Tips, tricks and things that young people want you to know!

The largest group to be diagnosed with sexually transmissible infections (STI) in NSW are people aged 15-29 years. GPs are the health professional that young people are most likely to access   for care. GPs not only play a pivotal role in prevention, testing and treatment of STIs, but are hugely influential in normalising and promoting patient access to sexual health care across the lifespan.

Download this podcast to learn from other GPs about approaches and top tips for delivering sexual health care to young people from a range of backgrounds. This includes how to easily start a conversation to offer and conduct sexual health screening. Also featured are young people talking about what matters to them when accessing sexual health care. Simple and practical techniques are included which GPs can use to improve a young person’s experience when accessing General Practice.

Part 2 - Sexual Health Care for Young People

Gambling can have significant impacts on health and wellbeing. It can cause significant financial, health, relationship, education and employment, and social and psychological harm. It is estimated that for every person experiencing problems with gambling, six other people are affected.
Download this podcast to learn about the role of GP’s in identifying, assessing and treating people experiencing gambling harm. The podcast features Mr Ned Anson, a young man who shares his experience of living with and recovering from gambling harm. 

Resources: 
GPs can encourage patients to visit the GambleAware website www.gambleaware.nsw.gov.au or call 1800 858 858. 

GPs can also make a warm referral by contacting a Gamble Aware service directly (patient consent is required) -https://www.gambleaware.nsw.gov.au/i-need-support/i-need-to-talk-to-someone/is-there-support-near-me 

Brief biosocial gambling screen https://www.icrg.org/resources/brief-biosocial-gambling-screen

Gambling harm awareness training for General Practitioners – Part 1

In this podcast, Addiction Medicine Specialist and GP, Dr Hester Wilson is joined by Dr Martina Gleeson, Sydney GP to discuss the NSW Opioid Treatment Program 

Dr Wilson and Dr Gleeson discuss:
-	the implementation of SafeScript NSW
-	the how, why and when of assessment and treatment for opioid use disorder including available treatments and medications, managing withdrawal risks, contingency plans and the benefits of ongoing treatment
-	the importance collaboration and open communication between patient, family and treating team (doctor, pharmacist, pain clinic etc) 
-	Naloxone and recognising an overdose
-	Free support services for GPs in NSW such as the Drug and Alcohol Specialist Advisory Service and Opioid Treatment Education for Health Professionals in NSW 
-	Relationships with AOD support services and the Local Health Districts.

For further support please reach out to the following AOD support service:
•	For clinical advice: Drug & Alcohol Specialist Advisory Service (DASAS)- https://protect-au.mimecast.com/s/WBZhCANp3nuL7XvfG_ru9?domain=svhs.org.au
•	For support finding pharmacies and other services that provide OTP in your area: The Opioid Treatment Line (OTL) - https://protect-au.mimecast.com/s/HzgACBNq3gupErgT6n4pO?domain=svhs.org.au
•	For Opioid Treatment Education for Health Professionals in NSW (free courses) : https://otac.org.au/

The Ins and Outs of the NSW Opioid Treatment Program for NSW General Practitioners

Dr Jane Brabin talks to Dr Ellie Freedman and Dr Kathy Kramer about the role of good documentation in management of domestic and family violence.

Resources:

A comprehensive safety plan:
Western Integrated Family Violence Partnership - My Safety Plan: https://whwest.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Safety_Plan2.pdf

State-based DFV risk assessment and management frameworks:
•	NSW – Domestic violence safety assessment tool (DVSAT) - https://www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0005/41873/Domestic-Violence-Safety-and-Assessment-Tool-DVSAT.pdf

•	VIC - Family Violence Multi-Agency Risk Assessment and Management Framework (MARAM) - https://www.vic.gov.au/family-violence-multi-agency-risk-assessment-and-management

•	QLD - Domestic and family violence common risk and safety framework - https://www.publications.qld.gov.au/dataset/domestic-and-family-violence-prevention/resource/c927ea9b-6973-4912-966e-dc11d1d46a67

•	SA - Family safety framework, Practice Manual - https://officeforwomen.sa.gov.au/documents/family-safety-portal/Family-Safety-Framework-Manual.pdf

•	NT - Domestic and Family violence risk assessment and management framework - https://tfhc.nt.gov.au/domestic,-family-and-sexual-violence-reduction/ramf

•	WA: Western Australian family and domestic violence common risk assessment and risk management framework - https://www.wa.gov.au/system/files/2021-10/CRARMF.pdf

•	National risk assessment principles for domestic and family violence - Toivonen C, Backhouse C. 2018. - https://www.anrows.org.au/research-program/national-risk-assessment-principles/

Documentation in management of domestic and family violence

This podcast features a GP, sexual health specialist, nurse practitioner and patient advocates discussing simple approaches to having conversations with patients about STIs and blood-borne viruses (BBVs). With some STIs on the rise in NSW, you’ll learn about the latest trends, who’s at risk and practical ways to improve patient care to prevent STI and BBV infection among your patients and local community.

