also find us on our Instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

In this episode of This Could Save Your Life Podcast, Dr Anna Mullins and Dr Catherine Bourke provide a comprehensive and practical overview of the first antenatal visit, building on their previous discussion about preconception care. Aimed at supporting GPs to deliver optimal care at this early stage of pregnancy. Opening with the importance of timely antenatal care, ideally within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy, and the benefits of early and regular antenatal visits on maternal and child health outcomes. Dr Mullins and Dr Bourke detail the process of confirming pregnancy dates, discussing past obstetric history, and creating a supportive environment for patients to express any concerns or fears regarding the current pregnancy. Outlining the value of taking a thorough medical history, including a review of current medications and the management of any chronic medical conditions. Lifestyle factors including smoking, alcohol intake, illicit drug use, and exposure to passive smoking were also discussed, and the role of the GP in facilitating cessation and support services where required. Screening for intimate partner violence was also discussed as a standard part of the first antenatal visit. Preventative health advice with evidence-based guidance on folic acid and iodine supplementation; calcium and low-dose aspirin for women at risk of preeclampsia. Encouragement of regular aerobic and strength exercise unless contraindicated. Referral to women’s health physiotherapy, particularly for pelvic floor assessment and education, is also recommended. Nutrition, weight management, management of pregnancy-related symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and constipation, and the importance of maintaining dental health were also discussed. They also emphasise the role of multidisciplinary care and the involvement of GPs, physiotherapists, dentists, and obstetricians in high-quality antenatal care. 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/network

In this episode of The Good GP, Dr Sean Stevens interviews Dr John Kramer OAM, an experienced rural general practitioner and Chair of the RACGP ASD, ADHD, and Neurodiversity Specific Interest Group, they talked about the evolving role of GPs in ADHD care in Australia. Covering the recent Victorian reforms allowing specialist GPs to diagnose and manage ADHD, and what these changes mean nationally. Dr Kramer explains the current complexities of state-based stimulant prescribing regulations and ongoing efforts to establish a more consistent, national approach. Dr Stevens shares insights from Western Australia’s training initiatives, demonstrating high interest from general practitioners. Giving practical advice for GPs starting out in ADHD diagnosis and management, such as the importance of a detailed developmental history, identification of comorbidities, and collaboration with specialists. Dr Kramer concludes by encouraging GPs to consider a greater role in ADHD care, emphasising the positive impact well-supported general practice can have on patient outcomes. Links & Resources: RACGP https://www.racgp.org.au/advocacy/position-statements/view-all-position-statements/health-systems-and-environmental/adhd-initiation-modification-continuation-by-gpshttps://gpl.racgp.org.au/d2l/le/lessons/7367/units/13000https://gpl.racgp.org.au/d2l/le/lessons/7367/units/12650 AADPA https://aadpa.com.au/https://aadpa.com.au/adhd-resources/https://aadpa.com.au/free-adhd-clinical-resources/ OTHER SOURCES https://aci.health.nsw.gov.au/projects/adhd-in-general-practicehttps://beyondgp.com.au/https://aaadhdig.com.au/ INTERNATIONAL https://www.caddra.ca/https://www.additudemag.com/ CONSUMER GROUPS https://www.adhdaustralia.org.au/https://adhdfoundation.org.au/https://www.adhdwa.org/ 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/network If 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. You can also find us on our instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

In this episode of The Good GP, host Dr Sean Stevens speaks with Professor Nick Zwar, Chair of the RACGP Travel Medicine Specific Interest Group, to discuss the state of travel medicine in Australia post-COVID-19 pandemic. Professor Zwar outlines how the pandemic led to a sudden halt in international travel and impacted travel medicine practice. Many have adapted by shifting their focus back to general practice, advising patients stranded overseas, and planning for a resumption of travel. He also notes the practical implications, such as unused vaccine stock and the adoption of telehealth. Also discussing the resumption of international travel, with Australians returning to pre-pandemic travel levels, including higher-risk activities like cruise ship travel. They observe that despite the risks of infectious diseases, most patients are eager to travel and may not be as concerned about COVID-19 as practitioners might expect. Looking ahead, Professor Zwar identifies several challenges in travel medicine. These include changing patterns of infectious diseases (notably respiratory infections, dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis, and measles), emerging threats like monkeypox (Mpox), and the increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance affecting management of traveler's diarrhoea. He also highlights the complexity of advising immunocompromised travellers, particularly those on biological therapies. 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/network If 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. You can also find us on our instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

