Australian Anaesthesia

In this episode, I talk about the environmental impact of oral versus intravenous paracetamol. It accompanies a really 'cool' poster in the September 2026 edition of Australian Anaesthetist.Download the September 26 Australian Anaesthetist here.Similar podcast episodes:Ep69. Talking TRA2SH with Dr Jess DaviesEp119. Sharps Waste AuditEp114. Measuring Nitrous Oxide LeaksSome AI generated notes:Key TakeawaysOral paracetamol is clinically equivalent to IV formulation for postoperative analgesia, making the switch a low-risk, evidence-based practice changeEnvironmental impact is substantial: switching from IV to oral could reduce carbon emissions by 45-68 times per dose when accounting for full lifecycle and disposalImplementation barriers are behavioral rather than clinical. Awareness, institutional protocols, and prescriber engagement are critical success factorsPractical strategies include data-driven audits of current IV usage, standardized prescribing pathways through pre-admission clinics or day-of-admission nursing protocols, and standing orders in private facilitiesScale matters: 50 million eligible patients across three countries means individual practice changes compound into globally significant environmental and economic impactQuotable Moments"When you take into account disposal of the ampoules and all the associated packaging, and remember those glass bottles often require high temperature incineration, then IV paracetamol generates 45 to 68 times the amount of emissions compared to oral paracetamol.""We know oral paracetamol is cheaper. We know it's better for the environment. And we know it's just as effective as IV paracetamol. But we're not prescribing it for our patients.""Knowing your data is such a powerful motivator."

I chat with Dr Evan Kumarakurusingham, an anaesthesia trainee who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as a child. We explore how this has influenced his approach to patients, decision to pursue anaesthesia his approach to training and exams.This episode emphasises the importance of representation, peer support and being proactive about maintaining good health.Other episodes you might like are:Ep115 on the ASA's wellbeing offerings with Dr Lan-Hoa LeEp23 Peer Groups with Dr Kushlani StevensonEp108 The importance of having a good GP with A/Prof Magda SimonisAll of these episodes and more can be found on the Wellbeing of Anaesthetists playlistInterested in more chats on nutrition and exercise? Let me know on [email protected] AI generated episode highlights:03:40: Evan describes his diabetes diagnosis at age 8 in Sri Lanka, noting it was later than typical for his Tamil Sri Lankan ethnicity, and the challenges of managing insulin with syringes and vials in a low socioeconomic area.07:50: Evan discusses his denial phase from ages 16-22, when he pushed diabetes to the back of his mind, followed by reassessment and goal-setting that shaped his current maturity and approach to self-management.08:52: Evan explains how a major hospital admission unrelated to diabetes in his mid-20s prompted him to reconsider his career path, ultimately leading to medicine after initially leaning toward the arts.09:33: Evan reveals how his experiences as a chronic illness patient informed his desire to become a compassionate clinician, allowing him to understand patient frustrations and connect with those in denial about their conditions.10:31: Evan discusses his practice of disclosing his diabetes to patients, particularly those about to undergo anaesthesia, using it as a rapport-building tool and challenging the old medical school teaching against personal disclosure.18:05: Evan credits meeting Professor David Story, a type 1 diabetic and President of the college, as a pivotal moment that solidified his confidence that he could succeed in anaesthesia.18:52: Evan outlines his exam preparation strategy, using short one-hour study blocks with scheduled breaks for eating and exercise, prioritizing glucose stability over marathon study sessions.22:29: Evan emphasizes the importance of having a good regular GP and creating a long-term plan early in training to manage stress-related impacts on chronic illness during high-pressure periods.24:27: Evan discusses future flexibility post-specialization, noting that avoiding consecutive night shifts will be crucial for managing his diabetes, as nights significantly disrupt glucose levels for a week afterward.Key TakeawaysChronic illness can be a catalyst for empathy and patient-centered practice; early healthcare experiences shape clinicians' values and professional identity before formal medical training begins.Career planning must account for individual health needs; eliminating unsuitable specialties based on realistic self-assessment is strategic, not limiting.Representation matters profoundly—seeing senior colleagues like Professor Story successfully managing diabetes in prestigious roles provides concrete evidence that ambitious goals are achievable.Proactive health management during high-stress periods (exams, rotations) requires structured planning around nutrition, exercise, and glucose monitoring, not sacrificing these essentials for study time.Modern disclosure practices differ from older medical culture; building rapport with patients through authentic connection, including selective sharing of relevant personal experiences, enhances therapeutic relationships.Quotable Moments"I think that you have to be really good with people and a really strong communicator to be able to take someone who's probably at one of the most scariest times in their life and then in the shortest amount of time, make them comfortable with the fact that you will be making them unconscious.""I didn't want the condition to be a reason why I couldn't do something because there's so many amazing people who have diabetes, Olympians, for example, that don't let it stop them.""If you look after your diabetes, regularly check your sugars, you'll probably end up being healthier in the long run than someone without it, assuming that your sugars are normal. Because it's always something that you're thinking about rather than something that you just think once every three months.""If you do have diabetes or a chronic illness, I think anaesthesia is a fantastic specialty and something that you should definitely consider and not rule out."

Make a pledge with me to try and stop using the S word! Can you guess what it might be? Who better to talk us through the evidence against using nocebo language and the power of suggestion than anaesthetist and expert in clinical hypnosis, Associate Professor Allan Cyna. A/Prof Cyna is the Director of the Advanced Training in Clinical Hypnosis run by the South Australian Society of Hypnosis. I drill down on his journey from a transformative lecture during medical school to becoming a leading expert. We discuss the evidence, delve into my failures and his successes with hypnotic suggestion and even ponder whether this is all just woo woo. I mention the overlap with psychology and refer to this episode on Ep118 on Trauma Informed Care with psychologist Brigette Berry.I specifically discuss using hypnotic suggestion for children in Ep55 with Drs Annette Webb and James Auld.Find A/Prof Allan Cyna's talk from the 2025 National Scientific Congress here (in September). You'll need to be an ASA member to gain access.Interested in learning hypnosis? Find more information here, as well as the articles we discuss. Feel free to communicate your thoughts on the podcast with me! email [email protected] AI generated notes:Episode Highlights00:02:45: Cyna's pivotal medical school experience with a senior anaesthetist demonstrating hypnotic phenomena, including arm anaesthesia and age regression, which sparked his lifelong interest in hypnosis.00:06:30: Introduction of the concept of "nocebo language"—negative perceptual suggestions like "this will sting"—and their evidence-based harmful effects on patient anxiety and pain scores.00:08:15: Discussion of the landmark 2007 Women's and Children's Hospital study showing reduced vocalizations and arm movements when avoiding the word "sting" during drip insertion.00:15:20: Explanation that 95% of anesthetic hypnosis involves conversational hypnosis rather than formal induction, with patients naturally vulnerable to suggestion when anxious.00:22:40: Cyna's PhD research demonstrating increased hypnotisability in pregnant women due to neurobiological changes that facilitate dissociation during labor.00:28:15: Case study of a postpartum woman with massive hematoma who underwent two-hour surgery using only hypnosis and fentanyl, developing lower body anesthesia through guided imagination.00:32:00: Practical recommendations for immediate implementation: listen for inadvertent negative suggestions in your own speech and focus on explaining the meaning behind procedures rather than predicting perceptual experiences.Key Takeaways1. Eliminate negative perceptual language ("sting," "sharp," "hurt") from clinical communication; five randomized trials confirm this reduces pain scores and anxiety without additional intervention. 2. Conversational hypnosis occurs naturally when patients are anxious—healthcare providers can harness this vulnerability therapeutically through positive suggestion rather than inadvertently through nocebo effects.3. Reframe procedures by explaining their purpose and meaning rather than predicting how they will feel, allowing patients to experience sensations without imposed expectations.4. Children aged 4-10 possess particular hypnotic susceptibility due to their natural imaginative and make-believe capacities; simple dissociation techniques (using "the arm" instead of "your arm") are highly effective.5. Formal hypnosis training requires 4-5 years to achieve true fluency, but meaningful clinical benefits begin within the first one or two course weekends through understanding and applying basic principles.Quotable Moments"If you can do an intervention that doesn't cost anything, but it could improve outcomes and there's no real side effects, then why not give it a go?""We actually did one of the first studies at the Women's and Children's with drip insertion...people who used the negative perceptual language had more vocalisations of pain, more movements of the arm.""In our daily lives, we're in and out of a hypnotic state maybe two or three hundred times a day...it frees the mind up to do logical things.""I don't think people could function in the world if they didn't have this ability to utilise hypnosis...about 90% of people will respond in some helpful way with standard techniques."

