The Medical journal of Australia
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To examine the nature and extent of ambulance attendances involving gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and to compare these with heroin-related attendances in Melbourne, Victoria. ⋯ Ambulance attendance data can be used to index GHB-associated harms. The clear increases in GHB-related ambulance attendances over time highlights the need for further research on how best to respond to this emergent drug-related harm.
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Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is an increasingly recognised syndrome characterised by transient apical left ventricular dysfunction in the absence of significant coronary artery disease. We describe a case of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy complicated by Dressler's syndrome. To our knowledge, these two conditions have not previously been reported in combination.
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To examine whether there was a reduction in demand for psychological services provided through the Access to Allied Psychological Services (ATAPS) projects after the introduction of the Better Access to Psychiatrists, Psychologists and General Practitioners through the Medicare Benefits Schedule (Better Access) program, and whether any such reduction was greater in urban than rural areas. ⋯ For the first 5 months of the Better Access program, the two programs seemed to operate relatively independently of each other in terms of service provision, but in urban Divisions there was a move towards services provided through the Better Access program. Early indications are that the two programs are providing complementary services and are working together to address a previously unmet need for mental health care.
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To determine the causes of death in Australians with type 1 diabetes mellitus who died aged 40 years or younger. ⋯ In deceased young people with type 1 diabetes examined by the Coroner, acute diabetic complications, unnatural causes, and sudden unexpected deaths were the predominant causes of death. The relatively high frequency of sudden unexpected deaths, such as dead-in-bed syndrome, requires further investigation.
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The Mood Assessment Program (MAP) is a computerised assessment and diagnostic program developed at the Black Dog Institute, Sydney, to assist with diagnostic subtyping and management of mood disorders. MAP decision rules capture the applied research, informed by clinical expertise, that has been undertaken over the past two decades. ⋯ The MAP provides a rich set of information to help the practitioner derive a broad formulation and so shape a management plan in conjunction with broad treatment guidelines. The program will be rolled out over the next 6 months as a formal evaluative tool for wide assessment and application by general practitioners, and subsequently to assist a broader range of health practitioners.