Workshop Synopses 2008

2009 Workshop Synopses will be available in January however please see below for 2008 Synopses:

WA
LIFESTYLE MODIFICATIONS for cancer & chronic diseases prevention & improved outcomes
Case study 1: Carol: a Ca diagnosis: lifestyle modifications – the why & the how Carol is a 49–year old woman attending your practice, who was diagnosed with breast cancer 9 years ago. She had a lumpectomy & axillary node sampling followed by radiotherapy, & has remained well until earlier this year, when liver metastases were diagnosed following a period when she felt ‘run down’. She is currently receiving docetaxel & Herceptin. She is thin, fit & following a Gerson diet, but has continued her 20–cigarettes a day habit. She comes to see you after reading information suggesting that nicotine may interfere with chemotherapy.
Case study 2: Garry: managing the metabolic syndrome – “tips & tricks” Garry is a 61–year old truck driver who comes to see you about prostate cancer screening, as his 85–year old father has been recently diagnosed with prostate cancer. You have been seeing him regularly for his high blood pressure & high cholesterol, both of which are now controlled with medication. He smokes 15 cigarettes & drinks 4–6 stubbies a day, does not exercise regularly & his BMI is 33. Sessions 3,6,12, S2B complements this workshop Cancer Council NSW, Diabetes Australia NSW

WA
TYPE 2 DIABETES – a novel clinical behaviour appraisal workshop
Participating in this workshop will enable you to compare your type 2 diabetes Mx decisions with those of your peers & experts – focusing on problematic clinical situations. It will provide insight into current type 2 diabetes Mx trends; facilitate review & discussion of recent evidence for the various type 2 diabetes therapeutic options; & utilise the complex networks of knowledge that develop with clinical experience. Sessions 4,5,9,10,13 GlaxoSmithKline

WB
KIDNEY HEALTH – CKD
1. Haematuria & urinary infection Microscopic haematuria occurs in about 2–3% of adults. The investigation & best Mx pathway is complex & under–recognised.Symptomatic UTI is the most frequent reason why adults seek help for disease of the kidneys & urinary tract. This workshop addresses the practical issues that arise in managing these conditions. Sessions 2,7,12 Dr Meg Jardine
2. Slowing the progression of CKD in gp has an important role in managing CKD to slow or even halt its progression. This workshop covers areas relevant to the early detection & Mx of Stages 1 – 3 CKD in general practice. Sessions 3,8,13 Dr Lukas Kairaitis
3. CKD – a patient experience A nephrologist will give an overview of the patient’s experience with CKD. An interactive discussion will follow, enabling GP participants to ask questions of both patient & nephrologist.Sessions 4,9,14 Dr Martin Gallagher, Dr Vicki Levidiotis Kidney Health Australia

WC
COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE
1. Necessary nutrients for GPs – beyond the basics An overview of important areas of nutrient shortfalls in the Australian population, focusing on iodine, vitamin D, calcium, folic acid & B12. The GP can expect to leave with knowledge of the missing nutrients, the patients that suffer from this, how to make the diagnosis, & how to restore normal nutritional levels. Dr Mark Donohoe Sessions 1,6,12 Blackmores
2. Age related macular degeneration Age related macular degeneration is the most common cause of blindness in the Western world. There is a great deal GPs can do to ensure their patients do not lose vision. 1/3 patients over the age of 75 will have some sign of the disease & will need advice on how to slow the rate of progress. 1/10 will suffer threatened vision loss & may need urgent referral. Early referral for Rx with the anti–VEGF, Lucentis, can prevent vision loss in over 80% of patients. The patient’s family will need advice on prevention & in the near future will need genetic testing. The lecture will outline the clinical picture, prognosis, risk factors, prevention & treatment of the disease. Dr Paul Beaumont Sessions 4,7,13 Blackmores

WC
HEARING LOSS – new technology for your patients
In this presentation the following will be addressed: different types of hearing loss; effects on different people (adults vs children); assessing hearing loss – the process & how to know when to take action; audiometric tests & when to use them; technology available now & in the future. There will be case study presentations & a demonstration of new aids in an interactive presentation. Dr Janette Thorburn Sessions 3,9,11 Australian Hearing