I am so grateful to Dr Gaby Bolton for taking time out of her exam preparation to have this conversation with me. Not only has she spent the last 6 years training in anaesthesia but she was also the lead applicant in a landmark class action lawsuit against Peninsula Health over unpaid overtime. Her journey began in 2020 as the HMO Society President, representing her peers as they sought a uniform allowance as they faced the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr Bolton took on significant professional and personal risks, and made huge efforts to support others. She spent months preparing for trial and endured days of cross examination in the witness box. It comes as no surprise that all of this, plus the media attention that ensued took a toll on her exam preparations. I am so pleased to announce that Dr Bolton has passed all exams! Dr Bolton also shares some great insights into performance anxiety and what drives her to advocate for those unable to speak up for themselves. A true inspiration!Our March 2026 edition of Australian Anaesthetist is all about advocacy. Read it here. Other podcasts you might be interested in:Ep115. How the ASA can support youEp64. If you've failed examsEp84. If you're navigating AhpraBuy your discounted ASA scrubs here (login required).Some AI generated notes:Episode Highlights 00:02:15: I congratulate Dr. Bolton on passing her exams and contextualise why I delayed publishing this episode, setting up the significance of her journey00:04:45: Dr Bolton explains the catalyst for the class action—a refused $8.87 weekly uniform allowance during the pandemic when junior doctors were required to wear scrubs to protect families00:09:30: Legal firm Hayden Stephens approaches Dr Bolton after an AMA survey, warning her of potential career damage and requesting her to be the lead applicant for Peninsula Health00:15:20: Bolton describes her meticulous documentation process, creating dossiers of two years of work records including pay slips, rosters, WhatsApp chats, and car park records for legal evidence00:22:40: The trial is scheduled for June 2022, just six weeks before Bolton's primary exam, creating significant stress during her introductory training time00:28:15: Bolton spends three-and-a-half days in the witness box, undergoing intensive trial preparation with barristers and facing cross- examination that challenges her authority as a junior doctor00:35:50: A barrister questions Bolton's use of "my patients," implying she lacks authority; she responds by articulating the reality of junior doctor responsibility and accessibility00:42:30: Bolton fails her primary exam four to five weeks after the trial, attributing it partly to performance anxiety that has affected her since age nine00:48:15: Bolton discusses how performance anxiety only affects her in high-stakes personal evaluations, not in clinical emergencies or advocacy work for others00:54:00: Bolton ultimately passes her primary exam in October 2024, with support from mentors who had also failed multiple times01:01:20: Discussion of media involvement post-settlement, including media training and how Bolton balanced public advocacy with exam preparation01:07:45: I ask about Dr Bolton's future interest in medical politics and wellbeing advocacy; Bolton reflects that advocacy "usually finds her" rather than being a deliberate choiceKey Takeaways Systemic injustice requires individual courage: Bolton's decision to become the lead applicant, despite explicit warnings of career damage, demonstrates that protecting vulnerable colleagues, particularly IMGs reliant on supervisor sign-offs, sometimes requires personal sacrifice from those with more privilege or securityMeticulous preparation mitigates risk: Bolton's obsessive documentation and organisation, combined with professional legal support and intensive trial preparation, enabled her to withstand three-and-a-half days of cross-examination and emerge credibly despite being a junior doctor facing institutional powerPerformance anxiety is context-dependent and treatable: Bolton's insight that anxiety affects personal evaluations but not clinical emergencies reveals the psychological distinction between ego-threat and external responsibility; reframing exams as service to patients rather than self-judgment may help traineesPeer support and realistic mentorship matter more than false reassurance: Bolton valued mentors who acknowledged uncertainty ("I don't have a crystal ball") over well-meaning colleagues offering hollow guarantees; normalising exam failure and creating space for multiple attempts reduces shame and isolationAdvocacy often emerges from proximity to injustice: Bolton's journey from HMO representative to class action lead applicant to potential future medical politician illustrates how systemic problems, combined with individual values and opportunity, can reshape career trajectories toward advocacyQuotable Moments "I think they went around every single loophole they could to get out of paying something that wouldn't cover even a half a pair of scrubs to people to protect their families.""I felt at the time, maybe it was a little bit self-destructive and maybe has been in some ways, but I thought, well, I'm in a position to do it. It's something I think I'm capable of. It's something that I think I won't suffer consequences as badly as probably some other people would. And somebody has to do it.""They are totally your patients... I'm the one that's doing all their paperwork, putting all their drips in, changing all the medicines, talking to their families that no one's called for three days.""It doesn't affect me in anything except something that I value as affecting me personally. I've never had it at work in no way in any emergencies of work. It doesn't come up when it involves doing things for other people. But as soon as it becomes really personal and a direct judgment on me; it hadn't happened for a really long time."

In this episode I chat with Sydney General Practitioner and social media expert, Dr Maria Li on the best practices for doctors on social media. Dr Li has created tonnes of content, collaborated with over 100 professionals and organisations and is a member of the WHO's global FIDES network.We focus on 5 key principles for responsible social media use because I would love to see more doctors being a credible source of accurate information for patients on social media.I encourage you to look at the other content we produce and let me know what you think!YouTubeLinkedInFacebookInstagramTikTokBlueskyUseful articles from Ahpra and Dr Li:Ahpra social media guidanceSocial media is mediaPopularity is not respectYour posts should reflect your judgementNever make fun of patientsComments count as contentSome AI generated notes:Episode Highlights00:02:15: Maria Li explains how she started an Instagram account during lockdown in 2020 out of boredom, initially posting bland health promotion content that unexpectedly grew into a major passion project.00:05:30: Maria discusses her organic collaboration approach—reaching out to subject matter experts on social media to co-create content, offering graphic design services as an incentive, and iterating through multiple drafts before publishing.00:08:45: Maria describes joining the WHO's global network of social media influencers, explaining how centralised health messaging proved insufficient against decentralised misinformation on social platforms.00:12:00: Maria establishes the foundational principle that social media is media—a public broadcast stage, not intimate conversation—using the example of a Victorian doctor deregistered by AHPRA for posting negative commentary about gay, Chinese, and Muslim people.00:16:30: Maria explains how social media algorithms amplify content triggering outrage, fear, and anger, creating a trap where doctors unconsciously drift toward sensationalism.00:22:15: Maria provides the example of a nurse who went viral crying in a hospital corridor after a patient death, only to face intense backlash for appearing to exploit the tragedy for engagement.00:28:45: Maria warns against making fun of patients through role-plays and mocking videos, citing the Santa Barbara urgent care clinic staff who were terminated after posting videos laughing at patient bodily fluids.00:35:20: Maria addresses patient privacy concerns, explaining that identifiers extend beyond names to include tattoos, distinctive features, and contextual details that could enable identification even without explicit consent.00:42:00: Maria illustrates how comments are public content through the example of "Dr. Jane," an obstetrician who received a formal complaint after arguing heatedly in a local Facebook mums group00:48:30: Maria emphasizes that following trends exhausts creators and confuses audiences.Key TakeawaysTreat every social media post as a televised interview with your name and credentials displayed—the regulatory standard for online behavior mirrors in-person professional conduct.Prioritize credibility and respect over viral engagement; algorithms reward emotional arousal and controversy, but this conflicts with building sustainable professional reputations.Comments, screenshots, and deleted content remain permanent evidence; assume all social media activity is discoverable and can trigger formal regulatory complaints or reputational damage.Quality and authenticity matter far more than posting frequency; doctors can build loyal followings by staying true to their genuine interests rather than chasing algorithmic trends.Patient privacy extends beyond names to distinctive features, contextual details, and even background appearances; when in doubt, obtain explicit consent or increase anonymization.Quotable Moments"Social media is media. That's the principle. Social media is actually really good at fooling us into thinking that it's intimate and it's personal.""The moment you do post, you actually completely lose control of who sees your content. Kind of like a radio interview. Once you say what you say, you have no idea who's listening.""Before you make a post I want you to actually ask yourself this question: would I say this on TV with my name and my job title on the screen? If the answer is no why would you say it on social media?""Attention doesn't equal respect. Attention doesn't equal credibility. So that's what I mean when I say popularity isn't respect.""You don't need to win arguments online. People get really up in arms about winning an argument against someone they've never met. You don't need to. You can just walk away.""Your superpower is whatever you genuinely care about, even when nobody's watching. Create what you're passionate about and you don't need to attract an audience. They will find you."