In this episode of The Good GP, Dr Krystyna de Lange is joined by Anisa Varasteh, a clinical sexologist, psychotherapist, and former president of the Society of Australian Sexologists, to discuss the topic of female sexual dysfunction and its management in general practice. Anisa Varasteh provides a thorough overview of the multifaceted nature of female sexual dysfunction, emphasising the complex interplay between biological, psychological, relational, and social factors. Highlighting the impact of chronic stress, nervous system overload, and the relational context on sexual function. Psychological factors such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and body image concerns are explored, as well as the influence of cultural myths and social conditioning on female sexuality across the lifespan. Anisa identifies everyday factors influencing desire and arousal, including sleep deprivation, mental load, lack of pleasure outside of sex, unresolved grief, and body image issues. She shares practical strategies for GPs when supporting patients, such as normalising fluctuations in desire, exploring the biopsychosocial context, shifting the focus towards pleasure and connection, and promoting nervous system regulation. Early referral to sexologists or related professionals is suggested, as is the value of providing patients with language and frameworks to have open conversations with their partners. The episode concludes with strategies for empowering patients to discuss their sexual wellbeing without shame or guilt and the benefits of reframing intimacy outside the goal of intercourse. Potential questions to use in assessment of sexual function: What is the concern, and what does it mean to the patient?Is there distress around it?How long has it been present?What is the impact on their life or relationship?In what contexts is it not present?Have they sought help before?How is their general health and mental wellbeing?How do they feel in their relationship?Why is this a concern now? ---- 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/network If 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. You can also find us on our instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates

In this episode of This Could Save Your Life Podcast, hosts Dr Catherine Bourke and Dr Anna Mullins provide an overview of preconception care, and the key considerations for GPs when supporting patients who are planning a pregnancy. Key discussion points include: Initial Assessment: Consider age, reproductive history, and duration of attempts to conceive. Referral for fertility investigation recommended for women over 35 trying for 6 months, or any age trying for 12 months, or women aged 40+.Review of Medical History: Assess chronic conditions: diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, epilepsy (and medication management), thyroid disease, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and asthma.Medication Management: Identify and remove teratogenic medications prior to conception (e.g., isotretinoin, some weight loss medications). Recognise medications that are safe/necessary during pregnancy (such as inhalers for asthma).Dietary Advice: Encourage a balanced diet rich in vegetables, lean meats, fruits, grains, nuts, and dairy; minimise processed foods.Alcohol Consumption: Advise abstinence from alcohol in the period of actively trying to conceive and during early pregnancy.Lifestyle Modification: Smoking cessation strongly recommended for both partners to improve fertility and prevent harm to the fetus and child.Pre-Pregnancy Investigations: Which include routine tests: full blood count, iron studies, electrolytes, liver and kidney function. Check immunity to rubella and varicella; advise vaccination if necessary before pregnancy.Consultation Advice: Recommending dedicated, extended preconception consultations to address medical, lifestyle, and individual patient factors. Links & Resources: For information about listeria is: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/food-poisoning-listeriaFor information about fragile x: https://www.cdc.gov/fragile-x-syndrome/index.html 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/network If 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. You can also find us on our instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

