In this episode of The Good GP, host Dr Krystyna de Lange discusses Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) with Dr Alireza Ahmadvand, a GP, and Professor Gerald Holtmann, a consultant gastroenterologist and director of the gastroenterology and hepatology department at the PA Hospital. This episode is part one of a two-part series exploring IBS from a multidisciplinary approach.

Dr Ahmadvand discusses the differential diagnoses for IBS symptoms in primary care. This includes chronic infections, inflammatory bowel diseases, medication-induced diarrhea, colorectal cancer, and more. They evaluate red flags and initial investigations to distinguish between organic and functional gastrointestinal issues.

Professor Holtmann highlights the importance of understanding patient expectations and provides clarity on diagnosing disorders of gut-brain interaction. He highlights the role of thorough communication and the need to address both the physical symptoms and psychological impact on the patient.

They also delve into the emerging role of the gut microbiome in disorders of gut-brain interaction. Professor Holtmann discusses the relevance of the microbiome composition and the challenges involved in using stool microbiome reports for diagnostic purposes. He elaborates on the potential of targeting the microbiome to improve IBS symptoms through specific treatments, including antibiotics and probiotics.

They conclude with an exploration of pharmacological interventions. Professor Holtmann shares insights on using low-dose tricyclic antidepressants, herbal medicines, and probiotics for IBS management, emphasising the need for balanced treatment strategies that weigh risk and benefit carefully.

In this episode of This Could Save Your Life podcast, hosts Dr Catherine Bourke and Dr Anna Mullins discuss a critical and often overlooked aspect of health: Bone Health. They begin with clarifying the terms osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, which are often confused by patients. 

Dr Bourke and Dr Mullins present statistics highlighting the grave consequences of untreated osteoporosis, reinforcing the urgent need for awareness and early diagnosis. While also outline the risk factors, including age, family history, hormonal imbalances, vitamin D deficiency, and low body weight.

Emphasising the importance of prevention through nutrition, particularly calcium intake, lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption, and specific exercises like resistance and balance training. Practical advice is provided to help patients incorporate these into their daily routines. They also discuss the bone mineral density test (DEXA scan), which is crucial for diagnosing osteoporosis and monitoring bone health over time.

They then discussed treatment, including medications and multi-disciplinary care involving GPs, dietitians, and exercise physiologists. The long-term impact of fractures on independence and quality of life is stressed, making this a valuable resource for GPs aiming to improve patient outcomes in bone health.

Links & Resources:

• Healthy Bones Australia: https://healthybonesaustralia.org.au

This Could Save Your Life Podcast is under The Good GP podcast and 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

In this episode of The Good GP Podcast, host Dr Krystyna de Lange is joined by Dr Emily Gordon to discuss the topic of sepsis within the primary care setting. Dr Gordon, a respected general practitioner and previous recipient of the RACGP Queensland GP of the Year award, shares her expertise to help GPs better identify and manage this life-threatening condition.

From definition and causes of sepsis, highlighting its potential to come from infections in common areas such as the lungs, skin, urinary tract, or gastrointestinal tract. Dr Gordon emphasises the importance of early detection through recognising both red and amber flag symptoms, which could suggest the onset of sepsis.

Dr Gordon provides guidance tailored for GPs on how to respond effectively if sepsis is suspected. They explore the key risk factors and vulnerable patient populations who may be at heightened risk for sepsis.

Dr Gordon introduces practical resources including a new sepsis screening tool for adults, designed to aid primary healthcare providers in accurately identifying sepsis early and ensuring prompt and appropriate management. This tool, currently available in the pilot project phase in Queensland, underscores the significance of education and vigilance in improving patient outcomes.

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 of The Good GP, host Dr Sean Stevens discusses environmentally sustainable respiratory care with Dr Brett Montgomery, a GP and Senior Lecturer with expertise in environmental medicine, and Clinical Professor John Blakey, Head of the Department of Respiratory Medicine at St. Charles Gardener Hospital.

Dr Montgomery outlined the key environmental challenges associated with respiratory care, particularly the carbon footprint of Australia's health system. Emphasising the impact of pharmaceuticals, particularly the global warming potential of hydrofluorocarbons in traditional metered dose inhalers. He mentions the importance of accurate diagnosis and alternative treatment options, including dry powder inhalers or soft mist inhalers to reduce environmental impact.