In this episode I chat with Dr Yasmin Endlich, Medical Director at webAIRS, web based Anaesthesia Incident Reporting System. We currently have over 13,000 reports in webAIRS, making it one of the world's largest incident reporting systems.We chat about the various analyses (currently over 30 underway!), what's happening behind the scenes and how we will be discussing de-identified incident reports at the up and coming Australian Society of Anaesthetists M&M meeting. I also couldn't help discussing safety-II principles - examining what went right to prevent harm rather than only analysing failures.Three action items to consider:Come to the next ASA M&M meeting! 29th June 2026. Complimentary registration for ASA members. Register or find the next event hereJoin webAIRS user, if you haven't already. Any anaesthetist or trainee member of the ASA is eligible. Report your incidents. Including the near misses. Help us better develop a safety-II approachThree more podcasts on webAIRS:Ep54. webAIRS with Prof Martin CulwickEp57. webAIRS: Lingual Nerve InjuryEp79. webAIRS: Jaw DislocationSome AI generated notes:Key TakeawayswebAIRS is the world's largest anesthetic incident reporting system with over 13,000 reports, enabling rare event analysis and evidence-based safety improvements across Australia and New Zealand.Safety-II methodology—analysing what went right in near misses and no-harm events—offers a complementary approach to traditional incident analysis and may drive more effective safety interventionsImplementation science remains underdeveloped in anaesthesia. Most institutions adapt to safety recommendations but rarely publish their implementation processes, limiting knowledge sharing and replicationwebAIRS supports institutional M&M programs through anonymous, de-identified case access with categorization tools. ASA is launching exclusive member M&M events using webAIRS dataRegistration with webAIRS offers dual benefits: self-reflection and learning for individual reporters, plus contribution to community-wide safety analysis. Reporting is legally privileged, anonymous, and eligible for CPD creditQuotable Moments"We understand that the health system is a complex beast, which we as humans are constantly adapting and adjusting or creating workarounds to keep things safe for our patients and usually efficient as well.""We report a lot. So the numbers of our reports are there. Then they get assessed. But the reporting back and then looking at systems and then looking how to improve things and going up the pyramid to reduce adverse events, that's basically where it stops in most healthcare areas.""It's not only important for oneself when you report as it's a part of self-reflection. It is a part of working through an incident yourself as well. But it also benefits the wider community.""We don't want is anybody who has reported an incident feel like, oh, we are not treating the data safely. We 100% are. And it will stay anonymous and it will stay completely de-identifiable as well."

In this episode, I'm reviewing an article that was published in the April 2026 Anaesthesia and Intensive Care journal (AIC). It's all about sharps waste management! A snapshot (literally) on what we are placing in our sharps bins and whether there is any room for improvement (spoiler alert - yes, there is plenty!). I also share some insights from my Sabbatical in Switzerland.This podcast accompanies the poster designed by Dr Nathan Chin in the June 2026 Australian Anaesthetist magazine. Download your free copy here.To read the scientific paper from AICm click here. You may need your ASA login to access it.Three more episodes you might want to listen to:Ep69. Talking TRA2SH - trainee led research into sustainability in healthcare with Dr Jess DaviesEp96. Introducing Prof Philip Peyton, new editor in chief at Anaesthesia and Intensive CareEp114. Laughing Gas, Serious Waste: Measuring Nitrous Wastage with Dr Ethan FitzclarenceSome AI generated notes:Episode Highlights00:00:30: Introduction to the sharps bin contamination study from April 2026 Anesthesia and Intensive Care journal, featuring artwork by anaesthesia trainee Dr. Nathan Chin00:02:15: Sharps waste disposal costs 30 times more than general waste, with incineration producing 10 times the carbon footprint of regular waste disposal00:04:45: UK data shows sharps disposal produces 50 times more carbon dioxide emissions compared to recycling00:06:30: Zurich, Switzerland example demonstrating the "polluter pays principle" through mandatory tax-added garbage bags and strict recycling enforcement00:10:20: Study methodology involved photographing sharps bins and counting non-sharps contamination across multiple hospital sites00:12:45: Key finding: 79.5% of non-sharps items could theoretically be recycled, but only 18% could realistically be recycled with current hospital infrastructure00:15:30: Most common sharps bin contaminants include glass vials (propofol bottles), plastic syringes without needles, IV lines, endotracheal tubes, and single-use stainless steel instruments00:18:15: Only 19% of surveyed hospitals can recycle plastic syringes and one-third can recycle plastic ampoules, with glove recycling available at only one surveyed siteKey TakeawaysHealthcare waste management practices significantly lag behind residential recycling standards; implementing systematic segregation at point of use could dramatically reduce environmental impact and costsPolicy presence alone does not ensure compliance—hospitals must invest in infrastructure, education, and accountability systems to translate waste management guidelines into operational realityIndividual clinician behaviour change is achievable and impactful; simple actions like detaching needles from syringes before disposal can redirect substantial waste from expensive sharps streamsHospitals should audit their recycling capabilities and partner with waste management providers to expand options for plastic syringes, glass vials, and metal instruments currently defaulting to sharps binsQuotable Moments"Sharps bin waste is the most expensive waste to get rid of, both from an economic perspective and also in terms of the impact on our environment.""Getting rid of sharps waste could be 30 times more expensive than getting rid of general waste. 30 times!""Sharpe's disposal, the autoclaving crushing landfill type of disposal, produces 50 times the amount of carbon dioxide emission compared to recycling. 50 times. Whoa.""We buy stuff, we open endless amounts of packaging and we don't think about how or how much it's going to cost to dispose of it.""Nearly 80% or four in five items could have been recycled for perhaps one 50th of the carbon footprint. That is astounding."

