The Round Up: A Rural Health Podcast

Dental emergencies can walk into any consult, and knowing what to do in those first moments can make all the difference. In this episode of The Round Up, host A/Prof Elissa Hatherly speaks with North Queensland dentist Dr Blake Phibbs about the practical management of common dental presentations, from avulsed teeth to post-extraction infections.Blake breaks down what to do when a tooth is knocked out, including the critical one-hour window for reimplanting adult teeth and why baby teeth should never be reinserted. He also shares simple, real-world tips like temporary stabilisation, appropriate antibiotic use, and how to differentiate between conditions such as dry socket, infection, and pulpitis. The conversation focuses on clear decision-making in time-sensitive situations, especially when immediate dental care is not available.Whether you're in general practice, emergency care, or a rural setting without easy access to a dentist, this episode offers practical, confidence-building guidance for managing dental dramas when they present.Resources:Therapeutic Guidelines – Oral and Dental GuidelinesQueensland Government – Health – Emergency Dental

Driving is closely tied to independence, especially in regional communities, but what happens when cognitive decline comes into play? In this episode of The Round Up, host A/Prof Elissa Hatherly speaks with geriatrician Professor Eddy Strivens about the complex and often sensitive issue of dementia and driving.Professor Strivens explains that an early dementia diagnosis does not automatically mean stopping driving, but it does require careful, ongoing assessment of memory, judgment, and spatial awareness. He outlines practical tools clinicians can use, from in-clinic cognitive screening to on-road assessments, and discusses the real-world challenges patients face, including cost and access in Far North Queensland. The conversation also explores conditional licensing, early planning, and how to approach these discussions with patients and their families in a way that balances safety with dignity.Whether you’re a GP, training doctor, or part of a multidisciplinary team supporting older patients, this episode offers clear, practical guidance on navigating one of the most challenging aspects of dementia care.Resources:MoCA CognitionAustroads Assessing Fitness to Drive guidelinesAustralian and New Zealand Society for Geriatric Medicine Position Statement Driving and Dementia. Australasian Journal on Ageing, 2010, 29: 137-141.Dementia Australia – Driving and dementia

Diabetes in pregnancy is more common than many realise, and the consequences can last a lifetime. In the first episode of 2026 of The Round Up, host A/Prof Elissa Hatherly speaks with Dr Anna McLean, General Endocrinologist and Clinical Lead for Diabetes in Pregnancy at Cairns Hospital, about the rising prevalence and what it means for clinicians on the ground.With 23% of births in Cairns affected by diabetes, Dr McLean unpacks the spectrum from gestational diabetes to pre-existing type 1 and type 2 diabetes. She outlines practical management strategies — from nutrition therapy and exercise as first-line treatment to appropriate use of metformin and insulin — and explains why early referral, preconception planning, and close monitoring are critical to preventing congenital anomalies, obstetric complications, and long-term metabolic risk for both mother and baby.Whether you provide antenatal care, manage young women with diabetes, or want to strengthen your approach to preconception counselling, this episode delivers clear, evidence-based guidance to start the year strong.Resources:ADIPS: GDM Diagnosis and Screening GuidelinesQueensland Health Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) Clinical Guidelines

Type 2 diabetes treatment is evolving fast—and the focus has shifted from managing blood sugar to preventing long-term complications early. In this episode of The Round Up, host A/Prof Elissa Hatherly speaks with Dr Luke Conway about the major paradigm shifts transforming diabetes care, from early diagnosis and aggressive therapy to the latest in medications and monitoring technologies.Dr Conway explains how modern management now prioritises kidney and heart health, with SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 agonists leading the way. He also explores the expanding role of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), the potential of oral GLP-1s, and what’s on the horizon in diabetes medicine.Whether you regularly manage patients with diabetes or just want to stay across the “tsunami” of new treatments on the way, this episode offers practical, up-to-date insights to support better outcomes in every practice.Resources:Rosenstock, J, et al. Orforglipron, an Oral Small-Molecule GLP-1 Receptor Agonist, in Early Type 2 Diabetes. The New England Journal of Medicine 393 (2025) 1065-1076.FreeStyle Libre CGMDexcom CGMConway, L. ABC Checklist for Screening in T2D. Diabetes Management Journal May 2023 30-31.National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS)NDSS: Australian Type 2 Diabetes Glycaemic Management Algorithm