The panellists discuss: 
•	What can help GPs to build confidence 
•	What patients want GPs to know and do 
•	The best available tools and resources
•	Strategies for working with young people and LGBTQIA+ patients

Listening notes:
•	The volume of panellist Dr Kym Collins is low – suggest raising volume

Podcast resources:

STI HIV Testing Tool - NSW Health - http://www.stipu.nsw.gov.au/sti-hiv-testing-tool

ASHM – Decision Making in Hepatitis B - https://ashm.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/ASHM-Decision-Making-in-Hepatitis-B-2021-update-2.pdf

ASHM – Decision Making in Hepatitis C - https://ashm.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/2021ASHM-Decision-making-in-hepatitis-C_.pdf

Australian STI Management Guidelines - https://sti.guidelines.org.au/

NSW Sexual Health Infolink - https://www.shil.nsw.gov.au/

NSW Sexual Health Clinics - https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/sexualhealth/pages/sexual-health-clinics.aspx

Australasian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexual Health Medicine (ASHM) - https://www.ashm.org.au/resources/

ACON - https://www.acon.org.au/

Welcome Here (inclusivity project for LGBTIQ people)- https://www.welcomehere.org.au/about

TransHub - https://www.transhub.org.au/clinicians

Multicultural HIV and Hepatitis Service – NSW Health - http://www.mhahs.org.au/

Hepatitis NSW - resources - https://www.hep.org.au/resources/free-hepatitis-resources/

Eliminate Hepatitis C Australia – practice support toolkits - https://ecpartnership.org.au/toolkit#act_ec_practice_support_toolkit

Tips and resources to comfortably talk sex, STIs and blood-borne viruses - podcast 1/3

This podcast discusses care for a patient diagnosed with syphilis. You’ll learn approaches to patient engagement (from a GP and patient advocates’ perspectives), clinical and practice tips (particularly for engaging young people and LGBTQIA+ patients) and the resources you’ll need to care for this patient. With syphilis on the rise among the general population in NSW, this podcast equips GPs for the important role you play in preventing infection among your patients and community. 
 
This podcast follows on from the first podcast in the series where a GP, sexual health specialist, nurse practitioner and patient advocates discussing approaches to conversations with patients about STIs and blood-borne viruses.  

Listening notes:
•	Podcast 2 has the same introduction as podcast 1 – suggest skipping and starting at: 05:40 if you have previously heard.
•	The volume of panellist Dr Kym Collins is low – suggest raising volume

Podcast resources: 

NSW Sexual Health Infolink - https://www.shil.nsw.gov.au/

NSW Sexual Health Clinics - https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/sexualhealth/pages/sexual-health-clinics.aspx

STI HIV Testing Tool - NSW Health - http://www.stipu.nsw.gov.au/sti-hiv-testing-tool

ASHM - Decision Making in Syphilis - https://ashm.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/FINALSCREENDecision-makinginsyphilis_V2.2_Nov21-1.pdf

Australian STI Management Guidelines - https://sti.guidelines.org.au/

Australasian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexual Health Medicine (ASHM) - https://www.ashm.org.au/resources/
 
Let Them Know - https://letthemknow.org.au/

Melbourne Sexual Health Centre - https://www.mshc.org.au/

Syphilis discussion – tips & resources to comfortably manage syphilis among patients – podcast 2/3

This podcast discusses care for a patient who is clinically appropriate for hepatitis C testing. You’ll learn approaches to patient engagement, clinical skills and practice tips and resources to care for this patient. With the elimination of hepatitis C now an achievable goal in NSW, your role as a GP in testing, diagnosis and treatment has never been so important. 
 
This podcast follows on from the first podcast in the series where a GP, sexual health specialist, nurse practitioner and patient advocates discussing approaches to conversations with patients about STIs and blood-borne viruses.

Listening notes:
•	Podcast 3 has the same introduction as podcast 1 & 2 – suggest skipping and starting at 05:58 if you have previously heard.
•	The volume of panellist Dr Kym Collins is low – suggest raising volume

Podcast resources:

ASHM – Decision Making in Hepatitis C - https://ashm.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/2021ASHM-Decision-making-in-hepatitis-C_.pdf

NSW STI Programs Unit – NSW Health (collection of STI resources for GPs and patients) - https://stipu.nsw.gov.au/gp/

HCV GP Management Plan – ASHM - https://ashm.org.au/resources/ashm-hcv-gpmp-march-2021/

Communicare User Manual – Viral Hepatitis - https://ashm.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Resource_Communicare_User_Manual_Low_Res_18MB.pdf

Eliminate Hepatitis C Australia – practice support toolkits - https://ecpartnership.org.au/toolkit#act_ec_practice_support_toolkit

Dried Blood Spot – HCV and HIV testing service - https://www.dbstest.health.nsw.gov.au/

ACON Alcohol and other Drugs programs - https://www.acon.org.au/what-we-are-here-for/alcohol-drugs/ (including Pivot Point - https://pivotpoint.org.au/)

NUAA (NSW Users and AIDS Association) - https://nuaa.org.au/

Multicultural HIV and Hepatitis Service – NSW Health - http://www.mhahs.org.au/

NSW Sexual Health Infolink - https://www.shil.nsw.gov.au/

Hepatitis NSW - https://www.hep.org.au/

Hepatitis C discussion – tips and resources to comfortably manage hepatitis C – podcast 3/3

Listen to this podcast to hear Andrew Hargreaves, in conversation with Dr Hester Wilson (GP and addiction specialist) and Dr Chris Hayes (pain specialist) discussing what is SafeScript NSW and how the system works. They will also share their experience using SafeScript NSW and how it has supported their clinical decision making.

