2009 Seminar Synopses will be available in January however please see below for 2008 Synopses:
S1A
OSTEOPOROSIS – the total osteoporosis Rx & prevention area
Normalise vit D & calcium (in gp & nursing homes); try to prevent any further falls (this may include installing hand rails etc), training GPs to identify patients at highest risk (family history, smoking, female, aged etc); training on any updates for Rx management (Medicare now subsidise BMD test for patients > 70. Economically
for the Government it’s best to firstly find all those patients at greatest risk rather than test everybody.) If treatment is needed, what are the options for GPs – antiresorptives & the dual acting bone agent. (What is the ideal?). Discussion of the new RACGP guidelines for the identification, Mx & Rx of osteoporosis. Dr Stephen Thronley Servier
S1B
NEUROLOGY update – the latest on Parkinsons disease & Parkinsonian syndromes
This seminar will assist you in identifying Parkinsons disease & help you differentiate between it & Parkinsonian–like syndromes such as Drug induced Parkinsons, Progressive supranuclear palsy, Diffuse Lewy body disease & Multi–system degenerative disease. A/Prof Paul Spira
S1C
SPORT PERFORMANCE ENHANCEMENT – the GP’s role
A physiotherapist, podiatrist & exercise scientist will take a comprehensive look at the latest research on prevention, Rx & Mx of injuries. A focus on the GP’s role &
provide you with treatment strategies that you can apply in your clinical practice. We will also discuss the current research/Mx/prevention related to Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) & its effects on sports performance. Michael Kinchington, Paul Hedger, Jason McLaren Healthy Pond
S2A
ENT: THE BLOCKED NOSE – contemporary evaluation & management of rhinosinusitis
This seminar will examine 4 areas: 1. The blocked nose in children & adults – common causes; 2. Radiology of the nose – anatomy & pathology of the blocked nose; 3. Contemporary medical Mx of rhinosinusitis; 4. Current surgical Mx for chronic rhinosinusitis. Dr Nirmal Patel Schering Plough
S2B
LIFESTYLE modifications for cancer & chronic disease prevention & improved outcomes
A panel discussion presenting strategies for improving disease prevention & Mx as they apply in the primary care setting. Chronic diseases are responsible for approximately 70% of the total disease burden in Australia, where approximately 50% of adults live with a chronic condition. Many are preventable & share common risk factors, for which prevention & the design of population–based & high risk approaches for disease prevention are possible. Smoking, nutritional factors & physical inactivity are common determinants to most of these diseases & their integrated control would lead to improved outcomes. Primary care plays a key role in disease prevention & Mx, but traditionally these diseases have been managed individually, rather than with an integrated approach. WA sessions 3,6,12 complement this seminar. Dr Tim Gill, Dr Roger Chen Dr Colin Mendelsohn, Dr Monica Robotin Cancer Council NSW
S2C
ADOLESCENT HEALTH
A joint presentation with an Adolescent Physician/Paediatrician & a health education specialist. Health & lifestyle indicators among Australian children & adolescents; issues around the developmental changes of adolescence; the impact of chronic illness; precursors of adult disease in adolescence, risky behaviours, weight, shape, self–esteem, body image & eating disorders. How to best approach & manage this difficult period of development. Dr Sue Towns & Dr Jennifer O’Dea
S3A
ALCOHOLISM – medical & psychological effects & Mx
Alcohol problems are common in our community with multiple physical, psychiatric & social consequences. This seminar will outline effective drug treatments for alcohol dependence, how & when to use, the effective drug treatments & the prospect of potential new novel treatments. It will also make reference to the psychological & social interventions that have been shown to improve outcomes. Dr Stephen Jurd Bristol Myers Squibb
S3B
GUT FLORA & importance in maintenance of health
