Message from the President
With the Federal Government still in caretaker mode and the outcome
of the Federal Election yet to be decided, support for the central role
of general practice in the health system should be the priority health
reform for any Australian government. Strong general practice will lead
to a fairer and more efficient health system.
Online QA&CPD points statements
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Guides
Reduced shelf life for Panvax H1N1 2009 Junior
The Department of Health and Ageing informed GPs that stability testing by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) of the pandemic influenza vaccine for children, Panvax H1N1 2009 Junior, has shown a decline in potency in the 0.25 ml pre-filled syringes. The safety of the vaccine has not been affected. As a result, the TGA has informed the manufacturer, CSL, that its registered 12 month shelf life can no longer be supported. Visit www.healthemergency.gov.au and www.immunise.health.gov.au.
Have you met your QA&CPD requirements for the 2008–2010 triennium?
It's the last year of the triennium, which means time is running out to meet your RACGP QA&CPD requirements. GPs need to accrue a minimum of 130 points, which incorporates two Category 1 activities, and 1 basic CPR course. To check your QA&CPD status, log on to the RACGP website to view your credit point statement. If you are yet to fulfil your minimum requirement, visit www.racgp.org.au/qacpd/calendar.
Assessment of overseas and Australian general practice experience
The next ‘practice eligible via experience' 2011 exam enrolment intake period will commence at 9.00 am AEST on Monday 18 October 2010 and close at 5.00 pm AEST on Friday 10 December 2010. If you wish to enrol and require an assessment of your general practice experience, we recommend you submit your application now. Please note that complete assessment applications for assessment of overseas and/or Australian general practice experience must be received before 5.00 pm on Friday 29 October 2010 to be considered for 2011 exam enrolment. Applications can be obtained from www.racgp.org.au/assessment/img and eligibility information is available at www.racgp.org.au/assessment/examination.
Additional general practice research grants now open
The RACGP Foundation is now offering two new research grants to RACGP GP or registrar members in the fields of general practice and motor vehicle related trauma (CONROD) and cancer research in primary care. Applications close midnight AEST 5 September 2010. Visit www.racgp.org.au/researchfoundation/grants.
GP10 – timeline for College day & photo competition
GP10, the RACGP and Australian Association of Practice Managers combined annual conference, will be held in Cairns from 6–9 October. College Day will take place on Wednesday 6 October. It will include the National Rural Faculty Annual General Meeting (8.00–9.00 am), the RACGP Annual General Meeting (9.30–11.00 am), Convocation (11.00 am to 12.30 pm) the Academic Session (3.00–6.00 pm) and Academic Session cocktails (6.00–7.30 pm). For more information, visit www.gp10.com.au/program.asp. We invite conference delegates, members and their families, medical students, practice staff and practice managers to participate in the GP10 Photo Competition. The theme is ‘Our Future' and entry to this competition is free. Entries close on Friday 27 August.
Distribution of PrimaryCare Sidebar™
The College received a positively overwhelming response from members who took up the PrimaryCare Sidebar™ as their early bird membership incentive – close to 3000 GPs selected it. Look out for your PrimaryCare Sidebar™ software and self installation instructions CD-ROM in the mail. Telephone the RACGP helpdesk 1800 284 789 should you need any assistance. Visit www.racgp.org.au/fridayfacts/38955#10
e-health podcast available
ABC Radio National - The Health Report has investigated the future of Australia's pursuit of electronic health records. The program provides a good overview of where Australia is at with e-health and what else needs to be done. To listen to the podcast, visit www.abc.net.au/rn/healthreport/default.htm.

Street drugs
The theme for the August issue of AFP is street drugs. This month's articles include Drug abuse, Prescription drug misuse, Opioid dependence, Cannabis and mental health – management in primary care & Party drugs – use and harm reduction

Managing musculoskeletal conditions in general practice
This activity overviews osteoporosis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It also explores three case studies which highlight key features of the management of people with musculoskeletal (musculoskeletal) conditions.

Early childhood oral health: case studies from general practice
Good oral health is essential for good general health and wellbeing. Health professionals, such as those in general practice, who have early contact with young families have a critical role in improving oral health outcomes.