WD
DERMOSCOPY for gp – accurate skin cancer diagnosis
Skin cancer is increasing in incidence & prevalence in Australia. Accurate diagnosis is important, especially to avoid unnecessary excision & related procedures. Dermoscopy is an excellent tool to augment current methods of diagnosis. This program will focus on the use of the hand–held dermatoscope, being used more by GPs, using the “three point checklist”. The three point check list has been proven to be a sensitive tool for early diagnosis of pigmented skin lesions suspicious for skin cancer. Dr Damien Foong Sessions 1,2,6,7,13,14 Molescan

WD
STROKE /TIA – optimising antiplatelet therapy in 2° prevention
This workshop will highlight the prevalence of stroke within the Australian community & the cross–risk associated with atherothrombotic disease. The interactive session will include how to risk assess patients for recurrent stroke & the antiplatelet therapies available. Dr Peter Piazza Sessions 3,4,8,9,11,12 Sanofi–Aventis

WE
SUTURING 1: Basic suture techniques
A brief look at the principles of suturing & wound repair with an interactive practical session using pigs trotters which will include all the basic suturing stitches – interrupted, mattress, continuous, subcuticular & corner stitches. Sessions 2,7,12
SUTURING 2: Advanced suture techniques
An interactive practical session using pigs trotters. Includes planning for flaps & grafts, corner stitch, repair of deep & jagged lacerations, biopsy techniques &
closing large broad wounds. Suturing 2 attendees must have either attended Suturing 1 or be competent proceduralists. Sessions 3,8,15 Dynek & Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgeons

WE
ADVANCEMENT & ROTATION FLAPS for skin cancer
Principles of flap repairs – how to do simple, rotational & advancement flaps & angle sutures. How to overcome the difficulties – the angles have it. A good
opportunity to practise flaps using pigs trotters. Please note the workshop is designed for the doctor who already has some expertise in surgical techniques & has attended basic techniques in Suturing 1 workshop. Sessions 4,9,13 Dr Neil Chorley Australasian College of Skin Cancer Medicine

WF
ENT 1: THE BLOCKED EAR & DIZZINESS
Simplified demonstration will include the opportunity for all GPs to experience the value of the lumiview in cleaning the blocked ear & the practical aspects of how
to evaluate a safe & unsafe ear. Dizziness demonstration will include an opportunity to learn & practice the head shake, step & Dix Hallpike tests – three quick & simple clinical tests that assist in clarifying the causes of dizziness. The Epley manoeuvre to correct benign positional vertigo will be demonstrated & practised. Sessions 1,7,10,13
ENT 2: THE NOSE & THROAT
Evaluating a neck lump & snoring assessment in children & adults. Delegates will have an opportunity to practise a thorough neck examination to ensure no lumps are missed. Practical aspects of snoring evaluation in children & adults will also be demonstrated & practised. Sessions 3,9,14 Presented by the Royal North Shore ENT Surgical Dept

WG
PRACTICE MANAGEMENT
1. Closing the generation gap There are likely to be up to four generations in your practice & each has different characteristics, attitudes, views of authority & expectations of leaders. Being aware of the diversity of the groups allows you to tap into their perspectives & strengths & will enable you to work more effectively with the various generations for best results. Sessions 1,8
2. The time factor – can GPs run to time? One of the main criticisms of gp is long patient waiting times. This presentation will challenge the widely held belief that general practices by & large cannot run to time. Many initiatives are offered that can assist GPs to run to time & enhance the quality of care rovided. Sessions 2,14
3. Communication – the key to optimal practice performance The foundation to any successful business is effective communication. Practices must have a culture that encourages the open flow of information to grow & develop. Too often, poor communication stifles improvement. This presentation will explore the elements of effective communication that will allow your practice to be the best it can be. Sessions 5,10
4. Did I choose the right person? The quality of service provided by GPs depends profoundly on the quality of its team members. Selecting the best team is a challenge. This presentation provides you with a series of templates for success & many ideas that will enhance the effectiveness of you current selection skills. Sessions 6,13 Dr Tony Andrew & Di Adamson GPA Accreditation plus