In this episode, I explore trauma informed care with expert clinical psychologist Brigette Berry who specialises in acute and chronic pain. We examine five core principles of Fallot and Harris (2009): safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration and empowerment.Trauma informed care benefits all patients, not just those who have disclosed trauma. For example, many women may have undisclosed trauma, children and neurodivergent people could all benefit from the application of these principles.Brigette recommends the Blue Knot Foundation for support and further training.Three other episodes of the Australian Anaesthesia podcast you might enjoy listening to are:Ep55. Hypnotising children! with Drs Annette Webb and James AuldEp60. Communicate like a Boss with Dr Andrea WojnickiEp83. The Women's Empowerment and Leadership Initiative (WELI) with Prof Nina Deutsch & A/Prof Larry SchwartzLet me know if you're interested in the Blue Knot training or any other feedback: [email protected] AI generated notes:Episode Highlights00:02:15: Suzi introduces the concept of non-technical skills as essential core competencies for good doctoring, noting that anaesthetists can inadvertently contribute to patient trauma through insensitive communication.00:05:30: Bridgette defines trauma using DSM-5 criteria as experiencing a literal or perceived threat to life, and notes that general anaesthesia itself may constitute a perceived threat to self.00:08:45: Discussion of statistics showing one in three women have experienced interpersonal violence, emphasising the prevalence of trauma in patient populations without requiring explicit disclosure.00:12:20: Explanation of the five trauma-informed care principles from Fallot and Harris (2009): safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, and empowerment.00:15:00: Practical safety applications including physical environment modifications (lighting, noise reduction), narrating procedures, and obtaining consent for physical contact.00:22:30: Bridgette highlights unconscious behaviours in healthcare settings, such as lifting blankets without introduction or consent, demonstrating how small actions affect emotional safety.00:28:15: Discussion of preoperative communication using positive language and imagery to support post-operative recovery and self-efficacy, referencing hypnosis-based communication techniques.00:35:40: Bridgette introduces the COPE AHEAD skill from dialectical behaviour therapy as an evidence-based framework for imagined rehearsal and coping strategy preparation.00:42:00: Emphasis on maintaining professional boundaries and respectful containment as essential components of trustworthiness, alongside being curious about fostering safety.00:45:15: Bridgette recommends Blue Knot Foundation training and resources as practical tools for implementing trauma-informed care in healthcare settings.Key TakeawaysTrauma-informed care is universal best practice applicable to all patients, not only those with disclosed trauma histories, and benefits neurodivergent individuals and children equally.Simple acts of narration, consent-seeking, and signposting (e.g., "I'm about to put the drip in") significantly reduce threat perception and build emotional safety without requiring additional time.Anaesthetists have a powerful preoperative role in setting positive post-operative outcomes through clear expectations, anxiety reduction, and empowering communication that improves both physical recovery and patient trust in healthcare systems.Individualisation within a trauma-informed framework is essential; clinicians should remain flexible and responsive to patient cues, recognising that some patients may find excessive choice overwhelming while others require it.Professional development training through organisations like Blue Knot Foundation provides practical, evidence-based tools for implementation, and adopting these principles requires ongoing humility and willingness to unlearn and relearn practices.Quotable Moments"There is always something more to learn, something more I can improve upon.""One in three women have experienced some type of interpersonal violence, as an example. So if we think about one in three patients that we see for anaesthetic procedures, you know, there's a high proportion of those who experience traumatic events.""Re-traumatisation is a very real thing. And I guess when we go through the principles, I can dive in slightly further. But we know, especially for those who have been through the more kind of chronic, prolonged, inescapable traumas, that are cumulative, we're less likely to feel safe within our own bodies.""Even if we're asking the question of, is there anything else we can do in this space within reason that could make you more comfortable? That's really therapeutic than just not asking and making the person feel like they can't advocate for anything.""It's the spirit of cooperation. So that may have to involve negotiation for the specific person in front of me.""Being curious about how can I foster more safety. I think training, professional development training within your setting is really, really helpful.""It's very humbling though, I will say, working in a trauma-informed way. So there's always stuff to learn unlearn, relearn, you know, and it's about humbling ourselves enough to be okay with that process because it makes us better clinicians and then it gives our patients a better experience."

In this episode I chat with Dr Mark Priestley, Chair of the Leadership and Management Special Interest Group (LAMSIG), Australian Salaried Medical Officers Federation (ASMOF) NSW and ANZCA Councillor.We are chatting about one of my favourite topics – leadership!We go through my 4 part leadership curriculum, the importance of identifying core personal values, his work based on the book “Crucial Conversations” and navigating media when speaking out.Want to continue discussing leadership?Listen to Episode 83 where I chat with Professor Nina Deutsch and Assoc Prof Larry Schwarz about the Women’s Empowerment and Leadership InitiativeDr Priestley hosts a leadership and management discussion at the ASA’s 2025 National Scientific Congress (NSC). The videos from the 2025 NSC are due out in August. ASA members can access them here.The leadership collection of the Australian Anaesthesia podcast can be found on the LAMSIG webpage.Find out more about AUS-NZ WELI and apply to join here.Some AI generated notes:Episode Highlights00:02:15: Assoc Prof Suzi Nou introduces WELI (Women's Empowerment and Leadership Initiative), a mentorship program matching emerging leaders with advisors, designed to address the underrepresentation of women in senior anaesthesia roles.00:05:30: Mark Priestley discusses how leadership became his passion after joining the tripartite ASA/ANZCA/NZSA Leadership Special Interest Group five years ago, discovering that leadership development is largely absent from medical training.00:12:45: Priestley describes the AFRACMA (Affiliated Royal College of Medical Administrators) course as valuable for understanding healthcare management, finance, and difficult conversations, delivered as half-day fortnightly sessions over six months.00:18:20: Mark explains his transition to Head of Department at Westmead Hospital after six months’ sabbatical, emphasizing that effective leadership combines both strategic vision and day-to-day management.00:28:40: Discussion of ASMOF (Australian Salary and Medical Officers Federation) and Priestley's advocacy for improved working conditions in New South Wales, noting that unions thrive when organisational leadership fails.00:35:15: Mark addresses concerns about speaking publicly on contentious issues, recommending transparency with stakeholders and clear communication about media appearances to avoid ambush situations.00:42:00: Suzi presents a four-part leadership curriculum: self-knowledge, communication and negotiation, strategic thinking and political context, and mentoring the next generation.00:48:30: Mark emphasizes the importance of identifying core personal values and "ratcheting down the moral compass" to guide decisions when facing conflicting priorities.00:55:45: Priestley describes his workshop on difficult conversations, based on the book "Crucial Conversations," delivered specifically to anaesthetists with clinically relevant scenarios.01:08:20: Mark discusses the inaugural Heads of Department networking day (H2H), designed as a forum for senior leaders to discuss challenging scenarios and share expertise.01:15:30: Priestley announces his transition from Head of Department to ANZCA Council member and ASA PIAC (Professional Issues Advisory Committee) representative, continuing his leadership contribution at a broader level.Key TakeawaysLeadership development should begin early and continue throughout your career; it's not a single destination but a continuous learning cycle involving reflection, feedback-seeking, and strategic growth.Self-awareness is the foundational prerequisite for all other leadership skills—you cannot effectively manage others or navigate complex situations without first understanding your own values, strengths, and limitations.Difficult conversations are a core leadership competency that can be learned and improved through deliberate practice; avoiding them creates long-term organizational dysfunction and erodes influence.Strategic focus requires saying "no" to good opportunities to concentrate on two or three truly important priorities; attempting everything leads to failure and burnout.Formal credentials and titles matter less than demonstrated competence, authentic communication, and the ability to build trust with stakeholders across hierarchical levels.Quotable Moments"Once you've finished your training, whether it be in anaesthesia or another area completely outside of medicine, then most of your career development will be made in the area of leadership.""If you don't know yourself, you can't manage yourself, you can't manage yourself, you can't manage others.""The big decisions are not what you're going to do, but what you're not going to do, like deliberately actively decide to put on a back burner because the common mistake is to try too much.""If you think the good stuff means they're talking about you, then you have to accept that maybe the bad stuff means they're talking about you and sometimes you're better off ignoring the commentary, you know, full stop.""Unions thrive when the corporation or the organisational leadership is failing. And I think that's what's happening in New South Wales."

I chat with Dr David Borshoff about the latest edition of the Anaesthetic Crisis Manual. This edition includes a new 'Prevention' section, collaboration with Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and comes out in 2 versions: International and North American.As an ASA member, you are eligible for a FREE(!) or discounted Manual. Contact [email protected] for more details.Not a member? Find out about more benefits of being a member here:https://asa.org.au/types-of-membershipKey TakeawaysCognitive aids like the Anesthetic Crisis Manual reduce cognitive load and anxiety during crises by providing systematic reassurance rather than replacing clinical judgment.Simplicity in crisis management protocols requires substantial effort— Dr Borshoff spent nine months updating the fourth edition with fellowship-level study commitment to distill information to essential directives.Team communication and psychological safety are critical; the anaesthetic technician's willingness to speak up during Dr Borshoff's front-of-neck access directly contributed to patient survival.Passion projects and creative outlets in medicine maintain professional engagement and curiosity, preventing burnout while advancing patient safety and departmental culture.Accessibility matters: offering manuals free to trainees and discounted to members embeds cognitive aid culture into the profession from early career stages.Quotable Moments"None of us are infallible 100% of the time.""When you're cognitively loaded, you want to be making as few decisions as possible so that you can stick to the big stuff.""The crisis manual is there to support the clinical acumen and the decision making of the doctor. It's not the other way around.""If you've got something that you're passionate about, then you're prepared to do the work and you don't realise how many hours are ticking away while you're doing it.""Why don't you just do it properly, doc?" — The anaesthetic technician's intervention that broke Borshoff's fixation error during emergency front-of-neck access.Some other episodes you might enjoy:Ep25. The Anaesthetic Crisis Manual with Dr David BorshoffEp78. AMAX4 - a cognitive aid for anaphylaxis with Dr Ben McKenzieFind the Anaesthetic Crisis Manual and other Crisis Manuals here: https://leeuwinpress.com.au/ We welcome any feedback: [email protected]

We have a new wellbeing webpage!In this episode I chat with Dr Lan-Hoa Le, Chair of the ASA's Wellbeing Advocates Committee. She has been busy curating a webpage with a tonne of useful resources from crisis helplines, peer support programs and mindfulness training. There is something there for everyone, whether you or a colleague would appreciate some confidential support, you are interested in supporting others or you already have a well established interest and role in developing wellbeing in the workplace.We welcome all anaesthetists and those that support us to visit the webpage, regardless of your ASA membership status. You can find it here.Everymind's guide to language and suicideEp33. Substance use disorder: A personal perspective with Dr Colin BairdEp84. Ahpra with AMA Policy Manager Nick ElmittDonate to or seek assistance from the ASA Benevolent Fund.