Medical researchers & practitioners world wide are focusing on the importance of gut flora, also known as healthy intestinal bacteria, microflora, friendly bacteria, active cultures, & flora in the human diet. As non–toxic, live bacteria are being recognised for the crucial role they play in improving digestive health & studied for their interconnectivity to every single function in the human body, probiotics are reshaping the way medical science views health. A/Prof Luis Vitetta BioCeuticals & Unit of Health Integration, School of Medicine, University of Queensland
S3C
DIABETES: treating to target today – strategies to improve the Mx of type
2 diabetes in Australia
This seminar will overview current diabetes Mx in Australia; discuss the importance of treating to target & strategies to improve diabetes outcomes; & review the role of early combination therapy & the glycaemic efficacy of glitazones. GlaxoSmithKline
S4A
BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA (BPH)
This seminar provides an overview of the Mx of men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTs) indicative of BPH & will help GPs understand their role in the diagnosis & management of uncomplicated LUTs/BPH.Dr Dinesh Patel CSL Biotherapies
S4B
THE SLEEPY PATIENT – prevalence, implications, diagnosis & Mx
In today’s society, many people for differing reasons are fitting more into each day with a resultant sleep deprivation. This can have a huge impact on the individuals involved & further impact on society. This seminar discusses the issues involved & impact of sleep deprivation, plus your role in diagnosing & the Mx tools utilised on these patients. A/Prof Naomi Rogers and Dr Michael Dodd CSL Biotherapies
S4C
CARDIO & VASCULAR RISK REDUCTION – a 2008 update
This seminar will focus on the practical Mx of patients with a high cardio & vascular risk. It will examine best practice in hypertensive & cardiovascular Mx, reviewing the latest evidence for improving patient outcomes. Dr Greg Conner Boehringer–Ingelheim
S5A
POSTMENOPAUSAL HRT & CV risk assessment update
Subsequent to WHI there has been a decline in the usage of HRT. Much of the decline has been due to confusion in relation to its safety. This seminar will focus
on the safety & efficacy issues of HRT, particularly the issues related to cardiovascular risk. What to use, when not to use, who to use on & when to stop. Prof Michael Chapman Wyeth
S5B
ACUTE WOUND/TRAUMA/BURNS Mx
This presentation will look at the clinical Mx of trauma/burns situations in the metro & rural settings. It will cover the current & emerging techniques of wound care with details in specific areas, e.g. neuro & barotrauma. There will be discussion on the role of the GP in the service of trauma – triage & retrieval. Dr Elizabeth Livingstone
S5C
GLYCAEMIC INDEX, FATS & NUTRITION
Optimal dietary prescription, based on the principles of the glycaemic index and/or specific fat ratios has dominated dietary literature over the past ten years. This
presentation will outline the key scientific findings relating to diet, fat type & Glycaemic Index & outline ways in which the general principles of each style of eating can be utilised with patients in the gp setting. Susie Burrell
S6A
KNEE INJURIES – common conditions & latest Mx technologies
Common conditions such as meniscal tears, articular cartilage & ligamentous injuries, presentation & how to diagnose, which tests to order. The latest
technologies including cartilage transplants & mini–resurfacing techniques; when to refer to physio, sports physician or a specialist; & some of the latest technologies
available in treatment of such conditions. WR Session 11 complements this seminar Dr Peter Walker Surgical Synergies
S6B
ANTIBIOMICROBIALS with focus on antifungals – use & abuse in 2008
This seminar will provide an update on the latest in antifungal therapy – a common therapeutic issue in GP land. A look at various disease entities; which, when & what to use; problems with resistance, & the latest on how to manage some of the more difficult problems. Prof Tania Sorrell
S6C
VARICOSE VEINS: what’s new in the treatment of varicose veins?