Links to the resources and services discussed in their podcast:

SafeScript NSW (https://www.safescript.health.nsw.gov.au/health-practitioners) provides prescribers and pharmacists with real-time information about a patient’s prescribing and dispensing history for certain high-risk medicines such as opioids and benzodiazepines to improve clinical decision making and patient safety. 

Registering (https://register.safescript.health.nsw.gov.au/) for SafeScript NSW is simple and takes about five minutes. Once registered, health practitioners can enable their integrated clinical software to support SafeScript NSW. 

A number of clinical tools are available to support general practitioners to use SafeScript NSW. These include:
SafeScript NSW Clinical Advice Line (https://www.safescript.health.nsw.gov.au/health-practitioners/clinical-support/clinical-advice-line) 1800 434 155 offering free 24/7 clinical advice staffed by experienced Clinical Advisors
SafeScript NSW eLearning modules (https://www.safescript.health.nsw.gov.au/health-practitioners/clinical-support/education-and-training)
SafeScript NSW HealthPathways (https://www.safescript.health.nsw.gov.au/health-practitioners/clinical-support/healthpathways)

For more information about SafeScript NSW, please visit http://www.safescript.health.nsw.gov.au

Safescript NSW - What is SafeScript NSW & why use SafeScript NSW Podcast 1/4

Withdrawal management is an important component of an alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment system. With General Practitioners having good rapport with their patients and being integrated into their community, they play a vital role in discussing and managing withdrawal treatment options for those who present with lived experience of alcohol and other drugs.

This podcast aims to inform clinicians on how to identify, support and refer patients who may need withdrawal management from alcohol and other drugs. It also touches on how to talk to patients about withdrawal management and engaging them in options outside of withdrawal treatment. It is an evidence based insightful discussion between a GP staff specialist, Dr Robert Page, and the Chief Addiction Medicine Specialist at the Centre for Alcohol and other Drugs, Dr Deborah Zador.

Resources: 

Management of withdrawal from Alcohol and Other Drugs – Clinical Guidance – https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/aod/professionals/Publications/clinical-guidance-withdrawal-alcohol-and-other-drugs.pdf

Management of withdrawal from Alcohol and Other Drugs – Handbook –
https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/aod/professionals/Publications/handbook%20managing%20withdrawal%20alcohol%20and%20other%20drugs.pdf

Evidence Check Management of withdrawal from Alcohol and Other Drugs – https://www.saxinstitute.org.au/wp-content/uploads/20.08_Evidence-Check_Management-of-withdrawal-from-alcohol-and-other-drugs.pdf

Withdrawal management and residential rehabilitation services – https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/aod/Pages/wmrs-contact.aspx

Take home naloxone program – https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/aod/programs/Pages/naloxone.aspx

The Drug and Alcohol Specialist Advisory Service (DASAS) – https://www.dacas.org.au/

Screening forms for substance use – https://www.sbirt.care/tools.aspx

RACGP resources to assist GPs managing patients undergoing alcohol withdrawal as an outpatient –
https://www.racgp.org.au/education/professional-development/online-learning/webinars/drugs-and-alcohol/a-practical-guide-to-alcohol-home-detox-for-gp%E2%80%99s

Nicotine withdrawal from NSW Health has separate Guidelines for managing tobacco cessation –
https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/tobacco/Pages/managing-nicotine-dependence.aspx

Withdrawal Guidance from alcohol and other drugs within a GP setting

Many patients at risk of HIV (e.g., men who have sex with men or those how travel to high HIV prevalence countries) regularly attend General Practice for a broad range of health conditions which gives GP unique opportunities to prevent transmission in the community. 

This podcast features two GPs Dr Michael Burke and Dr Miriam Grotowski and a community representative Jimmy Yu Hsiang Chen to inform GPs when and how to offer testing, PrEP, PEP for HIV utilising evidence-based guidelines and extensive practice experience. Assessing HIV risk  part of sexual health prevention activities detailed in the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. Guidelines for preventive activities in general practice. 9th edn, updated. East Melbourne, Vic: RACGP, 2018. (last update 08-12-2021).

The panelists discuss: 
•	How to recognise at-risk patient groups for HIV/STI testing
•	Identify challenges and solutions for discussing and providing HIV prevention in General Practice 
•	What tailored GP tools and resources can make HIV prevention in General Practice faster and easier. 

Helpful links:

Sexual Health Infolink (SHIL) 
https://www.shil.nsw.gov.au/ 
SHIL’s aim is to promote the sexual health of the NSW community through providing accurate and timely information and referral options. The service specialises in HIV and STI risk assessment, testing, treatment and support. SHIL also provide specialist support to nurses, doctors, counsellors and other professionals who are caring for people with sexual health problems and are open from 9:00am to 5:30pm, Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays).