Who likes the idea of excessive waste in healthcare? Especially when it is something that can impact our colleagues and has negative climate effects?In this episode I chat with Dr Ethan Fitzclarence, from Perth, Western Australia about an audit he conducted as part of his anaesthetic training. He discovered an astounding amount of nitrous oxide was being leaked to the atmosphere. We discuss his methodology, the health impacts of nitrous oxide waste and the growing movement to toward decommissioning pipeline systems in favour of cylinder-based delivery.Read our Joint Statement on decommissioning nitrous oxide medical gas pipeline systems.For this work, Dr Fitzclarence won the Nerida Dilworth prize - congratulations! Find more information about this and other ASA research prizes here. The accompanying poster to the podcast can be found in the March 2026 edition of Australian Anaesthetist. The September 2022 edition is all about environmental sustainability and where you can read more about this and other initiatives undertaken by anaesthetists. Both are available on the ASA website.Learn more about other ways to get involved in an audit as a trainee:Ep69. Talking TRA2SH - trainee led research into sustainability in healthcare with Dr Jess Davies

Welcome to 2026!In this episode I chat with Dr Andrea Binks, an anaesthetist and accomplished yoga facilitator from Wollongong, NSW. Dr. Binks shares her unconventional journey into anaesthesia, transitioning from physician and cardiology training in the UK to intensive care and eventually anaesthesia. I learn how yoga has been a constant in her life since childhood, evolving from a personal practice to teaching qualification, and how it now informs her approach to patient care.We explore the intersection of trauma-informed yoga practices and anaesthetic practice, the use of invitational language, and the importance of patient autonomy, and creating safe spaces for vulnerable patients.Episodes you may want to enjoy after this one:Ep98. Coaching for Doctors with Dr Anne FranklEp83. The Women's Empowerment and Leadership Initiative (WELI) with Prof Nina Deutsch & A/Prof Larry SchwartzEp106. Anaesthesia Unlocked: Fast-tracking IMGs in Australia with Prof David StoryFind out more about the Australian and New Zealand chapter of WELI - Women's Empowerment and Leadership InitiativeWe welcome new members and any feedback.https://asa.org.au/types-of-membership/how-to-join/[email protected]

I catch up with Professor Tim Cook, of the UK National Audit Projects live at the Australian Society of Anaesthetists' National Scientific Congress (NSC). We discuss his incredible work, his ideas of success and what risk in anaesthesia mean to him.ASA branded scrubs are here! Only available to ASA members. Get your discounted scrubs with free embroidery here.https://asa.org.au/your-asa-advantage-program#scrubsProfessor Cook's talk from the NSC is available to be viewed on demand. If you haven't already registered, you can do so here: https://asansc.com.au/registration/3 other episodes to listen to:Ep54: webAIRS with Prof Martin CulwickEp79: webAIRS: jaw dislocationEp111: The GLP-1 Revolution: What it Means for Anaesthesia with Dr Doug HackingWant to access more resources? Become an ASA member!We welcome any feedback. [email protected]

In this episode:The last of my thought bubble talks on how to introduce yourself with confidence and claritySome tips on balancing an academic research career and clinical medicineChanging from one medical specialty (e.g. paediatrics) to another (e.g anaesthesia)I'm chatting with Dr Doug Hacking, paediatrician, anaesthetist, researcher. We are discussing GLP-1 receptor agonists and what they mean for anaesthesia. This is based on his editorial in the September 2025 edition of the scientific journal, Anaesthesia and Intensive Care.ASA Members! Are you interested in learning more about gastric POCUS? At the end of the podcast I share with you an exclusive offer that will save you hundreds of dollars.Link to Prof Dariush Mozaffarian podcast on the health harms of unprocessed foods and ralated policies: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IaiGzkKIgbcThe exclusive ASA gastric POCUS offer: https://www.asahq.org/education-and-career/educational-and-cme-offerings/gastric-pocus Become an ASA member to access these resources and more: https://asa.org.au/types-of-membership/how-to-join/We welcome any feedback: [email protected]

In this episode I hand the mic over to Dr Tom Neal-Williams, an anaesthetic trainee and hard working member of the ASA Communications Committee to be a guest host on the podcast. He is talking with Professor Ed Mariano, regional anaesthesia guru, researcher, leader and educator and gaining tips on how he navigates his career. I also share some thoughts on vocal fry. This episode was recorded live at the ASA's National Scientific Congress in Canberra. If you want to watch Professor Mariano's talks from the Congress (and I suggest you do), you can register for access here: https://asansc.com.au/registration/Join the ASA to have access to more great educational content: https://asa.org.au/types-of-membership/how-to-join/We welcome any feedback. Email us ! [email protected]

An oldie but a goodie - literally!I'm chatting with Dr Bob Hare, President of the Australian Society of Anaesthetists (ASA) from 1980-82. and the earliest surviving President of the ASA. We also recorded this conversation a few years ago, prior to the ASA turning 90. We compare various anaesthetic techniques and innovations, from ether masks to glass cannulas that have occurred across the generations. Dr. Hare shares invaluable insights about the fight to elevate the status of anaesthetists in Australia, the importance of the preoperative consultation, and advances in postoperative pain management., We also dive into the changes in our role as anaesthetists as well as some of the important work he and the ASA has done to raise the status of anaesthetists here in Australia. I also share some thoughts on how to introduce yourself, or more particularly, how to say your name (you'd be surprised how often I hear people don't do it well). Some other episodes of interest: Ep90. Our special 90th birthday episode. https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/7eec4b11-e5d5-484b-b396-ab2e701e8318/EP90-Happy-90th-birthday-AAP-V2-converted.mp3Ep85 and Ep86. Conversations with ASA Past President Dr Don Maxwellhttps://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/b94ca3a2-cbc9-407c-a29b-a579ac16c34d/EP85-Dr-Don-Maxwell-Part-1-AAP-converted.mp3https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/5325f0ca-7402-4092-bc0b-0ae8c08c27a7/EP86-Dr-Don-Maxwell-Part-2-AAP-V1-converted.mp3Join the ASA in advancing anaesthesia excellence https://asa.org.au/As always, I welcome feedback and ideas: [email protected]

I had a conversation with A/Prof Magdalena Simonis about her approach, as a General Practitioner, to preventative healthcare and it blew my mind. It's changed my attitude, and I hope, by sharing this conversation that you too are motivated to see your GP and engage in preventative health. Dr Magdalena Simonis is a leading women’s health expert and advisor and a Senior Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Melbourne Department of General Practice, where she develops education resources for GPs. She is a long-standing member of the Expert Committee for Quality Care for the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and the Breast Cancer Network Australia Strategy and Policy Expert Advisory Group. She sits on the Women’s Health Victoria Board and is a Board Director at The Melbourne Teaching Health Clinics (MTHC) at the University of Melbourne . She is on several National Expert Advisory Groups, a Board member, GP, medical educator and examiner.As promised, here is the link to order a poo test: https://www.cancer.org.au/bowelscreeningLet me know what you thought about my discussion of Chris Voss' "Late night FM DJ voice". Does it convey a sense of calm [email protected]