Recent practice has seen a marked swing away from conventional surgical stripping to non–invasive endovenous techniques. Fine cosmetic veins are treated by sclerotherapy; larger veins are treated by ultrasound–guided sclerotherapy using foamed sclerosants; large diameter saphenous veins are now best treated
by endovenous laser ablation. Follow–up using ultrasound surveillance confirms that each technique provides successful control and results at least as good as surgery. Prof Kenneth Myers, Dr Stefania Roberts, Dr David Jenkins Australian College of Phlebology
S7A
DIFFICULT PATIENTS & difficult consultations – role play
The aggressive patient, the patient with multiple problems, the patient with unreasonable requests either for services or scripts: what’s allowed, how to manage the consult, can you refuse to see them? An interactive seminar with role play – a must for GPs. Avant
S7B
OBESITY: Where does bariatric surgery fit?
In Australia, an estimated 2.5 million adults were obese in 2004–05. If rates continue to soar there could be as many as 7.2 million obese Australians by 2025. This seminar will look at the co–morbidities associated with obesity, who is suitable for bariatric surgery, long term weight loss results & the importance of a multidisciplinary bariatric team. Included will be an overview of statistics; a review of “real” patient case studies & results; & a video of a gastric band adjustment or surgery. You will listen to a patient & his experience. Dr Roy Brancatisano Johnson & Johnson
S7C
IN PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS – positive depression management
This presentation will consider the definition of “happiness”, its Mx, its underlying neurological basis & relationship to economic variables before focusing on varying strategies (political, social, therapeutic) that are designed to increase happiness levels. This is of key clinical relevance in response to the current apparent ‘epidemic’ of depression, including among adolescents. Prof Gordon Parker Black Dog Institute
S8A
PROSTATE CANCER Mx & issues – an interactive session
There are now a number of controversial issues in the diagnosis & Mx of prostate cancer. This seminar will have unique, interactive resource material using patient resources, to help patients make decisions about Mx options as well as PSA decisions. Booklets & DVDs will be distributed for your education & as a resource for patients. In order to ensure a fully interactive session, keypads will be used. The aim of the session is to ensure that you are fully informed about diagnosis & Rx options & that patients can benefit from the resource materials distributed at the seminar. A/Prof Phillip Stricker Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia
S8B
COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE – a practical review of managing common conditions
This seminar will provide an evidence–based review on alternative ways to treat common conditions such as arthritis, depression, skin disorders, UTIs & infertility
with complementary medicines. It will provide a full review of the evidence including relevant drug interactions & will equip you with information to prescribe these medicines. Leading medical professional Professor Stephen Myers from Southern Cross University, with experience in both orthodox & complementary medicine, will provide a balanced view to expand your options in everyday practice. Prof Stephen Myers Blackmores
S8C
MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS Mx – update
This seminar will provide information about the pathology & diagnosis of MS; identify & describe key symptoms, health & lifestyle Mx issues; & discuss current approaches to Rx, long term Mx & coordinated care. A patient with MS will present a personal & inspiring perspective on the challenges of living with MS. Dr Michael Barnett Bayer/Schering
S9A
LIPID DISORDERS update – beyond LDL
The seminar will discuss the importance of managing the complete lipid profile, not just treating high LDL. It will cover the benefits of statins in reducing LDL & reducing cardiovascular risk & will highlight the concept of residual risk despite statin therapy. It will examine the risk associated with elevated triglycerides & how fibrates
reduce CV risk in patients with elevated triglycerides. Combination therapy will be discussed in the context of mixed dyslipidaemia, type 2 diabetes. Professor David Sullivan Solvay
S9B
REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGY – the technological revolution
This seminar will cover the latest in assisted reproductive technology from the early beginnings to today’s advanced technology; how to investigate a couple having trouble conceiving; range of assisted reproductive technologies available & success rates including egg freezing, improvements in the understanding of sperm biology (sperm DNA fragmentation), pre–implantation genetic diagnosis & embryonic stem cell research. A/Prof Peter Illingworth IVFAustralia
S9C
DIABETIC EYE DISEASE
This seminar will examine the risk of DED in patients with diabetes. It will include pathophysiology & diagnosis of DED & the Mx of DED, such as laser eye treatment & drug therapy. Professor Paul Mitchell Solvay
S10A
HYPERTENSION – long term Mx & pitfalls
This seminar will look at problems associated with hypertension Mx, the new guidelines set out by NHF, & associated pitfalls, according to the latest 2008 Australian guidelines. Solvay
S10B
TESTOSTERONE – unravelling its use in gp
This seminar will address how the GP can engage the male patient to discuss sensitive reproductive health issues, including taking a sexual history &
undertaking a male physical examination. The management of androgen deficiency & the relationship with chronic disease in the middle–aged & older male will be discussed. Prof Robert McLachlan Presented by Andrology Australia & sponsored by Bayer Schering
S10C
PERSISTENT COUGH – differential diagnosis. Is it pertussis?