What if simple lifestyle changes could help reverse chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease? In this episode of The Round Up, host A/Prof Elissa Hatherly speaks with Dr Sam Manger, GP and Academic Lead for Lifestyle Medicine at James Cook University, about the powerful role of lifestyle medicine in transforming patient outcomes.From food and movement to mind-body health and social connection, Dr Manger explains how addressing the root causes of disease can improve longevity and quality of life. He also shares his personal journey with chronic pain, the evidence behind interventions like yoga and strength training, and the modifiable risk factors that can reduce dementia risk.Whether you’re passionate about preventive care or curious how lifestyle medicine fits into daily practice, this episode offers practical, evidence-based insights you can apply with your next patient.Resources:JCU postgraduate courses: Grad Cert, Grad Diploma, and Master in Lifestyle Medicine including social prescribing, health coaching and implementation scienceYouTube: Using lifestyle as medicine: A new era in chronic disease remissionThree-week online microcredential in Lifestyle Medicine and Mental Health: Life and Mind BrainHQThe GP Show

Hospital beds are under pressure across Australia—but what if care could come to the patient instead? In this episode of The Round Up, host A/Prof Elissa Hatherly speaks with Dr David Clark, Hospital in the Home (HITH) consultant, about how this model of care is improving outcomes, reducing costs, and helping patients recover where they feel most comfortable.From post-operative care and infections to heart failure management, Dr Clark explains which patients are suitable for HITH and how remote monitoring, video consults, and nurse-led models deliver safe, high-quality care at home. He also shares insights on GP referrals, building trust in the program, and integrating HITH with services like RaSS and the Geriatric Evaluation and Management program.Whether you’re a GP looking to keep patients out of hospital, or a health professional curious about how virtual care works in practice, this episode offers a practical guide to making HITH part of everyday care.Resources:Hospital in the Home Society AustralasiaHospital in the Home (HITH) - Community HealthPathways MackayRapid Access Clinics and Acute Home Care - Community HealthPathways TownsvilleHospital in the Home (HITH) - Community HealthPathways Far North QueenslandHospital In Your Home - Bringing the Hospital to you

Climate change isn’t just an environmental issue—it’s a health issue too. In this episode of The Round Up, host A/Prof Elissa Hatherly speaks with Canadian public health practitioner Hannah Mason, who studied at James Cook University, about how rising heat is reshaping health in North Queensland.From a 13% jump in ambulance calls to spikes in ED presentations and hospital admissions, Hannah explains how heatwaves stretch health services, which groups are most vulnerable, and why public health strategies like preparedness planning and community education are critical. She also explores broader climate-linked risks—from disease outbreaks to environmental hazards—and what it means for the future of healthcare.Whether you’re a doctor, nurse, allied health professional, or simply curious about the intersection of climate and health, this episode offers clear, practical insights for protecting patients and communities in a hotter world.Resources:JCU Master of Public Health: https://www.jcu.edu.au/courses/master-of-public-healthMason, HM, et al. The impact of extreme heat on mass-gathering sporting events: Implications for Australia and other countries. Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport 27 (2024) 515-524.Mason, H, et al. Systematic review of the impact of heatwaves on health service demand in Australia. BMC Health Services Research (2022) 22: 960.Mason, HM, et al. Determining the Impact of Heatwaves on Emergency Ambulance Calls in Queensland: A Retrospective Population-Based Study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (2023), 20, 4875.Franklin, RC, et al. Heatwaves and mortality in Queensland 2010–2019: implications for a homogenous state-wide approach. International Journal of Biometeorology (2023) 67: 503-515.Matthew Agius. Half a year of dangerous heat beckons for parts of Australia in 1.8 degree warmer world. Cosmos Magazine, 26 August 2022.

Radiation therapy has come a long way—and for regional and rural patients, the impact is life-changing. In this episode of The Round Up, host A/Prof Elissa Hatherly speaks with Dr Tim Squire, a radiation oncologist based in Townsville, about the cutting-edge developments in cancer care that are improving access, tolerability, and outcomes.From advanced techniques like IMRT and VMAT to hypofractionation that reduces weeks of treatment into just days, Dr Squire explains how modern radiation therapy is more precise, more effective, and easier for patients than ever before. He also shares insights into managing side effects, treating oligometastatic disease, and why radiation remains one of the most cost-effective therapies in the cancer space.Whether you refer cancer patients regularly or want to stay updated on treatment options available in regional centres, this episode delivers a concise and practical overview of where radiation oncology is headed.