ASHM Decision Making in PrEP tool
 https://www.ashm.org.au/resources/decision-making-in-prep/ 
This 2-page Decision Making in PrEP tool provides a prescribing pathway which summarises the key eligibility and recommended assessment for primary care providers in Australia who wish to prescribe PrEP and the ongoing patient education and monitoring requirements.

NSW Sexual Health Clinics finder: 
https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/sexualhealth/Pages/sexual-health-clinics.aspx 

RACGP On-demand webinar PrEP webinar 
https://www.racgp.org.au/racgp-digital-events-calendar/online-event-items/on-demand/prep-prescribing-for-gps 
This 1 hour CDP endorsed webinar teaches the 5 steps all GPs can use to use quickly, safely and easily to prevent HIV infection. 

Australian STI Management Guidelines for Use in Primary Care https://sti.guidelines.org.au/ 
The Guidelines are an online resource for primary care health professionals. They provide concise information to support the prevention, testing, diagnosis, management and treatment of sexually transmissible infections (STIs) for adults and adolescents and are frequently cited and referenced by other guidelines.

The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National)– Free to GPs 
https://www.tisnational.gov.au/ 
The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) is an interpreting service provided by the Department of Home Affairs for people who do not speak English. The TIS National immediate phone interpreting service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year for the cost of a local call for any person or organisation in Australia who needs an interpreter just call 131 450.

HIV Prevention in General Practice (PrEP, PEP, condoms, testing and treatment)

Vaping, or e-cigarette use, is increasing across Australia along with the potential for long-term nicotine addiction. GPs are well placed to identify patients who are vaping and smoking, and to assess nicotine addiction as well as the other harms associated with use. 

This podcast will explore the evolving landscape of e-cigarettes as well as provide practical tips on managing nicotine addiction. It will also address ways to raise the issue of vaping in a non-judgemental way and resources and services available to GPs for continuity of cessation care and support. 

Resources:

•	Evidence based approaches to quit nicotine webinar (Oct 2022) - racgp.org.au/racgp-digital-events-calendar/online-event-content/evidence-based-approaches-to-quit-nicotine

•	‘Do you know what you’re vaping?’ Information for Health Professionals, has a range of resources including posters, fact sheets and social media tiles - https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/tobacco/pages/vaping-professionals.aspx 

•	Tools for Health Professionals, includes links to the RACGP supporting smoking cessation: a guide for health professionals - https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/tobacco/Pages/tools-for-health-professionals.aspx 

•	KidsQuit - https://kidshealth.schn.health.nsw.gov.au/kidsquit-brief-interventions-smoking-cessation-e-learning

•	Quitline - https://www.quit.org.au/

E-cigarettes (vaping) and young people

Listen to General Practitioner, Dr Caran Cheung, and Staff Specialist, Simone Strasser, talk about the important role of GPs in Hepatitis B vaccination, testing, treatment, and monitoring.  This podcast discusses how to effectively engage with communities at high-risk of Hepatitis B, and the appropriate care pathway. The podcast identifies who is at-risk and how to respond in primary care settings, including diagnosis, treatment, and routine monitoring. Early diagnosis plays a vital role in reducing the burden of Hepatitis B, and GPs are encouraged to undertake opportunistic Hepatitis B testing with at-risk communities.

Resources and services mentioned in this podcast and useful links: 
•	Commonwealth and NSW-funded free Hepatitis B Vaccines: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/immunisation/Pages/gp_catchup.aspx
•	ASHM ‘How to become and s100 prescriber’: https://ashm.org.au/hiv/hiv-prescriber-programs/how-to-become-hiv-prescriber/
•	HBV s100 prescriber course in the tools: https://www.ashm.org.au/hbv/hbv-prescriber-programs/how-to-become-a-hepatitis-b-s100-prescriber/
•	Healthpathways: https://cesphn.org.au/general-practice/healthpathways
•	Liver Foundation: https://liver.org.au/
•	Gastroenterological Society of Australia: https://www.gesa.org.au/
•	ASHM Training -  Culturally responsive care and Hepatitis B: https://ashm.org.au/training_cat/culturally-responsive-care-and-hepatitis-b-nsw/
 
Tools:
•	CESPHN templates for health professionals: https://cesphn.org.au/general-practice/practice-support-and-development/templates
•	ASHM Decision-making in Hepatitis B chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://ashm.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/ASHM_Decision-Making-in-Hepatitis-B-Toolkit-Update_Nov.pdf 
•	ASHM Reach-B Form: https://reach-b.ashm.org.au/further-information-on-reach-b/  This form is designed for s100 prescribers, not for community members or general clinicians. If you are not a prescriber and have a question for ASHM, please contact HBVPrescriber@ashm.org.au 
•	Free, interactive and user-friendly drug interaction chart, University of Liverpool: https://hepatology-druginteractions.org/

Hepatitis B in General Practice (vaccination, testing, treatment, and monitoring)