The most common vaccine preventable disease is pertussis, with 90% of cases now in adults & often missed in gp. The incidence is likely to be much higher than the 11,000 reported last year as 95% of cases go undiagnosed or are mistaken for persistent cough. Pertussis is highly infectious, with over half of cases in infants (which account for 80% of hospitalisations) being transmitted by their parents. Both natural & disease induced immunity wane over time, so close contacts of newborns need a pertussis booster to reduce the risk of passing it on (recommended by NHMRC). Dr Diana Hart Sanofi–Pasteur
S11A
CHILD & ADOLESCENT OBESITY
Childhood obesity is a significant & increasing problem in Australia. Despite this, there is little evidence available that identifies the ideal dietary & nutrient prescription for effective weight Mx in children. This presentation draws on the experience of a clinician working in a tertiary referral setting with overweight & obese children & the current literature, to provide attendees with a dietary framework that can be implemented with overweight children in a gp setting. Susie Burrell Abbott
S11B
POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME: is there any role for Metformin?
Polycystic ovaries are present in 20% of the general female population. PCOS may cause irregular periods, hirsutism, infertility & obesity in 25% of these women. This presentation reviews clinical investigations for GPs, Mx & Rx options including new & current thinking on Metformin, depending on a woman’s age & stage of life. Dr Michael Costello IVF Australia
S11C
COX–2s: comparative safety & efficacy vs traditional NSAIDs
Cox–2 inhibitors have overwhelmingly demonstrated equivalent analgesic & anti–inflammatory efficacy to traditional NSAIDs, such as popular OTC brands diclofenac & ibuprofen, but with a reduced risk of upper GI complications, such as perforations, ulcers & bleeds; on the other hand, comparative cardiovascular & hepatic safety have generally not fallen along class lines. Pfizer
S12A
DOCTORS’ HEALTH – how to maintain it for better outcomes – Balint groups
Most GPs suffer silently. GP can be very stressful. Burnout may be just around the corner. Dr Raymond Seidler will illustrate ways to enrich & prolong your medical career. He will explore Balint Group work, which addresses the doctor/ patient relationship, by interviewing Balinteers. Dr Raymond Seidler, Alexa Gilbert–Obrart, Dr Jan Orman
S12B
PATHOLOGY update – understanding the use of immunological tests
Measurement of antibodies can be helpful in confirming the diagnosis of autoimmune diseases, immunodeficiencies, allergies & some malignancies of the immune system. This presentation will review the use of tests in each of these categories with emphasis on recently introduced tests such as anti–CCP antibodies in the diagnosis of arthritis, anti–tissue transglutaminase antibodies for Coeliac Disease, serum free light chains for myeloma & allergen–specific IgE tests in the investigation of allergic conditions. Dr Stephen Adelstein
S12C
HIV CLINICAL Mx – update, including drug therapy
HIV natural history & Mx in primary care; presentation & case study covering diagnosis in the primary care setting; natural history of HIV; monitoring the HIV positive patient; antiretroviral therapy for HIV; Rx of HIV complications, & brief overview of post exposure prophylaxis. The seminar will increase your ability to provide supportive & effective shared care of HIV patients. Dr Claudia Whyte Australasian Society for HIV Medicine
S13A
PAINFUL SHOULDER
Shoulder pain is common and can be created by a variety of different causes which tend to change as the patient ages. In the younger patient impingement & instability are the most common diagnoses. With age, rotator cuff tears & a frozen shoulder become more likely but arthritis & non–shoulder sources of