WG
FERTILITY – techniques for GPs to maximise & preserve men’s & women’s fertility
1 in 6 Australian couples for the last 3 generations have had problems conceiving a first or subsequent child. One minor fertility problem increases a couple’s time to conception to 2 years on average, 2 will increase it to 7 years. In the past, when couples married in their 20s, they had over 15 years in which to conceive
spontaneously. However, now the average age of marriage for Australian men & women is the early 30s, so they only have a very limited time, in which to conceive. The techniques to maximise & preserve fertility in the 20s & 30s have become even more important. GPs are ideally placed to assist & educate their
patients on fertility preservation measures. Dr Anne Clark Sessions 4,9,11 Fertility First

WH
THE FUTURE OF BEST PRACTICE DIABETES CARE – working in a team
Over a million Australians are diagnosed with diabetes making it one of the most common chronic conditions managed in gp. Multidisciplinary (MD) care is a well recognised component of effective diabetes care. Two workshops will explore some of the issues involved:
1. How to use Medicare items to improve diabetes care for patients. The Federal Government has introduced a range of Medicare item numbers to support MD care in primary care settings. Representatives of the Australian Diabetes Educators Association, Dietitians Association of Australia & the Australian Association of Exercise & Sports Scientists will provide an overview of the services GPs can expect from each discipline, relevant Medicare items numbers, how to access Credentialled Diabetes Educators, Accredited Practising Dietitians & Accredited Exercise Physiologists & engage them to create an effective diabetes care team for your patients. Sessions 4,7,11,13
2. Diabetes care – ancillary services & when to refer? People with diabetes have a whole range of ancillary needs – for dietitians, diabetes educators & exercise physiologists. This workshop will look at these clinical needs – what the GP can do & when to refer. Sessions 1,5,6,12,14 Gil Cremer Australian Diabetes Educators Association

WI
INFECTED & CHRONIC WOUND MANAGEMENT
Advancements in wound management have identified that wounds that are not healing may be the result of bacterial load. The use of topical antimicrobials is redefining how chronic wounds are treated. This workshop explores the use of topical antimicrobials to efficiently & effectively treat chronic wounds. Sessions 1,6,13 Smith & Nephew

WI
BANDAGES, STOCKINGS & DRESSINGS for venous disease
Compression is required for patients with symptomatic venous disease, leg oedema or venous complications. Compression required depends on the severity of venous hypertension, and needs to control pressures in the standing ambulatory position. Compliant & non–compliant systems are indicated in different conditions & these & bandaging techniques will be demonstrated. Prof Ken Myers, Dr Stefania Roberts, Dr David Jenkins, Dr Adrian Lim Sessions 3,9,14 Australasian College of Phlebology

WI
DERMATOLOGY - practical tips in dermatology - panel
"Doc!" My SKIN ITCHES!! & the spots are back...Help Me!!" The tube prescribed has not been used. The patient has endeavoured to self-medicate with bleach & toothpaste...Share your dermatology stories with those who can empathise - like the time when honey, salicylic acid & Zinc mixed with a steroid finally did the trick? Be able to unfold the secrets of the quintessential sorbolene cream concoction? What mystical ingredient have you added to evict that perennial ulcer from its tenancy? A dermatologist & a panel will discuss sucess stories in dermatology, covering 4 areas:
1) Wound Mx new Rxs, latest products 2)Coverage of body parts: when is 15g enough? A simple coverage quide for any once daily therapy 3) Combination therapies: mix & match & when combos work for you 4) Counselling steroid-phobic patients: Gps' best tips & tricks for reducing the Arnold Schwarzeneger phobia. Sessions 4,7,11 Dr Jim Muir Scheruing Plough

WJ
MINDFULNESS IN ADOLESCENCE
Mindfulness techniques are a fusion of ancient Eastern meditation skills blended with modern cognitive behavioural strategies. The practice of mindfulness has been proven in clinical trials to be very valuable for the Mx of stress, anxiety & depression. All adolescents today face unavoidable stressors as they mature. This workshop demonstrates easy mindfulness strategies for young people that are of great immediate benefit as well as being a set of ongoing life skills. Sessions 3,10,12 Dr Margie Gottleib Presented by Australian College of Psychological Medicine

