Clin Med
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This one-day conference brought together around 100 doctors from a wide range of specialties and at different stages of their careers to examine areas that are of increasing importance to the profession as a whole. Information gathered and imparted to institutions such as the postgraduate deaneries, royal colleges and specialist societies will add to the impetus for cultural and organisational changes so that the real potential of doctors working less than full time is not lost to the economy, NHS or patients.
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A survey of 445 doctors in Yorkshire was conducted to ascertain their knowledge and awareness of alcohol units. Only 58% had some knowledge, and general practitioners scored better (69%) than hospital doctors (45%). ⋯ Junior doctors who often deal with alcohol-related problems in their day-to-day hospital work had a poor knowledge. There needs to be a greater emphasis on alcohol and alcohol-related problems (including how to calculate alcohol units) in undergraduate and postgraduate curricula to improve doctors' knowledge and awareness of this important subject.
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The primary antibody deficiency syndromes are a rare group of immunodeficiencies where diagnostic delay remains common due to limited awareness of the existence and heterogeneity of their presenting features. Referral for specialist assessment leads to earlier diagnosis and appropriate therapy to prevent or limit structural organ and tissue damage. Greater education of healthcare professionals is required to ensure prompt recognition and referral to specialists with expertise in the care of primary immunodeficiencies, especially since study of these rare conditions is a minor part of undergraduate and general postgraduate training. Greater awareness would lead to reduced morbidity, improved quality of life and survival outcomes in this patient group.
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This is a report of a Royal College of Physicians-sponsored study visit to the U. K. The 'Taking knowledge overseas' scheme enables promising, talented and motivated physicians to have access to high-quality postgraduate educational experience early in their career which will stimulate learning and encourage them to share good practice and knowledge on their return home. By the end of 2008, 26 doctors from low-income countries had benefited from the programme.