Aust Fam Physician
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Osteoporosis is a major contributor to morbidity and mortality in Australia, and is predicted to accelerate as the population grows and increases in age. The aim of this study was to audit 10 general practitioners for their identification of patients with risk factors for osteoporosis, and appropriate screening, treatment and follow up care. ⋯ General practitioners are the healthcare hubs of our communities, including for prevention of diseases such as osteoporosis. The low level of concordance with the guidelines suggests that in this general practice community, passive screening for osteoporosis has been less than effective. Active surveillance, such as the PENCAT tool used in this study, would offer an alternative approach. Further studies could then evaluate whether incorporating this into the usual practice audit process leads to improved patient outcomes.
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Scabies is a common, yet neglected, skin disease. Scabies occurs across Australia, but most frequently in socioeconomically disadvantaged populations in tropical regions, including in remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. In temperate settings, the disease clusters in institutional care facilities. ⋯ Clinical examination remains the mainstay of diagnosis, although dermatoscopy is a useful adjunct. Scabies presents with severe itch and a papular rash, with a predilection for the hands, feet and genitalia. The distribution may be more widespread in infants and older people. Secondary bacterial infection is also common in patients with scabies. Crusted scabies is a rare but highly infectious variant. Topical permethrin is highly effective for individual treatment, but less practical for treatment of asymptomatic contacts and control of outbreaks. Oral ivermectin is a safe and effective alternative, and is now listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme as a third-line treatment.
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The New South Wales (NSW) Sexually Transmissible Infections Program Unit (STIPU) produced nine resources to support the diagnosis and management of sexually transmissible infections (STIs) in general practice. ⋯ STIPU's best practice translation of clinical guidelines could be enhanced by promotion of online resources, links through general practice software, strong engagement with general practice organisations, and developing the role of PNs.
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Closing the gap in health and welfare for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is an ongoing challenge. ⋯ A successful cultural mentorship model is multi-level and safe, and requires mutual trust and respect, time and resources. Potential benefits include equitable access to, and use of, safe quality care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients in general practice.
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Vaccine hesitancy is a public health concern. The objectives of this article were to describe Australian parents' attitudes, behaviours and concerns about vaccination, determine the factors associated with vaccination non-compliance, and provide sources of vaccination information for general practitioners (GPs). ⋯ The 452 respondents were parents of children aged DISCUSSION: GPs have pivotal roles in addressing concerns regarding vaccination. Education and communication with parents will improve their knowledge and trust in vaccination, thereby improving vaccination compliance.