What does a culturally safe healthcare environment actually look like? In this episode of The Round Up, host A/Prof Elissa Hatherly is joined by Prof Shannon Springer, the incoming Clinical Lead for ATSICHS Mackay with experience in health education, and Dr Sarah Jane Springer, Senior Project Officer at CWAATSICH/QAIHC SEM and Director at Springer Health Consultants to discuss moving the cultural safety conversation from theory into practice.They explore simple yet powerful steps healthcare providers can take—like displaying local Aboriginal art, using inclusive language, and involving Elders in environmental assessments—to make Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients feel genuinely safe and respected. The conversation also highlights the need for trauma-informed care, co-designed policies, and continuous quality improvement driven by community feedback.Whether you're leading a rural clinic, part of a hospital executive team, or starting out in healthcare, this episode offers practical, community-led strategies to embed cultural safety into your daily work.Resources:AIDA’s (Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association) Cultural Safety Training: https://aida.org.au/cultural-safety-program/what-is-cultural-safety/IAHA (Indigenous Allied Health Australia) Cultural Responsiveness Training: https://iaha.com.au/iaha-consulting/cultural-responsiveness-training/National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander faculty for GP: https://www.racgp.org.au/the-racgp/faculties/aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-healthCultural Safety: From Compliance to Commitment Report: https://abetterculture.org.au/news-resources/cultural-safety/

NAIDOC Week marks 50 years of strength, vision, and legacy—but how do we turn celebration into lasting change in our health systems? In this episode of The Round Up, host A/Prof Elissa Hatherly is joined by Dr Shannon Springer, the incoming Clinical Lead for ATSICHS Mackay with experience in health education, and Dr Sarah Jane Springer, Senior Project Officer at CWAATSICH/QAIHC SEM and Director at Springer Health Consultants, to explore the deeper meaning of NAIDOC Week and the challenge of embedding cultural safety in everyday healthcare.Together, they reflect on the evolution of NAIDOC Week—from a national protest to a proud movement of black excellence—and this year’s theme, “The Next Generation". They unpack what true cultural safety means in practice, and why the burden of advocacy must shift from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clinicians to the system itself.Whether you’re a supervisor, student, or frontline clinician, this episode is a call to action to engage, reflect, and take responsibility for building a culturally safe health system.Resources:Cairns NAIDOC Week: https://cairnsnaidoc.com/Townsville NAIDOC Week: https://www.townsvillenaidoc.com.au/Mackay NAIDOC Week:https://www.mackay.qld.gov.au/community/community_programs/aboriginal-torres-strait-islander-information/aboriginal_and_torres_islander_significant_dateshttps://www.facebook.com/NAIDOCMACKAY/Mount Isa NAIDOC Week: 2025 NAIDOC Week Celebrations - Mount Isa | FacebookNational NAIDOC Week: https://www.naidoc.org.au/The History of NAIDOC Posters YouTube clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdUNxd2EIwA

When a child acts out, it’s not just about the behaviour—it’s about the big picture. In this episode of The Round Up, A/Prof Elissa Hatherly sits down with paediatrician Dr Gopakumar Hariharan to unpack the rise in behavioural referrals for children across North Queensland. From tantrums to anxiety, ADHD to autism, Dr Hariharan walks through the crucial role GPs play in early assessment, baseline testing, and guiding families toward the right support.He outlines practical strategies including the use of behavioural questionnaires, audiology and optometry referrals, and resources like Triple P and community health centres. The discussion also highlights the importance of parent education, collaborative care, and when to escalate to tertiary services.Whether you're a rural GP, a registrar, or just looking to sharpen your paediatric approach, this episode offers clear, practical advice for managing behavioural concerns in kids.Resources:Dr Gopakumar Hariharan’s Blog: Ripples From Pebbles | Dr. Gopakumar Hariharan – Welcome to my child health and Coaching blog siteTriple P – Positive Parenting Program: https://www.triplep-parenting.net.au/qld-en/triple-p/Mackay Hospital and Health Service Child, Youth and Family Health Unit (Carlyle Community Health Centre): https://www.mackay.health.qld.gov.au/services/child-youth-and-family-health/child-youth-and-family-health-carlyle-community-healthNICHQ Vanderbilt Assessment Scale – Parent Informant & Teacher Informant forms: https://nichq.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/NICHQ-Vanderbilt-Assessment-Scales.pdfConnect to Wellbeing Referral Form: https://www.neaminational.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Form_Referral_Connect_to_Wellbeing_V8.pdfEarly Childhood Development program: https://www.childrens.health.qld.gov.au/for-health-professionals/refer-your-patient/referral-forms#section__child-development-serviceTogether in Mind program: https://www.childrens.health.qld.gov.au/resources/health-services/mental-health/together-in-mindSupport for fathers: https://supportforfathers.com.au/