WJ
NPS – TYPE 2 DIABETES – negotiating early initiation of insulin
Current international guidelines advocate more aggressive treatment of type 2 diabetes, necessitating the earlier introduction of insulin. This workshop explores some of the critical issues in drug therapy in type 2 diabetic patients, for the proactive Mx of glycaemia. This includes clarification of what is known of the benefits & harms with glitazone use. Increasingly GPs will be required to take a more active role in the introduction & ongoing Mx of insulin therapy. The workshop aims to equip GPs with the confidence, willingness & skills to initiate insulin, as well as how to negotiate & overcome patient barriers to use. Sessions 4,5,6,7,8 This activity is recognised by the Quality Prescribing Initiative of the Practice Incentives Program.Jeff Elliot National Prescribing Service

WJ
URINARY INCONTINENCE – a practical guide
Urinary incontinence is a major growing health issue, with significant social & financial impacts. Diagnosing & managing incontinence in clinical practice can be complex. Given the recent advances, this workshop will provide practical guidance on how to accurately diagnose & manage this growing problem. Sessions 2,9,13
Dr Alastair Morris Royal North Shore Hospital, Hospira

WK
DEMENTIA including Alzheimers
Dementia is a devastating disease that can destroy the lives of family members as well as patients. For GPs, the challenges of early detection, differential diagnosis & ongoing management are significant. Here we will look at current practice in the identification & Mx of patients at various stages of the disease. Sessions 3,7,12 Pfizer

WK
INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE
1. Ascorbate & cancer Ascorbic acid was isolated in 1928 & shown to be the anti–scorbutic factor present in lime & lemon juices. It is an essential co– enzyme required for a number of hydroxylation reactions. The efficacy of vitamin C in the Rx of cancer has been explored with controversial outcomes. We will further explore the pharmacokinetic properties of ascorbate in cancer Rx. Sessions 4,11
2.The role of zinc in health & disease Zinc is a divalent cation exhibiting important roles in health & disease as evidenced by the role of Zn in the functional capacity of more than 200 metallic enzymes. It is also required to maintain the structure of nucleic acid protein, cell membrane & exerts a vital role in various physiological functions such as cell growth, division, maturation & reproduction, dark adaptation, night vision, wound healing, host immunity, taste acuity, maintenance of pregnancy, foetal growth etc. Hence the importance of Zn, cannot be over–emphasised. Knowledge of the current status of Zn therapeutics as well as its adverse effects becomes mandatory for its rationalised application. Sessions 5,8
3. Alternative Mx of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) IBS causes uncomfortable & painful symptoms like cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, & diarrhoea. In the US, this condition affects between 10% & 30% of the population. Traditional treatment for IBS usually involves medication, which is effective, but often has undesirable side–effects. However, according to the National Institute of Health there are several complementary & alternative therapies that may be very effective in treating IBS. Sessions 6,13
4. Nutraceuticals & the skin The skin is the largest, heaviest organ in the body comprising 16% of total body weight. Topical cosmeceutical products are widely promoted to improve skin health & minimize or reverse the effects of skin ageing. This lecture will focus on the hope & hype that is the use of nutraceuticals to delay the effects of ageing and/or repair the skin. A/Prof Luis Vitetta & Prof Robert Allen Sessions 10,14 BioCeuticals & Unit of Health Integration, School of Medicine, University of Queensland

WL
METABOLIC TRIAD & exercise
Exercise is often prescribed as a treatment strategy for obesity, diabetes or the OA patient. A physiotherapist & exercise scientist will take a comprehensive look at the research behind the benefits of exercise, the need for recovery between exercise sessions & the associated vascular issues (including the benefits of good footwear) related to ageing & peripheral vascular disease associated with your patient’s condition. Paul Hedger & Jason McLaren Sessions 3,6,12 Healthy Pond

WL
MEDICO–LEGAL
1. The expert witness All practitioners are medical ‘experts’ in the eyes of the law. This session covers the role & responsibilities of the medical expert, whether giving an opinion as a treating practitioner or as an independent expert. Some of the questions covered are as follows: What makes a good medico–legal report? What is a subpoena & how should I respond? What are the court procedures & etiquette? What expenses am I entitled to? What is the role of an expert witness? Sessions 2,8
2. E–Medicine Information Technology (IT) has the potential to enhance both the quality & safety of health care. In Australia, IT has become the cornerstone of government strategies to reduce the incidence of medical error. However, embracing IT is complex & costly & challenges many fundamental paradigms of healthcare delivery. It has risks as well as benefits. This session examines the medico–legal risks IT may bring, & strategies to minimise those risks. Sessions 4,13
3. Emerging Risk The medico legal climate changes for GPs every year & to minimise exposure to risk, doctors need to be aware of what is happening in the health industryto cause patients to make claims against them. New risks start to emerge as technology & practices change & this session will consider some of these emerging trends. Sessions 9,14 Dr Megan Keany Avant