pain such as the cervical spine should always be considered. This seminar will lead you through history taking & clinical examination to be able to confidently
diagnose various shoulder conditions. Dr Doron Sher Pfizer
S13B
CARDIAC IMAGING update – the emerging role of CT coronary angiography
The essentials of what the GP needs to know. Who? How? When? This exciting technology promises improved patient outcomes & will change the way we practise. Dr Daniel Friedman Dr Damien Foong
S13C
UPPER GUT DISORDERS: GORD, NSAIDs & Helicobacter: an evidence–based update
This seminar will cover recent developments & current guidelines for the management of upper gut disorders. Dr Peter Katelaris AstraZeneca
S14A
DERMATOLOGY update: eczema & what’s new in Rx of solar keratosis?
Solar keratosis (SK) is the most common form of pre–cancerous skin lesion & affects approximately 40–60% of the Australian Caucasian population over 40 years of age. There are a number of Rx options available for SK, both physical & topical treatments. This seminar will look at those treatments & the most recent new topical gel which can be used to treat SK. Another common skin condition is eczema, affecting almost 1 in 5 Australians. It can appear at any age, particularly in paediatrics, & is often difficult to diagnose & treat. This seminar will look at the diagnosis for SK & eczema & explore new frontiers in Rx & Mx options for both. Dr Kurt Bebauer CSL Biotherapies
S14B
FOOD ALLERGY & ANAPHYLAXIS
There has been an increased prevalence of food allergy & a substantial increase in hospital admissions for food anaphylaxis over the last 10–15 years. This seminar will look at food allergies generally – pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, natural history & Mx; the recent emergence of new food allergens; & clinical issues relating to anaphylaxis. It will also provide a national perspective of policies relating to prevention, recognition & Mx of anaphylaxis in schools & childcare centres. Dr Robert Loblay
Supported by the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology
S14C
NON–ALCOHOLIC FATTY LIVER DISEASE
Now the commonest cause of chronic liver injury in the western world, non–alcoholic fatty liver disease affects up to 25% of the population with a small but significant % of this group progressing to cirrhosis & liver cell cancer. The pathogenesis of the disorder is understood to be linked to insulin resistance & perhaps to altered leptin & other humoral metabolism. The condition is so common that all GPs need to be aware of its prevalence & to have a Mx strategy in place to direct screening & Mx of identified cases. Treatment options include increased exercise to improve insulin sensitivity & the use of medications to modify lipid metabolism, oxidative stress & inflammation. Non–alcoholic fatty liver disease is a major contributor to the severity of other liver diseases such as hepatitis B & C & haemochromatosis. Prof Robert Batey
S15A
TRAVEL MEDICINE update– vaccinations, immunisations – visiting friends & relatives & returning home
Approximately half a million travellers each year travel to high risk areas to visit friends & relatives. This is a group which has for a long time been considered at increased risk of travel related illnesses. This seminar will look at the specific considerations to assist in improving outcomes for this group of travellers. Dr Conrad Moreira Sanofi Pasteur
S15B
ASTHMA & ALLERGY: what’s the connection?
There is a strong association between asthma & allergy. Allergic individuals are over 3 times more likely to develop asthma while 60–80% of asthma patients have co–existing allergic rhinitis or sinusitis. This seminar will discuss differential diagnosis & practical strategies for Mx of concurrent asthma & allergy. A/Prof Connie Katelaris & A/Prof Ian Charlton National Asthma Council with support form Schering Plough
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