Menopause isn’t a moment – it’s a journey that can span decades and affect every part of a woman’s life. In this episode of The Round Up, host A/Prof Elissa Hatherly is joined by Dr Ritu Rana, obstetrician-gynaecologist and fertility specialist, to unpack the often-overlooked realities of menopause.From hot flushes and brain fog to bladder leakage and mood swings, they explore the full scope of symptoms, diagnostic tips, and evidence-based treatments including HRT, non-hormonal therapies, and lifestyle changes. They also address complex issues like lichen sclerosus, compounded HRT, and post-menopausal bleeding – emphasising the importance of personalised care and informed decisions.Whether you're treating patients or going through it yourself, this episode is packed with practical insights to support women through this transformative stage of life.Resources:Jean Hailes for Women’s Health: https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/Australasian Menopause Society: https://www.menopause.org.au/RANZCOG – A Practitioner’s Toolkit for Managing Menopause (Monash University): https://ranzcog.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/Monash-Practitioners-Toolkit-Managing-Menopause.pdfRANZCOG – Menopause (for the public): https://ranzcog.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/Menopause.pdf

What does it take to deliver critical care hundreds of kilometres from the nearest hospital? In this episode of The Round Up, host A/Prof Elissa Hatherly is joined by Dr Dean Taylor, a retrieval medicine specialist and medical education lead with the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) in Queensland.Dr Taylor shares the realities of working in aeromedical retrieval across rural and remote Australia—from the challenges of wet season landings to triaging patients with limited resources. He explores the vital roles of communication, teamwork, and preparation, and highlights the coordination efforts of Retrieval Services Queensland. Whether you're a clinician interested in retrieval medicine or simply curious about the logistics of outback healthcare, this episode offers a compelling look into one of the most demanding fields in medicine.Resources:Royal Flying Doctors Service: https://www.flyingdoctor.org.au/Royal Flying Doctors Service - Emergency: https://www.flyingdoctor.org.au/emergency/Requirement for credentialling in Queensland for retrieval medicine; the first four are required for entry into the field. Six months at registrar level in each of:Intensive CareAnaesthesiaEmergency MedicinePaediatrics (or mixed Emergency Medicine Experience)Pre-Hospital and Retrieval Medicine experience(Obstetrics and Gynaecology – preferred for RFDS.)

Join Dr Alok Rana on The Round Up as he delves into the alarming rise of dementia in Australia. Did you know 424,000 Aussies are currently affected, with numbers growing by 5% each year? Early diagnosis is crucial, and dementia cases are expected to double by 2054. Learn about the early signs, such as memory loss and cognitive decline, and the key risk factors like age and genetics. Dr Rana also covers the role of memory clinics, medications, and non-pharmacological interventions like cognitive stimulation therapy. Tune in to discover how we can better support dementia patients and their families.Resources:My Aged Care Service and Support Portal: https://www.health.gov.au/resources/apps-and-tools/my-aged-care-service-and-support-portalDementia Support Australia: https://www.dementia.com.au/

Obesity treatment is evolving, and so is our understanding of how to support long-term success. Join The Round Up host, A/Prof Elissa Hatherly, as she sits down with Dr Luke Conway to discuss the shifting landscape of obesity care — from the pitfalls of BMI as a metric to the real challenges of diet, exercise, and patient engagement.This episode unpacks the latest in medical treatment, from traditional weight-loss medications like phentermine and Orlistat to the new wave of GLP-1 drugs, including Ozempic and Mounjaro. Dr Conway breaks down their efficacy, side effects, and potential role in primary prevention, while also exploring the future of obesity management. With an emphasis on long-term commitment and sustainable lifestyle changes, this conversation is essential for healthcare professionals, patients, and anyone curious about the latest advancements in weight management.