WM
PRACTICAL OPHTHALMOLOGY
Ophthalmology 1: Update on common ocular problems & emergencies & their practical management including appropriate examination (incl. use of fluorescein strips). Topics will include the red eye, F.B., ocular trauma, lid lesions, acute glaucoma & misdiagnosed irritable eyes. Sessions 4,6,7,12 Ophthalmology 2: Retinopathy – a practical approach to retinopathy – diabetic, hypertensive, age–related macular degeneration. Includes the use of the direct ophthalmoscope. Sessions 5,8,13,14 Alcon & RANZCO

WN
MEDICAL DIRECTOR – teaching skills
PracSoft made easy Sessions 3,7
Introduction to letter writer/scanning documents Session 2
Advanced letter writer/scanning documents Session 6
Progress notes Sessions 8,11
Recalls & reminders Session 4
Pathology Mx Session 12
Care Plans Sessions 5,9
MD 3 features Session 13
MD quiz – 20 frequently asked Q&As to all those things that may have eluded you
when working with MD Sessions 10,14 Margaret Windsor and Katarina Otto Health Communications Network

WO
WOMEN’S HEALTH
1. The endocrinology of contraception Contraception involves the use of different hormone analogues. The common combined oral contraceptive includes a potent form of estrogen, ethanylestrodiol in association with one of a range of progesterones. Preventing conception through a direct effect on the hypothalamus & pituitary. The consequence of this is that endogenous ovarian steroid synthesis is suppressed but early follicle growth continues. During the pill free interval the FSH concentration rises but insufficiently to stimulate complete follicle growth & maturation. The hormonal background to all of this will be discussed. An update on other contraceptive methods including surgery, coils & rings will be provided. Sessions 1,6,12
2. Managing miscarriage & early bleeding This workshop will define miscarriage, outline the incidence, causes & investigations in gp; plus management of a patient with recurrent miscarriage & additional investigations this demands, including emotional support. Sessions 2,7,13
3. Investigation of menstrual problems Women present in gp with a range of common gynaecological problems. An update on the investigation & management of these including: irregular menstrual cycles, heavy & painful periods, premenstrual tension, acne, and hirsuitism will be covered. Sessions 3,8,14 Dr Graeme Hughes, Dr Andrew Kan , Dr Peter Leung IVFAustralia

WP
CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION – according to ARC guidelines
CPR is a course designed to provide participants with the knowledge & skills required to perform resuscitation, if required, until medical aid arrives. The course will cover the following: communication & its vital role in first aid, including calling for emergency assistance; duty of care; infection control; Mx of a scene where first aid is required including casualty assessment; Mx of choking; CPR; the Chain of Survival; & a brief introduction to defibrillation. Participants will receive a Statement of Attainment valid for 1 year. Sessions 1–2,4–7,9–12,14–15 David Czerkies and Lisa Martin St John Ambulance

WQ
BINGE DRINKING – it’s only once a week, what’s the problem?
Young people are drinking at levels that place them at markedly greater risk of acute harm than any other group in the community. Death rates from accidents are higher in the under 25 year old age group, than any other age group. This session will look at binge drinking in the young adult, its incidence, how & why it starts, the dangers & how to address the problem. It will deal with the medical complications of early alcohol use, & provide an understanding of the mechanisms to improve management. Dr Bronwyn Milne, Dr Gilbert Whitton, Dr Craig Sadler Sessions 1,8,12 NSW Dept of Health

WQ
THE NEUROSCIENCE OF ADDICTION – young people, the chilling facts about Ecstasy & Ice, acute intoxication & Rx
The human brain undergoes numerous neurobiological changes during adolescence, & the latest research has made it clear that addiction is influenced by & directly induce altered brain function. This session will outline acute presentations including acute intoxication in the GP setting & how to manage. It will also provide information on the neuroscience of addiction as it relates to young people, party drugs & psychostimulants, the rates of use, health impacts & approaches to Rx. It will use a case study of the concerned parent visiting the GP seeking help, & look at how to engage with the young person & follow the Mx of the patient through various stages of treatment. Dr Mark Montebello, Dr Gilbert Whitton, Dr Hester Wilson Sessions 3,9,14 NSW Dept of Health