In this episode I chat with Dr Alison Jarman, a Melbourne based anaesthetist who has temporarily located to Dili, Timor-Leste on an ASA Pacific Fellowship. We chat about life and anaesthesia in Timor-Leste and patiently navigating challenges and opportunities. Dr Jarman has been able to undertake this Fellowship with thanks to Sabbatical Leave from Austin Health (with acknowledgement to the Australian Medical Association for these and other leave entitlements) and the Australian Society of Anaesthetists Overseas Development and Education Committee (ODEC).To find out more about ODEC, please visit: https://asa.org.au/overseas-development-and-education-committeeLooking for similar episodes? Then I suggest:Ep105 on another project, led by Dr Pip Lane, that was accomplished with Sabbatical Leave: https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/2b616ec8-ac3c-4368-9c9b-77b2112500fd/EP105-Dr-Pip-Lane-AAP.mp3Ep75 where I chat with Dr Moira Rush about her Pacific Fellowship in Fiji: https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/e08f0b57-d9d5-486d-9087-760bee48e618.mp3In Ep99 I chat with A/Prof Rob McDougall about how Lifebox ANZ is improving operating theatre safety in the region. https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/1a56c07f-98e1-4d8c-9f16-4f401b66f500.mp3

Everyone, and I mean everyone - Government, the ASA, AMA, ANZCA and other Colleges - is talking about anaesthesia workforce in Australia. We have a shortage. We have a maldistribution, with not enough anesthetists in regional Australia.What is the solution? Nurse anaesthetists? Career medical officers? Importing anaesthetists from overseas - otherwise known as International Medical Graduates or IMGs? In this episode I chat with current ANZCA President (and conflict of interest - my boss at the University of Melbourne) about the process that has recently commenced by the Medical Board of Australia to expedite the recognition of overseas anaesthetists here in Australia. Find out more about the process here: https://www.anzca.edu.au/getContentAsset/0d0a59e7-0a91-4dfc-bb02-561fae80d398/80feb437-d24d-46b8-a858-4a2a28b9b970/Expedited-SIMG-pathway-ANZCA-information-update-Mar-2025-Final.pdf?language=enLearn about the Australian Society of Anaesthetists (ASA) recommendations to meet the workforce challenge: https://asa.org.au/publications/anaesthetist-workforce-modellingCPD Home is free to ASA members! Make it easy to stay compliant and fulfill your Continuing Professional Development requirements: https://www.cpdhome.org.au/

Come and listen to Dr Pip Lane, amazing leader, as she describes how she built this amazing service which enables timely intravenous access and reduces needle related trauma in women and children.I'm not alone in finding this service impressive. It has won many awards in South Australia and nationally.Two of the big contributors to Dr Lane's success was having Clinical Support/Non-Clinical Time (CST/NCT). Paid Non-Clinical time is a direct result of advocacy undertaken by the Australian Medical Association (AMA)/Australian Salaried Medical Officer's Federation (ASMOF). Show your gratitude for receiving this and other workplace protections by joining the AMA: https://www.ama.com.au/join-the-amaThe Persuasion and Influence Masterclass is on offer at the 2025 ASA National Scientific Congress. Secure your place (and meet me there!) by registering here:https://asansc.com.au/Share and develop your leadership skills by joining WELI. Men and women are welcome. Find out more in Ep83 https://player.captivate.fm/episode/1c43eb90-20ac-4cac-b915-ee46a326f798/ and by visiting https://ausnzweli.org/

Come Together for the Australian Society of Anaesthetists' National Scientific Congress (NSC) in Canberra.To be held from Thursday 2nd October - Sunday 5th October. It is during the school holidays for some states, so get those leave requests in, if you haven't already.Join NSC Convenor Dr Girish Palnitkar as we dive into what makes Canberra so special and what we can look forward to during the NSC.See you at the Gala Dinner at Parliament House - I can't wait!Register here: https://asansc.com.au/

Advanced Recovery Room Care (ARRC) is a concept that has changed the way I think about our model of care when it comes to or surgical patients. Come and meet the man behind the concept, Professor Guy Ludbrook. We discuss his ideas on innovation and dive into ARRC.Email [email protected] for more information or an introduction

Have you ever wondered whether you have made the right career choice?What if your passion was for a totally different career?And after graduating from 2 Ivy League universities and achieving success in a highly competitive sub specialty field, could you give it up to follow your passion?I explore all this and more with Dr Shari Hall who left anaesthesia to fulfill her dreams."Could a greater miracle take place than for us to look through each other's eyes for an instant?" Henry David ThoreauThat's the opening quote from this video made by the Cleveland Clinic. I encourage you to watch it. https://youtu.be/cDDWvj_q-o8?si=OIns_-f4LtyVqWXD

Dr Sarah Lee, an anaesthetist in Melbourne and tour de force in bringing accessible, interesting and practical CPD meetings to you. And they qualify for those hard to get Practice Audit CPD points!(To be eligible for those points, you'll need to do the pre-meeting survey and participate in the meeting).The next ADVANCE meeting is on Monday 26th May 2025 and is on thoracic anaesthesia.Contact us on [email protected] for the registration link.Missed out on the meeting and still want a refresher on thoracic anaesthesia? Refresh the basics and learn some tips in our Anaesthesia Recipe Book - its only for our members and can be found on the ASA website: https://asa.org.au/asaeducation/anaesthesia-recipe-book

Pop the champagne and come and celebrate 100 episodes of the Australian Anaesthesia podcast with me!Thank you to all the wonderful guests over the years, the Australian Society of Anaesthetists and most of all, YOU, for listening and supporting me and this podcast. Here are the links to some of the episodes I mention:Ep10: Fit Testing with Occupational Hygienist Kate Colehttps://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/c450e8f2-bc5c-46bf-9e2a-bd1ff60cc0aa/2020-0508-cole-respiratory-protection-final-tc.mp3 Ep44. Inside a COVID ECMO with Dr Ryan Salterhttps://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/57ca5cdd-68e7-4175-acf9-0c2f0efdb2a6/asa-44v2.mp3Ep59. Are you burnt out? with Dr Amy Immshttps://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/49902b7e-f0bc-429b-9999-cdf2c264ede3/EP59-20Are-20you-20burnt-20out-20AAP-converted.mp3Ep64. I didn't pass my exam with Prof David Storyhttps://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/b3ec0d08-4d34-4f45-b417-ac217979226b/EP62-20I-20didn-27t-20pass-20my-20exam-20AAP-converted.mp3Ep33. Substance use disorder: A personal perspective with Dr Colin Bairdhttps://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/a77b030a-5fbd-4b91-b5ef-4802588ac039/default-tc.mp3The Wellbeing Playlist: https://acecc.org.au/special-interest-groups/wellbeing/The Leadership & Management Playlist: https://acecc.org.au/special-interest-groups/leadership-management/Ep41. The Secret Thoughts of Presidents: Dr Jannicke Mellin-Olsen from the WFSAhttps://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/0a3e5307-8400-4925-a608-e649cfc13870/asa-41.mp3Ep80. Theatre lights on... Antarctica! with Dr David Tianhttps://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/6583bcfc-86b6-43d2-a169-1d0bb09042f3/EP80-Dr-David-Tian-AAP-2-converted.mp3Ep25. The Anaesthetic Crisis Manual with Dr David Borshoffhttps://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/9a23e649-031e-4a2f-a3ae-4c29a894a298/default-tc.mp3Ep78. AMAX4 - a cognitive aid for anaphylaxis with Dr Ben McKenziehttps://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/693c6f91-dba4-4aeb-aa2c-135dcd76add4/EP77-AMAX4-AAP-converted.mp3Ep50. How to become a specialist anaesthetist with guest host Chauhttps://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/72f6f5b0-3923-423e-a0c1-4eb17cbe6fa6/asa-49-v2-with-nr.mp3Ep70. From overseas to Austalian Specialist Anaesthetist with Dr Amrithahttps://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/f4f513f9-39af-4d88-968f-0f40dd9cdb54/EP70-v2.mp3You know where to find the rest!If not, please reach out to me on [email protected]

You may have heard of the Lifebox oximeter but did you know that Lifebox has also developed a capnograph? Every day in our region, anaesthetics are being given without an oximeter or capnograph. And as you can imagine, the outcomes are not always great. Lifebox seeks to address this and may be the only not for profit dedicated to improving surgical and anaesthesia safety throughout the world. Join me as I chat with Assoc Prof Rob McDougall, Member of the Lifebox Global Governance Council about the work of Lifebox. And of course we would love for you to be involved!Thank you to Podcasthon for encouraging and supporting podcasters to raise awareness about their favourite charity.To support our work and donate to Lifebox Australia New Zealand: https://members.anzca.edu.au/anzca/ANZCA/Donation/ANZCA/Donations_Standard/Donations/Donation_Options.aspxAll donations are tax deductible (for Australian tax residents)