In this episode of The Good GP podcast, Dr Ramya Raman, Vice President of the RACGP and GP, is joined by Dr Sean Stevens, Chair of the RACGP Digital Health and Innovation Specific Interest Group, and Dr Amandeep Hansra, Deputy Chair and esteemed digital health expert, for a discussion about the upcoming RACGP Hackathon event. Beginning with the introduction of what a hackathon is, particularly in the context of general practice. Dr Amandeep describes hackathons as intensive, collaborative events where clinicians, technologists, and entrepreneurs come together to solve real-world problems faced in general practice and develop practical solutions. The unique focus of the RACGP Hackathon on clinically-relevant issues, highlighting the importance of clinician-led innovation. Reflecting on previous events, including the significant outcomes for past participants such as product development, enhanced professional networks, and entry into healthcare innovation accelerator programs. Dr Sean mentions who should consider applying, emphasising that the hackathon is not only for those with technical expertise but is open to any general practitioners interested in innovation, regardless of experience in technology or entrepreneurship. They address the broader challenges facing general practice, including workforce shortages, burnout, patient complexity, and emerging disruptive technologies. Discussing the role of innovation and digital solutions in maintaining the central importance of general practice and improving patient care. Key event information: The RACGP Hackathon will be held in Sydney from 13th to 15th March, 2026Applications close on 29th January, 2026Successful applicants will have the opportunity to compete for a significant cash prize (to be announced) and potential entry into an innovation accelerator program. Join the RACGP Hackathon here: https://hackathon26.au/ 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/network If 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. You can also find us on our instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

In this episode, host Dr Maria Li is joined by Dr Parth Shah, an adult and paediatric ophthalmologist based in Canberra and Sydney, to discuss paediatric squints, also known as paediatric strabismus. Beginning with an overview of why paediatric squints can seem daunting for general practitioners, and the importance of a systematic approach to assessment. Outlining GPs responsibilities when encountering a child with possible eye misalignment: diagnosing whether a true squint or pseudo-squint is present, assessing visual function, and determining the urgency of referral to a specialist. Practical steps for eye examination in babies, particularly at the routine six-week check. Dr Parth Shah offers guidance on inspecting eye alignment, performing the corneal reflex test using a pen torch or ophthalmoscope, and checking the red reflex to rule out conditions such as congenital cataract. As babies develop, the use of dynamic tests such as the cover test becomes more reliable, generally from three to six months of age, allowing for assessment of fixation and equal visual development between the eyes. GPs are advised to initiate urgent referral at any stage if there is concern about poor visual function, abnormal red reflex, or significant limitations in eye movement. Further exploring referral processes, noting that detailed documentation of GP observations, supported by photos or videos from parents, greatly assists ophthalmology triage and assessment. Links & Resources: http://www.squintclinic.com/https://www.schn.health.nsw.gov.au/eye-problems-children-factsheethttps://www.aapos.org/resource-catalog/educational-resourceshttps://medicinetoday.com.au/mt/2017/april/feature-article/assessing-eye-problems-children – GPs can access this article via a free online Medicine Today subscription. 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/network If 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.

In this episode, host Dr Sean Stevens is joined by Dr Paul Effler, Senior Medical Advisor at the WA Department of Health and Adjunct Dr at the University of Western Australia. Dr Effler is an experienced public health physician with extensive expertise in vaccine safety surveillance and has been a longstanding member of the WHO Global Advisory Committee for Vaccine Safety. They explore the use of intranasal vaccines for influenza and COVID-19, which are now available in Australia. Dr Effler explains the mechanistic advantages of intranasal vaccines compared to traditional intramuscular injections, highlighting their ability to create mucosal immunity at the site where respiratory pathogens enter the body. Offering the dual possibility of preventing both clinical infection and onward transmission which is a key public health benefit. Practical aspects of administering intranasal vaccines in general practice are discussed, including ease of use, absence of sharps and associated risks, and specific technique considerations. Looking ahead, they also covered potential future developments in intranasal immunisation, including vaccines for RSV and pertussis, and the promise of platforms that do not rely on live attenuated virus. Dr Effler describes emerging models of self-administration and the possible implications for increasing vaccine uptake, while reaffirming the ongoing role of GPs in supporting safe and effective immunisation. 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/network If 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.