The Gender Centre
https://gendercentre.org.au/ 
The Gender Centre is committed to developing and providing services and activities, which enhance the ability of transgender, gender diverse and gender exploring people make informed choices.  The Centre is recognised as a centre of excellence in NSW through an ASES Award Accreditation, (Australian Service Excellence Standards) and nationally in the delivery of front line specialist multi-purpose services aimed at supporting the transgender, gender diverse and gender questioning community across all stages of transition (pre- mid and post transition).
The service offers support from staff with highly specialised qualifications, skills, experience and capabilities. Allowing the team to respond to the unique needs of this client group through the provision of specialist counselling, psychological and other allied health services, outreach support, case-management, family and youth support, homelessness prevention and intervention services, and referrals to help people navigate the health care system in a safe and culturally competent space. The Gender Centre also undertakes advocacy work, resource development, stakeholder training and corporate education. We also operate as a secondary needle & syringe program (NSP) outlet

TransHub
A digital information and resource platform for all trans and gender diverse people in NSW, loved ones, allies, and health providers.
https://www.transhub.org.au/ 

Maple Leaf House - Transgender & Gender Diversity (under 25)
Provides multi-disciplinary healthcare to trans and gender diverse young people up to the age of 25 years in rural and regional areas of NSW. 
A GP referral is required.

For further information Health care workers can refer to: https://www.hnekidshealth.nsw.gov.au/specialist_services/gender 

Australian STI management guidelines for use in Primary Care
the Guidelines are an online resource for primary care health professionals. They provide concise information to support the prevention, testing, diagnosis, management and treatment of sexually transmissible infections (STIs) for adults and adolescents
https://sti.guidelines.org.au/populations-and-situations/trans-and-gender-diverse-people/ 

NSW Sexual Health Clinics
Find your local clinic for support and referral here: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/sexualhealth/Pages/sexual-health-clinics.aspx 

Equinox (online GP led and focused resources – Melbourne based)
https://equinox.org.au/resources/

t150 (Surry Hills, Sydney)
http://thealbioncentre.org.au/clinical-services/t150/

Self-collected STI specimens poster and other resources
https://stipu.nsw.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/DIY-sheet-2020.pdf 
https://stipu.nsw.gov.au/gp/hiv-and-sti-clinical-management/ 

ASHM Decision making in PrEP tool
https://ashm.org.au/resources/decision-making-in-prep/

STI & HIV Care for Transgender People in General Practice

Non-Fatal Strangulation can occur as a result of misadventure or injury, but can also occur in the context of domestic and family violence, self-harm, sexual assault, child abuse and neglect or assault by a non-family member. These specific contexts will result in important psychosocial considerations during assessment and management. 

This podcast will offer clinical support for GP’s managing adult and paediatric patients who present with NFS in the context of violence and abuse. It aims to improve patient care by increasing GP’s awareness of the potential risks and injuries resulting from NFS; by outlining appropriate assessment and management or care coordination of an episode of NFS; and the importance of follow up for people who have experienced NFS who are a population at high risk of poor outcomes.

Responding to non-fatal strangulation – what you cannot see

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a lifelong disability but is fully preventable. GPs can play an important role in the prevention of FASD through primary and secondary prevention strategies. 

This podcast will provide an overview of the impact of alcohol during pregnancy. Prevention strategies such as conversations around pregnancy and alcohol, screening, detection and raising community awareness will be discussed. Information on how to support women who are at risk of drinking will also be discussed.

Resources

National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Guidelines: https://www.nhmrc.gov.au/health-advice/alcohol

RACGP guidelines for preventive activities in general practice: https://www.racgp.org.au/FSDEDEV/media/documents/Clinical%20Resources/Guidelines/Red%20Book/Guidelines-for-preventive-activities-in-general-practice.pdf

Every Moment Matters: https://everymomentmatters.org.au/

Every Moment Matters AUDIT-C Factsheet: https://everymomentmatters.org.au/wp-content/uploads/FARE_A4_FactSheet_Using-AUDIT-C-In-Practice.pdf

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Hub - https://www.fasdhub.org.au/

FASD Hub Preventative Strategies - https://www.fasdhub.org.au/fasd-information/prevention-strategies/

FASD Hub Alcohol and Pregnancy - https://www.fasdhub.org.au/alcohol--pregnancy/

National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) Strong Born campaign - https://www.naccho.org.au/fasd/strong-born/

Your Room: https://yourroom.health.nsw.gov.au/

Medcast ‘Supporting alcohol-free pregnancy and safe breastfeeding’ e-learning: https://medcast.com.au/courses/596

Preventing Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

Positive interactions with primary healthcare providers can be game changing for patients interested in managing their weight and health. Hear expert insights from GPs and personal stories to learn how sensitive and evidence-based conversations can reduce stigma and lead to better health outcomes for consumers. Plus, you’ll hear about new training available for GPs to lead more positive conversations (delivered by the Obesity Collective).

Enhancing obesity care: expertise meets lived experience

What’s the latest on Syphilis, Doxy-PEP, M Gen and PID?  

In this episode, we dive into the current syphilis outbreak in NSW and discuss why it’s crucial to increase the frequency of sexual health checks in general practice. We’ll also cover new guidance from the Australian Society for HIV Medicine (ASHM) on prescribing Doxy-PEP, including when it’s appropriate to use it. 