WR
HIP OR KNEE REPLACEMENT surgery – managing your joint replacement patients
An overview of hip or knee replacement surgery including post–operative care, hip or knee assessment techniques & examination tests. A look at the new technologies in hip or knee replacement. Treatment options (using computer animations to demonstrate surgery) with examples of all the relevant parts to hand around & demonstrate;importance of adequately educating joint replacement patients; frequently asked questions from patients – longevity, revision, visiting the dentist & antibiotics etc; when to refer to an orthopaedic surgeon; results & post–operative care. Dr Bill Walter Session 3 (Hip), Dr Rob Sew Hoy Session 5 (Knee), Dr Peter Walker Session 7 (Hip), Dr Arash Nabavi Session 11 (Knee) Stryker

WR
SOFT TISSUE INJECTIONS
Soft tissue injections should be part of every GP’s clincal practice. Common conditions that fall under the scope of gp will be discussed including:
1. Upper limb: shoulder impingement – rotator cuff tears, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, golfers elbow & olecranon bursitis. This hands–on session will cover the indications & injection techniques for the relief of musculoskeletal pain & inflammation incl. subacromial bursa, acromio–clavicular joint, elbow joint, common extensor tendon & common flexor tendon. Dr Doron Sher Sessions 2,10,14
2. Lower limb: knee aspiration including acute conditions (haemarthrosis & prepatellar bursitis); steroid injections in arthritis, Bakers cysts & Trochanteric bursitis. A hands–on workshop using joint models for everyone to practise. At the end of this workshop attendees should be more confident in injecting all of the above. Dr Peter Walker Sessions 4,9,12 Surgical Synergies

WT
PATIENTS IN PAIN: assessing & managing the spectrum of pain
This ALM looks at pain across the spectrum, from acute to chronic & nociceptive to neuropathic. It takes a practical approach, focusing on assessing & managing patients. The 3 modules include interactive case studies & discussions highlighting issues you encounter every day in your practice. To qualify for an ALM, you must attend all 3 topics, (2 sessions each) It is preferable to attend the sessions on Back, neck & shoulder pain & Painful diabetic neuropathy before attending Chronic pain.
1. Back, neck & shoulder pain Back pain is one of the most common, & frequently frustrating, conditions seen by GPs. This module examines back, neck & shoulder pain,focusing on patient assessment – incl. identification of ‘yellow flags’ (factors that might lead to development of chronic pain) & ‘red flags’ (requiring follow–up of underlying pathology) – & Mx of nociceptive & neuropathic components of pain. Dr David Gorman Sessions 1&2 or 8&9
2. Painful diabetic neuropathy For people with painful diabetic neuropathy, pain can be the most debilitating aspect of their diabetes. This module highlights the impact of painful diabetic neuropathy & explores practical techniques for assessing patients. Therapeutic options for neuropathic pain are discussed, & a Rx algorithm examined. Dr Roger Chen Sessions 4&5 or 11&12
3. Chronic pain Patients in pain can be difficult to manage. Modern medicine cannot always provide a definitive diagnosis, & sometimes patients have to learn to live with a degree of pain. This module looks at the biopsychosocial model of chronic pain, then focuses on managing patient expectations & self–help options as well as pharmacotherapy for chronic pain. Dr Guy Bashford Sessions 6&7 or 13&14 Pfizer

WU
ADOLESCENT MOOD DISORDERS
Adolescence is a time of emotional turmoil, making recognition & Mx of mood disorders in this age group challenging. This 3 hour workshop will address recognition, assessment & diagnosis, & introduce appropriate treatment strategies for GPs dealing with adolescents suffering from mood disorders. (3 hour workshop divided into 2 x 1 1/2hr sessions – you must attend 2 sessions on the one day) Sessions 4&5 or 6&7 or 11&12 Dr Anne Camac Dr Vered Gordon, Dr Antony Milch Black Dog Institute