Are you claiming for anaesthesia time units in a way that is compliant with Medicare and health fund rules?In this episode I revisit two earlier podcasts. From Ep52 of the Australian Anaesthesia podcast with Dr Mark Sinclair, I refresh our memories of the 2022 changes to the Medicare Benefits Schedule around anaesthesia time units. From Ep11 of our Talking Money series with Dr Andrew Mulcahy I include our discussion of pre-anaesthesia consultations.I go through various clinical scenarios and how they are regarded by our Economics Advisory Committee. The full version of this podcast is available exclusively for ASA members on the ASA website: https://asa.org.au/asa-public-podcasts/talking-money

In this episode I chat with Dr Anne Frankl, Melbourne paediatric anaesthetist and coach for doctors.We discuss what is coaching, how and why to become a coach as well as how it refreshed her career after burnout. To find out more about Anne: https://www.drannefrankl.com/Meet other Innovators here: https://asa.org.au/innovations-and-inventionsAnne's workshops are coming to the ASA! Keep a lookout in your emails for dates. Register here: https://asa.org.au/asaeducation/eventsFind out more about WELI, the Women's Empowerment and Leadership Initiative, here: https://ausnzweli.org/or by listening to Ep83: https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/ee9632df-8266-49ed-ac54-d1474a1382b7/EP83-Women-s-Empowerment-AAP-converted.mp3

In this episode I am chatting with ASA member Dr Stan Tay, who may sound familiar to some of you. He is a podcaster and content producer at the Anaesthesia Coffee Break podcast and Adrenaline Memories.He is also a co-developer of an automated billing service called Anaemate. We chat about how anaesthesia billing and the flow of money, how Anaemate works and what it was like as an anaesthetist going from idea to app developer.This podcast is not an endorsement of Anaemate. Please do your research and use a billing service, app, company (or not) according to your needs. To learn more about Anaemate: www.anaemate.com.auASA Members can access the Talking Money podcast series here: https://asa.org.au/asa-public-podcasts/talking-moneyLearn more about the Innovations and Inventions made by ASA members and other like-minded people: https://asa.org.au/innovations-and-inventionsHave you got an innovation you'd like to discuss on the podcast? Let us know - [email protected]

In this episode I am chatting with ASA member Dr Stan Tay, who may sound familiar to some of you. He is a podcaster and content producer at the Anaesthesia Coffee Break podcast and Adrenaline Memories.He is also a co-developer of an automated billing service called Anaemate. We chat about how anaesthesia billing and the flow of money, how Anaemate works and what it was like as an anaesthetist going from idea to app developer.This podcast is not an endorsement of Anaemate. Please do your research and use a billing service, app, company (or not) according to your needs. To learn more about Anaemate: www.anaemate.com.auASA Members can access the Talking Money podcast series here: https://asa.org.au/asa-public-podcasts/talking-moneyLearn more about the Innovations and Inventions made by ASA members and other like-minded people: https://asa.org.au/innovations-and-inventionsHave you got an innovation you'd like to discuss on the podcast? Let us know - [email protected]

Some big news! We have a new editor in chief at Anaesthesia and Intensive Care (AIC), the journal produced by the Australian Society of Anaesthetists.Join me as we get to know Professor Philip Peyton and learn about some of the behind-the-scenes working of a journal. Feel inspired? In Ep.48, I chat with Dr Michael Cooper, AIC Editorial Board member about prizes that are awarded by the journal. https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/b698c693-e0c0-42cd-93c4-7a37fc57e89b/asa-48-edit.mp3Learn more about AIC here: https://journals.sagepub.com/home/aic

In this episode, I chat with Dr Vin Gamage, a General Practitioner (GP) training to be a GP Anaesthetist. He is also an authorised prescriber of methadone.We discuss long-acting injectable buprenorphine: its history, development and the formulations currently available in Australia. Crucially, we discuss how to manage acute pain in someone who might be on one of these medications. There is a bit of pharmacology in this episode. So we have made a video which summarises some of the specifics. It can be found in the 'Anaesthesia Recipe Book' on the ASA website: https://asa.org.au/asaeducation/anaesthesia-recipe-book.You'll need to be an ASA member to access the video.The Australian Injecting and Illicit Drug Users League can be found here: https://aivl.org.au/

William Russ Pugh gave the first anaesthetic in Australia. In his honour, The Australian Society of Anaesthetists' Pugh Award is given to an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the advancement of anaesthesia, intensive care or related discipline.Who better to receive this award than Prof Colin Royse, clinician, researcher, educator extraordinaire! Prof Royse shares with me the challenges and insights from his distinguished research career including his interesting thoughts on what it takes to be a pioneer. Can the ASA support you in your research career? Learn more about our many awards, grants and prizes here: https://asa.org.au/asaeducation/asa-awards-prizes-and-research-grantsAre you an innovator or inventor? Learn what some of your peers have been creating: https://asa.org.au/innovations-and-inventionsShare your ideas with us! [email protected]

I am delighted to bring you this conversation with Prof Ki-Jinn Chin, a guru of regional anaesthesia in Toronto, Canada.This is the last of our podcasts from the Darwin National Scientific Congress. Until 6th January 2025 you can listen to Prof Chin's talks and many more On-Demand. They are available for registrants here: https://asansc.com.au/ondemand/Check out more videos on regional anaesthesia made by Prof Chin on his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@KiJinnChinQueries or feedback? Contact us here: [email protected]

Coming to you live from the Darwin National Scientific Congress! You can hear the excitement in our voices as well as the chatter of many happy Congress delegates in the background. I hope that's ok!I was excited to be sitting down with Prof Moonesinghe from University College London. A guru in Peri-op Med! I couldn't resist chatting with her about leadership. Her presentation at the Congress is definitely worth a listen. It is available On-Demand for registrants here: https://asansc.com.au/ondemand/I also encourage you to find out more about the Women's Empowerment and Leadership Initiative. Here's Ep83 where you can meet the founders of WELI in the USA:https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/ee9632df-8266-49ed-ac54-d1474a1382b7/EP83-Women-s-Empowerment-AAP-converted.mp3If you're interested in signing up to our Australian and New Zealand chapter, we are currently enrolling! You can express interest here: https://ausnzweli.org/contact/

I'm back!I couldn't think of a better reason to dust off the podcast gear than to welcome my incredible guest this week!Many of you will know Dr Will Flannery as "Dr Glauckomfleckem", ophthalmologist, comedian, cancer survivor (x2!) and survivor of out of hospital cardiac arrest. As I mention, his keynote at the Australian Society of Anaesthetists National Scientific Congress was moving. Beyond words. Here are three ways you can engage further:1. Register to listen to the full talk available on demand - Don’t miss out on any insights! Sign up now and enjoy the entire conversation at your conveniencehttps://asansc.com.au/ondemand/2. Watch this podcast episode on YouTube - Prefer video? Catch all the action and visuals by watching the episode on our YouTube channel!https://www.youtube.com/@AustraliaAnaes3. Check out the December edition of our Australian Anaesthesia magazine - It features a comprehensive wrap-up of all the action from the congress, including highlights from our discussion!https://asa.org.au/publications/australian-anaesthetist

Talking Money. Our series where we do more than talk money. on the 1st March 2024, new items were introduced into the MBS for anaesthetists. I discuss these with our MBS expert, Dr Michael Lumsden-Steel.This is a snippet of the full podcast.ASA Members can find the full episode here: https://asa.org.au/podcasts/talking-moneyNot a member? Find out more about membership here:https://asa.org.au/types-of-membership