Clinical Professor John Blakey shares his perspective on aligning environmental concerns with optimising respiratory care. Stressing the importance of accurate diagnosis to avoid unnecessary treatments and outlines how optimising treatment can lead to better asthma control and reduced environmental footprint. He also addresses challenges related to spirometry in general practice, particularly changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

They conclude with practical advice for GPs on implementing changes to reduce their respiratory prescribing's environmental impact while maintaining optimal patient care.

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.

Welcome to This Could Save Your Life podcast! With hosts Dr Anna Mullins and Dr Catherine Bourke, a podcast focused on preventative health and health tips for both patients and the general public.

Dr Mullins and Dr Bourke commence by sharing their backgrounds in general practice and exercise physiology, highlighting their joint interest in preventative healthcare. Explaining the three types of prevention: primary, secondary, and tertiary, and briefly outline the structure and objectives of the podcast, aiming to cover a range of important health topics.

For this episode, they focus on bowel cancer screening. They discuss the symptoms that may indicate bowel cancer and the difference between screening tests and diagnostic tests. They outline the importance of recognizing individual risk factors, such as family history, and explain the updated guidelines for bowel cancer screening in Australia, now recommending testing from age 45 for those at average risk.

Describing the process of obtaining and completing the Faecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) kit. Dr Mullins and Dr Bourke emphasise the simplicity of the test and provide practical guidance on obtaining the kit, either online or by phone, and what to do if a patient has misplaced or not completed their kit.

They also talked about lifestyle and dietary interventions to lower the risk of bowel cancer, including quitting smoking, engaging in regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, moderating alcohol consumption, and making specific dietary choices such as reducing red and processed meat while increasing fibre and potentially, dairy intake. As well as the role of aspirin and calcium supplements in risk reduction.

This Could Save Your Life Podcast is under The Good GP podcast and 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

Join your host Dr Krystyna de Lange for this episode of The Good GP Podcast, featuring Dr Ian Coulson, a consultant dermatologist from the United Kingdom and editor-in-chief of DermNet. This is part two of a two-part series on eczema, produced in collaboration with DermNet.

Dr Coulson outlines essential non-pharmacological management techniques for eczema, emphasising the importance of using emollients correctly. He introduces the concept of GTBR (Get the Basics Right) to ensure that these steps are followed closely. Providing insights into selecting the correct type of emollient based on individual patient needs and preferences. 

Moving to the pharmacological management of eczema, Dr Coulson explains the appropriate use of topical corticosteroids. He offers practical advice on choosing the right potency and type of corticosteroid, and the concept of weekend treatment to maintain control. He also touches on the importance of avoiding steroid overuse and educates on steroid withdrawal syndrome.

For cases where eczema is more severe or unmanageable, Dr Coulson discusses advanced treatment options like phototherapy and systemic agents like cyclosporine, azathioprine, and methotrexate. 

Dr Coulson's emphasis on a holistic approach—combining both baselines with advanced treatments—could help GPs with practical strategies to manage eczema more effectively in their practice.

The Good GP is proud to collaborate with DermNet on this podcast. In early 2025 DermNet is launching a new platform designed specifically for healthcare professionals called DermNet PRO. It features a new search tool, the ability to save pages, and access a host of volunteer opportunities. It’s 100% free and coming in early 2025. Join the waitlist now: (https://pro.dermnetnz.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.

Join your host Dr Krystyna de Lange for this episode of The Good GP Podcast, featuring Dr Ian Coulson, a consultant dermatologist from the United Kingdom and editor-in-chief of DermNet. This is part one of a two-part series on eczema, produced in collaboration with DermNet.

Dr Coulson provides an overview of eczema, its different types, and classifications. The differences of eczema and dermatitis, with exceptions such as perioral dermatitis. He classifies eczema into endogenous and exogenous types and explains their varied etiologies and common presentations, including atopic eczema, seborrheic eczema, irritant eczema, allergic contact dermatitis, and more.

Discussing atopic eczema, focusing on its onset, clinical features in different age groups, and the differences between acute and chronic eczema. Dr Coulson shares insights into identifying eczema mimics, such as fungal infections, scabies, and even cutaneous lymphoma, emphasising the importance of careful history-taking and examination.