You’ll hear firsthand from a patient about their experiences with sexual health care and using Doxy-PEP.
 
In the second part, we’ll walk you through a detailed case study on Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), providing a clear, step-by-step approach for assessment and management in general practice. Plus, get the latest updates on mycoplasma genitalium (M Gen) – including testing and treatment recommendations. 

Discover why it’s vital to offer comprehensive sexual health testing to all sexually active patients and get tips on how to discuss this important topic with different patient groups. 

Resources Referenced in Podcast: 

1.	Australian STI Management Guidelines (sti.guidelines.org.au/ )
2.	NSW Sexually Transmissible Infections Data Report: January to December 2022 (https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/Reports/Publications/sti/nsw-2022-sti-report.pdf)
3.	ASHM: Decision Making In Syphilis clinical decision-making tool (https://ashm.org.au/resources/syphilis-decision-making-tool/)
4.	NSW Sexual Health Clinics contact list (https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/sexualhealth/Pages/sexual-health-clinics.aspx)
5.	ASHM Training: NSW Introduction to Syphilis for Midwives and Clinicians Providing Antenatal Care (https://ashm.org.au/training/nsw-introduction-to-syphilis-for-midwives-and-clinicians-providing-antenatal-care/)
6.	ASHM: 2023 Consensus Statement on doxycycline prophylaxis (Doxy-PEP) (https://ashm.org.au/about/news/doxy-pep-statement/)
7.	Play Safe Pro: Resource Order Page (https://pro.playsafe.health.nsw.gov.au/promotional-resources-2/order)
8.	Contact tracing notification tools:
a.	Let Them Know (https://letthemknow.org.au/)
b.	The Drama Down Under (https://www.thedramadownunder.info/)
c.	Better to Know (https://www.bettertoknow.org.au/)

What’s the latest on Syphilis, Doxy-PEP, M Gen and PID - Second Episode (2/2)

What’s the latest on Syphilis, Doxy-PEP, M Gen and PID?  

In this episode, we dive into the current syphilis outbreak in NSW and discuss why it’s crucial to increase the frequency of sexual health checks in general practice. We’ll also cover new guidance from the Australian Society for HIV Medicine (ASHM) on prescribing Doxy-PEP, including when it’s appropriate to use it. 

You’ll hear firsthand from a patient about their experiences with sexual health care and using Doxy-PEP.
 
In the second part, we’ll walk you through a detailed case study on Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), providing a clear, step-by-step approach for assessment and management in general practice. Plus, get the latest updates on mycoplasma genitalium (M Gen) – including testing and treatment recommendations. 

Discover why it’s vital to offer comprehensive sexual health testing to all sexually active patients and get tips on how to discuss this important topic with different patient groups. 

Part 2: https://soundcloud.com/nswact-racgp/syphilis-pid-and-m-gen-oh-my-two-parts?si=d5372553ed644a8ea1a7bed4012df2b5&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing

Resources Referenced in Podcast:

1. Australian STI Management Guidelines (sti.guidelines.org.au/)
2. NSW Sexually Transmissible Infections Data Report: January to December 2022 (www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/Rep…sti-report.pdf)
3. ASHM: Decision Making In Syphilis clinical decision-making tool (ashm.org.au/resources/syphilis-…cision-making-tool/)
4. NSW Sexual Health Clinics contact list (www.health.nsw.gov.au/sexualhealth/P…h-clinics.aspx)
5. ASHM Training: NSW Introduction to Syphilis for Midwives and Clinicians Providing Antenatal Care (ashm.org.au/training/nsw-introd…ing-antenatal-care/)
6. ASHM: 2023 Consensus Statement on doxycycline prophylaxis (Doxy-PEP) (ashm.org.au/about/news/doxy-pep-statement/)
7. Play Safe Pro: Resource Order Page (pro.playsafe.health.nsw.gov.au/promotion…s-2/order)
8. Contact tracing notification tools:
a. Let Them Know (letthemknow.org.au/)
b. The Drama Down Under (www.thedramadownunder.info/)
c. Better to Know (www.bettertoknow.org.au/)

What’s the latest on Syphilis, Doxy-PEP, M Gen and PID - First Episode (1/2)

Domestic and family violence is a serious and widespread issue that significantly impacts the health and wellbeing of Australians, particularly women and children. This podcast will delve into the role of GPs and Primary Health in intervening and minimizing the health and wellbeing risks and impacts for their children, young people and families, what a ‘good experience’ may look like for patients and the referral and support pathways.

Additional resources:

Daisy Daisy app - https://www.1800respect.org.au/daisy

Empower you (Police) Empower You App - https://www.police.nsw.gov.au/safety_and_prevention/policing_in_the_community/empower_you_app

Tech control/E safety - https://www.esafety.gov.au/key-issues/domestic-family-violence

Domestic Violence Safety Assessment Tool - https://www.facs.nsw.gov.au/download?file=592948

Child MRG and Wellbeing Unit - https://reporter.childstory.nsw.gov.au/s/mrg

Child Wellbeing Unit and Child Wellbeing Coordinators - https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/parvan/childprotect/Pages/cwu.aspx

Further advice can be sought from calling the NSW Health Child Wellbeing Unit at 1300 480 420 (Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm). You can also leave a voicemail message or email after hours. Further information is available at https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/parvan/childprotect/Pages/cwu.aspx

SCAN Protocol - https://www1.health.nsw.gov.au/pds/ActivePDSDocuments/GL2014_012.pdf

Australian Child Maltreatment Study - https://www.acms.au/

Legislation

Information sharing 16a (Child Safety)
The purpose of Chapter 16a in the Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998 is to prioritise the safety, welfare and wellbeing of a child or young person over an individual’s right to privacy. 