What does it mean to holistically care for mothers and babies during the perinatal period? Join The Round Up host, A/Prof Elissa Hatherly, as she catches up with local perinatal psychiatrist Dr Angela Anson to explore the intricate and often overlooked world of perinatal mental health. Because, as Dr Anson reminds us, “There is no such thing as a baby — only a baby and their caregiver.”From understanding the challenges of pregnancy and early parenthood to addressing the ripple effects of untreated mental health issues, this conversation unpacks the complexities of perinatal mental health. Dr Anson sheds light on common concerns like anxiety, depression, and perinatal psychosis, offering practical advice on recognising the signs, providing support, and fostering a strong maternal-infant bond.Whether you're a healthcare professional, a new parent, or simply curious about the intersection of mental health and parenting, this episode offers a compassionate and rural health-focused lens on the importance of building a "village" to support families through one of life’s most transformative experiences.Resources for health professionals:Queensland Medicines Advice & Information Service (QMAIS) – Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital:Phone: 07 3646 7599 or 07 3646 7098Fax: 07 3646 1393Patient leaflets re: psychotropic medications:Choice and Medication (Queensland Health have subscription, many universities)NHS Bumps: Best use of medicines in pregnancyOnline:MumSpace: Antenatal & Postnatal Depression Support Australia (includes free online self-guided psychological treatments)DadSpace: Support for Dads During Pregnancy & Early FatherhoodCOPE: Centre of Perinatal ExcellenceGidget Foundation1300 MH CALL for local area perinatal infant mental health service

Join The Round Up host, Dr Elissa Hatherly, as she explores the exciting specialist training pathways available in northern Queensland. Special guests Andrea Muller, Dr Remi Sayre, Dr Sally Magoffin, Dr Alex Boland and Dr Emma-Lee May share their experiences, from hands-on learning in tight-knit communities to the mentorship and support that make regional training so rewarding.Whether you're a medical student, intern or junior doctor, this episode is packed with insights, advice, and real-life stories to help you navigate your career journey. Tune in now and take the first step toward a fulfilling medical career in northern Queensland.Medical Careers Webinar Series: www.nqrth.edu.au/2026/Episode 1: 2026 QLD Intern Campaign Information Session: Tuesday 29th April 2025, 6.00 pm – 8.00 pmEpisode 2: Thriving during end-to-end training in northern Queensland: Tuesday 13th May 2025, 6.00 pm – 7.30 pmEpisode 3: RMO and Registrar Information Session: Thursday 22nd May 2025, 6.00 pm – 7.30 pmEpisode 4: Enhance your medical training through research: Wednesday 28th May 2025, 6.00 pm – 7.30 pm

Binge eating disorder (BED) is the most common eating disorder, affecting nearly half of all individuals with eating disorders. Despite its prevalence, it remains underdiagnosed and often misunderstood, particularly in patients with larger bodies who face unique challenges, including stigma within the healthcare system.In this episode of The Round Up, host Dr Elissa Hatherly discusses the complexities of BED with Dr. Laura Smith, a psychiatrist with North Queensland's Eating Disorder Service. They cover a range of topics, including:The defining features of BED, including loss of control, emotional distress, and physical health implications.The significant yet often hidden impact of BED, with many patients suffering in silence for decades.The detrimental effects of weight stigma and how traditional weight-loss approaches may exacerbate the condition.Practical tools and frameworks, such as "Health at Every Size," to help medical professionals offer inclusive, evidence-based care.This episode equips healthcare providers with essential knowledge to recognize and address BED, emphasising the importance of reducing stigma and supporting patients in achieving better mental and physical health outcomes.

Parkinson's disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder, with an incidence rate that increases by around 4% every year. This disease can have a debilitating impact on quality of life, from daily functioning to mental health and wellbeing. In this episode of The Round Up, host Dr Elissa Hatherly talks with public neurologist Dr Kim Forrest from the Cairns region. Dr Forrest delves into prevalence and risk factors, medication strategies, common side effects, and the importance of bowel health in Parkinson’s care. She also highlights the crucial role of exercise, mental activity, and allied health partnerships in slowing disease progression and supporting quality of life.Whether you’re a healthcare professional or simply looking to understand more about Parkinson’s, this episode is packed with practical advice and compassionate insights to support those living with this condition.