Dr Coulson then outlines the investigations that may be required for patients with eczema. He covers mycology testing, biopsy considerations, and the limited value of allergy tests like PRIC and RAST in the context of eczema management.

The Good GP is proud to collaborate with DermNet on this podcast. In early 2025 DermNet is launching a new platform designed specifically for healthcare professionals called DermNet PRO. It features a new search tool, the ability to save pages, and access a host of volunteer opportunities. It’s 100% free and coming in early 2025. Join the waitlist now: (https://pro.dermnetnz.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.

In this special episode of The Good GP, recorded live at GP24 in Perth, host Dr Krystyna de Lange interviews Dr Anna Mullins on the topic of prescribing exercises for falls reduction and pelvic floor health.

Dr Anna Mullins is a Brisbane-based GP with a passion for lifestyle medicine and preventative health. As a former exercise physiologist, she emphasises how simple exercises can benefit patients with cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, mental health issues, and even cancer.

Dr Mullins highlights the importance of muscle strengthening and balance training, especially in the elderly. Dr Mullins outlines practical exercises that can easily be incorporated into daily routines, such as performing modified push-ups against a wall. 

They delve into exercises aimed at reducing falls risk in elderly patients. Describing specific exercises such as balancing on one foot, Tai Chi, and yoga, which not only improve physical health but also offer social connection benefits. Muscle strengthening activities like modified push-ups, squats, and core exercises, which are essential for maintaining functional independence and preventing falls.

Discussing maintenance pelvic floor health, especially in postnatal care. Dr Mullins shares techniques for activating pelvic floor muscles and core strength early in the postnatal phase, with starting these exercises soon after childbirth. 

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 special episode of The Good GP, recorded live at GP24 in Perth, host Dr Tim Koh talks with Dr Luca Crostella, an experienced gastroenterologist, about the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Providing an insightful overview of IBD, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Dr Crostella highlights common symptoms such as pain, bleeding, and urgency, and explains the diagnostic challenge posed by the variable nature of these diseases.

They delve into the diagnostic markers and tests for IBD, such as ESR, CRP, and fecal calprotectin levels, along with the role of endoscopic findings. Emphasising the difference of IBD from other conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).

Dr Crostella shares practical tips for general practitioners on how to handle patients with suspected IBD and outlines the pre-referral investigations that can be beneficial. The implications of smoking and obesity in the prognosis of IBD and the potential role of diet in disease management.

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 special episode of The Good GP, recorded live at GP24 in Perth, host Dr Sean Stevens engages in a conversation with Associate Professor Ramesh Balasubramaniam and Dr Francesco Piccolo on the management of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Associate Professor Ramesh Balasubramaniam, an Oral Medicine Specialist and Discipline Lead in Oral Medicine at UWA, and Dr Francesco Piccolo, a respiratory and sleep specialist at Midland, share various approaches to diagnosing and treating obstructive sleep apnea. Discussing patient-specific factors that influence the choice of therapy, including the use of CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) and mandibular advancement devices.

Dr Piccolo emphasises the importance of thorough clinical evaluation and insights into the sleep study reports, the severity of obstructive sleep apnea, and the associated symptoms and comorbidities that influence treatment decisions. Prof. Balasubramaniam discusses the role of patient preference in treatment adherence and the importance of follow-up and monitoring.

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 of The Good GP, Dr Krystyna de Lange engages in a conversation with Dr Nick Hummel, a respected and experienced GP from the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, on his experience of becoming a patient following his prostate cancer diagnosis.

Dr Hummel shares his journey, the process leading up to his diagnosis, and the various medical procedures and challenges he has faced since. He explores the importance of being up to date with preventative health and screening measures and taking into consideration full personal and family history in conjunction with a GP.

He highlights the importance of comprehensive, multidisciplinary care and underlines the necessity of not neglecting one's own health as a medical professional. Emphasising the value of being proactive about health insurance, planning for unexpected medical leave, and consulting with one's own GP regularly.

Through his experiences, Dr Hummel aims to raise awareness among GPs about the critical importance of self-care, regular health screenings, and managing their health risks responsibly. Providing practical advice for other doctors who may be navigating similar health challenges.

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.