Happy 90th birthday to the Australian Society of Anaesthetists!In this episode, I try my hand at being a historian. We revisit the discovery of modern anaesthetic agents and have a peak into the Ether Dome. Dr William Morton is widely credited as being the discoverer of modern anaesthesia, but did he work alone or with others? You may have heard of Dr Horace Wells and Dr Crawford Long. What was their role and what became of them?With the help of ASA President Dr Mark Sinclair and Past ASA Presidents Drs Don Maxwell, Bob Hare and Greg Deacon, I discuss the significance of the forming of the ASA and some of the milestone events. We gain a deeper insight into the practice of anaesthesia over the years and the crucial role that the ASA has played in developing a high standard of anesthesia and improving patient safety in Australia. We also delve into the personal side of the ASA, particularly one of the founders, Dr Geoffrey Kaye and the separating of ways that occurred between Dr Kaye and the ASA. Was it ever able to be mended? All of these stories and more are packed into this bumper episode.To feedback on the podcast, please contact me on [email protected] I take a short break, feel free to listen to these related episodes:My full conversation with Past President Dr Don Maxwell: https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/b94ca3a2-cbc9-407c-a29b-a579ac16c34d/EP85-Dr-Don-Maxwell-Part-1-AAP-converted.mp3https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/5325f0ca-7402-4092-bc0b-0ae8c08c27a7/EP86-Dr-Don-Maxwell-Part-2-AAP-V1-converted.mp3Episodes from webAIRS, the binational anaesthesia incident reporting system:https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/5940c2ae-2f7a-4174-ad3a-869ac46ccc64/ASA-2054.mp3https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/f4cc8ce3-390c-42f2-8e3f-d44917dfdba1/EP57-20Lingual-20Nerve-20Injury-20AAP-20.mp3https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/cf949d95-0e23-4fc7-bded-e54dabe7c75d/EP79v2-jaw-dislocation-AAP.mp3A first hand account of being an anaesthetist with a substance use disorder:https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/a77b030a-5fbd-4b91-b5ef-4802588ac039/default-tc.mp3I hope you are enjoying the birthday festivities!

This is the third and final installment of the chat I had with Immediate Past Chair of the Australian New Zealand Anaesthetic Allergy Group (ANZAAG), Dr Richard Scolaro. We discuss pholcodine and some myths about the management of anaphylaxis.In part 1 and 2 we discuss anaesthetic anaphylaxis testing and penicillin and cephalosporin cross reactivity and more. Register for the ASA webinar (members only) on Thursday 21st March with Dr Ben McKenzie: https://asa.org.au/amax4-every-second-counts/ANZAAG: https://anzaag.com/Ep.78 with Dr Ben McKenzie https://player.captivate.fm/episode/b9e24099-e5a6-49ed-ab02-1ea196c40ebdlog your CPD: https://www.cpdhome.org.au/https://asa.org.au/events/https://asa.org.au/types-of-membership/how-to-join/We welcome any feedback: [email protected]

This is Part 2 of 3 in our series where I chat with Immediate Past Chair of the Australian New Zealand Anaesthetic Allergy Group (ANZAAG), Dr Richard Scolaro. We discuss anaphylaxis to penicillin and cross reactivity to cephalosporins.In Part 1 we discuss anaphylaxis testing and in part 3 we discuss pholcodine, management of anaphylaxis and more. ANZAAG: https://anzaag.com/Register for the ASA webinar (members only) on Thursday 21st March with Dr Ben McKenzie: https://asa.org.au/amax4-every-second-counts/Ep.78 with Dr Ben McKenzie https://player.captivate.fm/episode/b9e24099-e5a6-49ed-ab02-1ea196c40ebdlog your CPD: https://www.cpdhome.org.au/https://asa.org.au/types-of-membership/how-to-join/We welcome any feedback: [email protected]

In this episode I chat with Immediate Past Chair of the Australian New Zealand Anaesthetic Allergy Group (ANZAAG), Dr Richard Scolaro. We chat about anaesthetic anaphylaxis testing and some of the common questions that arise. For example, did you know that morphine is used as a postive control? Yes, you should see a reaction to morphine. This is Part 1 of 3 in our series. In the next two parts we discuss penicillin and cephalosporin cross reactivity, pholcodine and more.ANZAAG: https://anzaag.com/Register for the ASA webinar (members only) on Thursday 21st March with Dr Ben McKenzie: https://asa.org.au/amax4-every-second-counts/Ep.78 with Dr Ben McKenzie https://player.captivate.fm/episode/b9e24099-e5a6-49ed-ab02-1ea196c40ebdlog your CPD: https://www.cpdhome.org.au/https://asa.org.au/events/https://asa.org.au/types-of-membership/how-to-join/We welcome any feedback: [email protected]

Merry Christmas!Dr Donald Maxwell was President of the Australian Society of Anaesthetists from 1982 - 1984. In this episode we learn about Don's path to Presidency as we well as some of the major achievements of the ASA in terms of how we as anaesthetists conduct our practice. In Part 1, Don shares many insights into the nature of clinical anaesthesia in Australia from the 1960s to today.https://asa.org.au/types-of-membership/how-to-join/We welcome any feedback. [email protected]

Dr Donald Maxwell was President of the Australian Society of Anaesthetists from 1982 - 1984. In this episode we talk about Don's early career and anaesthesia in the 1960s. We also learn about the birth of intensive care medicine in Australia.This is Part 1 of our conversation. Join us next week for Part 2!https://asa.org.au/types-of-membership/how-to-join/

In my time as President of the Australian Society of Anaesthetists and since, I have met a few doctors who have had dealings with Ahpra, the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency. My general impression is that it is not a pleasant experience. I have also heard many doctors complain about the 14% increase in registration fees this year.In this episode, I chat with Nick Elmitt, Policy Manager at the Australian Medical Association (AMA). He shares his insights from the work that the AMA does with Ahpra in raising issues such as how long they take to handle complaints, vexatious notifications and more.If you do receive a notification from Ahpra, contact your MDO. Feel free to also contact the ASA and the AMA. For the best advice and support, you do need to be a member. Find out more about membership here:https://asa.org.au/types-of-membership/how-to-join/https://www.ama.com.au/join-the-ama

I am delighted to be chatting with leaders in paediatric anaesthesia, Professor Nina Deutsch and Associate Professor Larry Schwartz. They are two of the founders of the Women's Empowerment and Leadership Initiative (WELI). WELI was established to help women achieve their leadership goals through mentoring, coaching and sponsorship.An Australian & New Zealand chapter of WELI is commencing! If you would like to learn more about WELI here in Australia and New Zealand, please visit http://ausnzweli.org/Interested to find out even more? Express interest here. There is no obligation to commit. http://ausnzweli.org/contact/

Did you know that Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements will change in 2024 for ALL doctors?Find out more in this chat with Vice President of the Australian Society of Anaesthetists, Dr Vida Viliunas. Dr Viliunas is also the Chair of the ASA Education Committee and has supported many members with their CPD efforts.To find out more about the AMA Doctor Portal Learning (DPL) CPD program: https://www.cpdhome.org.au/programThere are plenty of educational resources from the ASA to fulfill your CPD requirements:https://asa.org.au/events/https://asa.org.au/asaeducationhttps://asansc.com.au/To access many of these resources, you need to be an ASA member. To find out more about joining: https://asa.org.au/types-of-membership/how-to-join/

We might want to encourage a patient to change their private health insurer, but is this a good idea? (Spoiler alert - no!)The bigger question is why do we even want to do this in the first place?Members of the Australian Society of Anaesthetists can listen to the full episode here:https://asa.org.au/podcasts/talking-moneyNot a member? Visit the ASA website to learn more and to join: https://asa.org.au/types-of-membership/how-to-join

Congratulations for getting a training position job and taking a big step toward what I hope will be a long, rewarding and happy career! In this episode I chat with Chair of the Australian Society of Anaesthetists Trainee Member Group, Dr Jason Kong, about the ANZCA training fees: what they are and when you need to pay them.The full episode of this podcast is on the ASA website: https://asa.org.au/podcasts/talking-moneyFact check the ANZCA website: https://www.anzca.edu.au/education-training/anaesthesia-training-program/training-as-an-anaesthetistMore resources for ASA trainee members here: https://asa.org.au/committees/trainee-members-group-tmgIt's free to join the ASA for pre-vocational doctors and basic trainees: https://asa.org.au/types-of-membership/how-to-join/

I chat with ASA Member Dr Jack Madden and founder of PeriopConcepts. PeriopConcepts is an online learning resource for anaesthesia assistants and those new to anaesthesia.Access PeriopConcepts here: https://www.periopconcepts.comMeet more of our innovators and inventors here: https://asa.org.au/innovations-and-inventions/Learn more about how the ASA supports Global Health: https://asa.org.au/what-we-do/global-healthContact me: [email protected]