In Practice: Supporting cervical screening self-collection

This week’s In Practice also includes information on Faculty elections, a Tasmanian ‘meet and greet’ with RACGP President Dr Nicole Higgins, TGA advice on a new medicines’ shortage and a warning about mpox in Victoria.
 
Speculum sabbatical – Supporting self-collection for cervical screening
Webinar: Tuesday 15 August, 7.00 – 8.00 pm (AEST)
CPD: 1 EA hour
Cost: Free
 
Cervical screening can be uncomfortable for patients, leading to hesitancy and avoidance, but it is our most important tool as we work to eliminate cervical cancer in Australia.
 
By giving your speculum a sabbatical, you can offer a more patient-centred screening experience, eliminate discomfort, and improve screening rates.
 
Presented in partnership with the Department of Health and Aged Care’s National Cervical Screening Program, this webinar will equip GPs with the knowledge and skills to confidently guide patients through self-collection for cervical screening.
 
Presenters Dr Lara Roeske and Professor Deborah Bateson will provide resources, expert insights, and practical tips to help GPs support patients through self-collection and give them more control over their cervical health.
 
Register online.
 
Vigabatrin shortage
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) is working with Sanofi-Aventis Australia regarding a shortage of Sabril vigabatrin 500 mg tablets and oral sachets, which are used to treat serious epileptic conditions in adults and children.
 
The shortage was triggered by a global recall and the TGA is monitoring the supply shortage, which is expected to last until 30 September.
 
Nominations for 2023 Faculty elections remain open
The RACGP is calling on members to represent their community and help shape the future of general practice by nominating for the 2023 Faculty elections.
 
Faculty Councils play a pivotal role in representing members’ interests, influencing advocacy efforts and informing the work of RACGP faculties.
 
Nominations close on 18 August. For more information, including how to submit a nomination, visit the Faculty elections webpage.
 
Tasmanian ‘meet and greet’ with RACGP President
Date: Wednesday 6 September, 6.30 – 8.30 pm
Venue: The Story Bar – MACq01, 18 Hunter Street, Hobart
Cost: Free (registration essential)
 
Tasmanian members are invited to a special ‘meet and greet’ event with RACGP President Dr Nicole Higgins and Board members to hear updates on national projects and initiatives, ask questions and provide feedback.
 
This is a fantastic opportunity to share your experiences, represent your practices and amplify the voice of our members. Attendees can also reconnect and network with peers over delicious canapes and a selection of beverages.
             
For northern-based members unable to make the trip to Hobart, there will be an opportunity to meet the Board in Launceston in February 2024.
 
Register online.
 
Changes to HIV treatment for people without Medicare
In December 2021, the Federal Government announced free or subsidised HIV treatment for people who are not eligible for Medicare.
 
The scheme has recently come into effect across all states and territories, and under the new funding model, patients can now access free or subsidised treatment from hospital pharmacies or sexual health clinics, depending on which state or territory they live in.
 
The expansion is expected to benefit an estimated 1000 people currently living with HIV in Australia each year. 
 
The Australasian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexual Health Medicine website has more information for healthcare professionals, such as advice on referral pathways, to support them in providing best practice care.
 
Early detection of chronic liver disease
Webinar: Tuesday 15 August, 7.00 – 8.00 pm (AEST)
CPD: 1 EA hour
Cost: Free
 
This webinar will provide awareness and best practice advice around careful monitoring, prescribing and appropriate specialist referral of chronic liver disease. It will also highlight key considerations in cirrhosis management and explain how early diagnosis can help to improve patient outcomes.
 
It is the first of a three-part series presented in partnership with VCCC Alliance, with subsequent sessions due to take place on 29 August and 19 September.
 
Registrations and further information on the full series is available online.
 
Local transmission of mpox in Victoria
Two new locally acquired cases of mpox have been reported in Victoria.
 
Mpox continues to spread in many countries and people with symptoms should seek medical care and testing. Vaccination is also available for eligible people through certain sexual health clinics, hospitals and GPs, with two doses required for optimal protection.
 
Clinicians should test for mpox in all patients presenting with compatible symptoms, in particular those presenting with a genital rash, lesions, or proctitis.
 
Any suspected or confirmed mpox case must be urgently notified to the Department of Health on 1300 651 160.
 
Medicine in South Africa tour
Join Jon Baines Tours on the new family-friendly Medicine in South Africa tour. Led by Dr Matt Young, the tour reveals the many faces of this beautiful and diverse land while giving attendees fascinating insight into South Africa’s medicine, culture, history, wildlife and landscapes.
 
Book your place online.
 
Log in below to join the conversation.

cervical cancer medicines shortage mpox self-collection