#197 Doing More with Less with Dr Ed Poliness

In a time when lettuce costs are skyrocketing and healthcare access is slipping out of reach for  many, how can GPs continue to deliver excellent care with dwindling resources? In this compelling conversation, Dr. Rob Park speaks with Dr. Edmund Poliness — medical director of Wathaurong Aboriginal Medical Service and GP at The Living Room in Melbourne — about how to do more with less. Ed takes us inside the world of homeless healthcare, where the clinical gold standard often meets real-world constraints. From adapting chronic disease management to improvising physio with peer supports and printouts, this episode is packed with creative, practical ways to stretch your care further. You'll also hear about the importance of team-based care, warm handovers, and building trust with patients who face complex social and health barriers — all while staying grounded, compassionate, and resourceful. Whether you work in a city clinic or a regional practice, this episode is a must-listen for any GP navigating cost pressures and rising patient need. It's an inspiring look at how thoughtful medicine, community partnerships, and a little bit of creativity can still go a long way — even on a tight budget! ... If you find this podcast valuable then subscribing, sharing, rating it 5 stars and leaving a review is appreciated. If you would like to request a topic, please contact us via thegpshow.com or [email protected]  Thank you for listening and your support. ...  Job opportunity: Are you a GP, psychiatrist or nurse based in Sydney interested in mental health and whole of person health care?  Exciting job opportunities have come up, please contact Dr Sam Manger for more [email protected]  Interested in whole of person clinical practice and research that addresses the lifestyle and social determinants of illness and wellbeing?  Check out the JCU postgraduate courses: Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma, and Master in Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Sam Manger on YouTube: Using lifestyle as medicine: A new era in chronic disease remission Our 3 week online microcredential in Lifestyle Medicine and Mental Health: Life and Mind available here.