Chapter 16a allows prescribed bodies (government and non-government) the authority to share relevant information about children and young people to collaboratively promote their safety, welfare and wellbeing. This information sharing does not require consent from the related person(s). 

Information sharing 13a (DFV) - Part 13A of the Crimes (Domestic and Personal Violence) Act 2007 (https://legislation.nsw.gov.au/view/whole/html/inforce/current/act-2007-080) – Referenced in podcast at 26 minutes
This supports an information sharing framework intended to improve safety outcomes for victim-survivors of domestic violence. It creates certain exceptions to NSW privacy laws that allow NSW agencies and organisations to exchange information to respond appropriately to the needs of victim-survivors, and encourages inter-agency collaboration. 
There are two key aspects to Part 13A: (1) Sharing information to facilitate victims' access to domestic violence support services and (2) Sharing information to prevent or lessen a threat to the life, health or safety of a person eg if a victim-survivor or person who is potentially at risk has refused to give consent or it is unreasonable or impractical to obtain the person's consent.

Raising and responding to domestic and family violence when seeing children and families

Listen to this podcast series to learn more about the ACT’s real time prescription monitoring system ‘Canberra Script’ and how embedding this important system into your workflow can lead to better patient health outcomes.

Footnotes:
www.canberrascript.act.gov.au 
Technical IT support: itsupport.canberrascript@act.gov.au or 1800 776 633
General support: canberrascript@act.gov.au or 02 5124 9208
Support Services
-	Painaustralia Pain Services Directory
-	Painaustralia’s Support Groups and Help Lines 
-	Opioid medicines and pain | healthdirect
-	Medicines Line (1300 MEDICINE) - NPS MedicineWise 
-	Prescription opioids | Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)
-	ACT Health Alcohol and Drug Services
-	ACT Mental Health Services 
-	Canberra Alliance for Harm Minimisation and Advocacy 
-	Capital Health Network | For Health Professionals - HealthPathways (chnact.org.au)


Benefits of Real Time Prescription Monitoring (EP 1/4)

Patient focused care (EP 2/4)

Managing Complex Cases via Canberra Script (EP/ 4/4)

Integrating Canberra Script into your workflow (EP 3/4)

Listen to this podcast series to learn more about the ACT’s real time prescription monitoring system ‘Canberra Script’ and how embedding this important system into your workflow can lead to better patient health outcomes. 

www.canberrascript.act.gov.au 
Technical IT support: itsupport.canberrascript@act.gov.au or 1800 776 633
General support: canberrascript@act.gov.au or 02 5124 9208
Support Services
-	Painaustralia Pain Services Directory (https://www.painaustralia.org.au/pain-services-directory/pain-directory)
-	Painaustralia’s Support Groups and Help Lines (https://www.painaustralia.org.au/find-support/care-in-community-1/painaustralia-support-groups-help-lines)
-	Opioid medicines and pain | healthdirect (https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/opioids)
-	Medicines Line (1300 MEDICINE) - NPS MedicineWise (https://www.nps.org.au/about-us/services/knowledge-transfer/medicines-line-1300-medicine)
-	Prescription opioids | Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) (https://www.tga.gov.au/hubs/prescription-opioids)
-	ACT Health Alcohol and Drug Services (https://www.health.act.gov.au/services/alcohol-and-drug-services)
-	ACT Mental Health Services (https://www.health.act.gov.au/services/mental-health)
-	Canberra Alliance for Harm Minimisation and Advocacy (https://www.cahma.org.au/about.html)
-	Capital Health Network | For Health Professionals - HealthPathways (chnact.org.au)(https://www.chnact.org.au/for-health-professionals/healthpathways/)

Podcast 1: Benefits of Real Time Prescription Monitoring (1/4)

Podcast 2: Patient focused care (2/4)

Podcast 3: Integrating Canberra Script into your workflow (3/4)

Podcast 4: Managing Complex Cases via Canberra Script (4/4)

In this episode, we explore the changing landscape of nicotine dependence and discuss cessation, focusing on practical strategies for GPs to support their patients in quitting smoking and vaping or other forms of nicotine. 

We discuss recent legislative changes, the latest evidence-based treatment options, and the importance of patient-centred communication.
Our expert guests include:

•	Professor Rowen Ivers – GP, public health physician, and member of the RACGP Expert Advisory Group on Tobacco
•	Vanessa McLean – NSW Quitline Supervisor and experienced counsellor
•	Facilitated by Carolyn Murray – Director, Tobacco and E-Cigarettes Strategy, NSW Health

Trigger Warning:
This episode contains discussions about nicotine dependence, withdrawal, and quitting, including references to mental health struggles, suicides, and suicidal thoughts. If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to Lifeline (13 11 14) or Quitline (13 7948).

Key Discussion Points:
1.	Understanding the policy and legislative environment
2.	Effective conversations about nicotine dependence
3.	Evidenced-based treatment options
4.	The role of Quitline and referral pathways

Resources mentioned in this episode:

•	RACGP Supporting smoking cessation: A guide for health professionals - https://www.racgp.org.au/clinical-resources/clinical-guidelines/key-racgp-guidelines/view-all-racgp-guidelines/supporting-smoking-cessation

•	ICanQuit NSW Government website - https://www.icanquit.com.au/

•	Quitline PAVE app - https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/So_5Clx1rOT1XjRGCGfVTzZYUN?domain=cancer.nsw.gov.au
Download it for Apple devices - https://apps.apple.com/au/app/pave/id6737787436
Get it on Google Play - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=net.cinsw.vayp&pli=1

•	NSW Health Guide to Support Young People to Quit E-Cigarettes - https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/tobacco/Pages/e-cigarette-young-people-guide.aspx

•	NSW Health Vaping toolkit - https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/tobacco/Pages/vaping.aspx

•	Therapeutic Goods Administration Vaping hub - https://www.tga.gov.au/products/unapproved-therapeutic-goods/vaping-hub

Having Effective Conversations About Nicotine

Navigating the sensitive topic of violence, abuse, and neglect in clinical practice can be challenging for GPs, especially when there's concern about causing further harm to survivors. In this insightful podcast, we explore practical strategies to help GPs build confidence in addressing these critical issues.

Listen in as we discuss:
•	Common barriers GPs face, such as fear of triggering patients, lack of confidence, and navigating referral pathways.
•	The importance of fostering trust and reducing shame through compassionate, patient-centred responses.
•	Real-world case studies, top tips, and expert insights on how to respond effectively and create a safe, supportive space for patients.
•	Practical tools and clear referral pathways to empower GPs in their role as frontline responders to violence and abuse.
By the end of this episode, GPs will be better equipped to handle disclosures of violence, abuse, and neglect, ensuring they provide the best care and support to those in need.

Resources:
STI guidelines (ASA) link -  https://sti.guidelines.org.au/populations-and-situations/adult-sexual-assault/

ITIC framework link -  https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/patients/trauma/Publications/itic-framework.pdf

RACGP AJGP article 'They made a hard day feel a little easier' - https://www1.racgp.org.au/ajgp/2025/march/they-made-a-hard-day-feel-a-little-easier

VAN Health Pathways: Violence, Abuse and Neglect HealthPathways are available from South West Sydney Primary Health Network as the VAN Lead Region PHN, including: 
•	Domestic and Family Violence 
•	Adult Strangulation 
•	Adult Sexual Assault 
•	Physical Assault and Injury Recording 
Link to the log-in HealthPathways page: https://sws.communityhealthpathways.org/welcome?returnUrl=%2f?


Building Confidence: GPs' Role in Addressing Violence, Abuse, and Neglect

Managing children and families of children who are above a healthy weight is often difficult. Referring families to specialised services and programs can help re-focus families toward a healthy lifestyle, often without pharmacological or surgical intervention.  

Go4Fun is a free, NSW health, evidence-based program for children aged 7-13 years who are above a healthy weight and their families. The 10 week program involves weekly two hour sessions and focuses on healthy eating, physical activity and behaviour change. Clinicians can refer through a number of referral pathways and are kept informed of families’ participation in the program.

Challenges in managing children above a healthy weight

One in four Australian women has experienced violence from an intimate partner (ABS, 2017). The effects of domestic and family violence on physical and mental health result in high use of health care, making GPs an important gateway to care. This podcast will look at two challenging case studies that illustrate the GP’s role in responding to domestic and family violence, and will share practical advice on how GPs can support safety planning for people experiencing violence. 

Resources: 

WLNSW GP toolkit: https://www.wlsnsw.org.au/wp-content/uploads/GP-toolkit-updated-Oct2019.pdf

RACGP - Abuse and Violence White Book: https://www.racgp.org.au/clinical-resources/clinical-guidelines/key-racgp-guidelines/view-all-racgp-guidelines/white-book

DV SAT: https://www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/41874/Domestic-Violence-Safety-and-Assessment-Tool-Guide-DVSAT-Guide.pdf

ACCRM  Family and Domestic Violence Education Package: https://mycollege.acrrm.org.au/search/find-online-learning/details?id=10262&title=Rural+Doctors+Family+and+Domestic+Violence+Education+Package

DVRCV: Identifying and responding to family violence: a guide for general practitioners.
https://www.dvrcv.org.au/publications/books-and-reports/guide-for-general-practitioners


Referral Pathways:

Relationships Australia: http://www.relationships.org.au/ 
1800RESPECT: https://www.1800respect.org.au/
MensLine Australia: https://mensline.org.au/
Men’s Referral Service: https://www.ntv.org.au/get-help/

RACGP - The GP Edition

Popular tracks