In Australia, geriatric depression is an often overlooked crisis, with estimates indicating up to 50% of seniors in aged care facilities suffer from significant depressive symptoms. As our population ages, addressing this pressing issue becomes crucial for improving the quality of life for older Australians and ensuring they receive the mental health support they need.In this episode of The Round Up, host Dr Elissa Hatherly talks with Dr Alok Rana, a psychiatrist specialising in geriatric depression. They discuss the challenges faced by clinicians in identifying and addressing mental health issues within this vulnerable population and how to spot the signs and symptoms that may present differently from younger patients.With practical insights and a compassionate perspective, this episode aims to equip clinicians with the tools to better understand and support their elderly patients in navigating mental health challenges.

Acne is a widespread issue, affecting an estimated 80% of adolescents and young adults. Treating patients with acne can take up a surprisingly large amount of your time as a clinician in primary care.Join NQRTH Round Up host, Dr Elissa Hatherly, as she discusses all things acne with Dr Ilsphi Browne, a dermatologist based in Cairns. Dr Browne discusses how primary healthcare practitioners can be more proactive in treating acne, from patient education to a range of innovative treatment options now available.

Endometriosis is a chronic condition that can present with debilitating pain and sub-fertility. Approximately 10% of women suffer from endometriosis at some point in their life. There is growing awareness amongst patients and healthcare professionals alike, and yet this 'silent' condition is still prone to being missed or undermanaged.Join NQRTH Round Up host, Dr Elissa Hatherly, as she discusses endometriosis with Dr Wojciech Szubert, an endometriosis specialist who has recently moved to Mackay from the United Kingdom. Dr Szubert covers a range of topics on this chronic condition, from prevalence, diagnosis, co-morbidities and treatment.

Psoriatic arthritis may seem like an obscure condition, but it affects more people than many primary healthcare practitioners may realise. An estimated 200,000 Australians are living with psoriatic arthritis, with symptoms of painful 'flare-ups' that can range from mild to debilitating. It also may be affecting much younger patients than you would expect, with the onset of symptoms generally occurring between the ages of 30 and 50. While the condition isn't curable, there are treatments available to limit the impact on your patient's quality of life. Join NQRTH Round Up host, Dr Elissa Hatherly, as she discusses all things psoriatic arthritis with Dr Anna Kermond, a rheumatology registrar in Cairns. Dr Kermond covers a variety of important topics, including: prevalence, diagnosis, co-morbidities and next steps for treatment.

An ever-increasing phenomenon, paediatric allergies can lead to unexpected considerations and challenges in primary care. Studies have shown around 10 per cent of children have an allergy, a figure that increases to 30 per cent in children with eczema. With incidence continuing to rise, the treatment of allergies and its complications is something every healthcare practitioner should feel comfortable managing.Join NQRTH Round Up host, Dr Elissa Hatherly, as she discusses food allergies in children with Dr Peter Bourke. Dr Bourke is a consultant physician at Cairns Hospital, a clinical immunologist, and an allergist. This episode covers a range of important topics all clinicians should be taking into account when treating a child with allergies:Identifying common (and uncommon) presenting symptoms.Important considerations during history taking.Managing parents' expectations and anxieties around the risks associated with allergies.Discussing current best treatments and next steps.The latest evidence on how the incidence and treatment of allergies.Busting common myths in the community about food allergies in children.

Choosing the best and most accessible contraception for patients isn't always straightforward, especially in rural and remote areas. Primary healthcare practitioners must balance patient expectations, safety, and other considerations to get the best outcome for their patients.In the first episode for season 3 of the Round Up, your host Dr Elissa Hatherly discusses contraception with Dr Kaylene Girgenti, a rural generalist based in Townsville. Dr Girgenti specialises in women's health, having trained in obstetrics and gynaecology, and works in practice and hospitals across rural north Queensland. She covers a range of topics important for primary health care practitioners, from accessibility to fertility implications and managing patient expectations.

In our final episode for Season 2 and for 2023, we're discussing an issue that's on the rise in northern Queensland and across the world. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a largely preventable disease that is an ever-increasing presentation in primary healthcare settings and is often not caught until advanced stages.Join the Round Up host, Dr Elissa Hatherly as she chats with Dr Tahira Scott, a nephrologist based in Cairns who treats Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across the Cape and Torres region. Dr Scott discusses some of the shocking statistics on CKD, current and future diagnosis and treatment, and why 'Time is Kidney' when it comes to addressing this rising health concern.

Today we're talking about an increasingly common and completely avoidable condition that is impacting close to half of the young Australians diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes.Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious and life-threatening complication of diabetes that is growing in prevalence across Australia. For many children and young adults, DKA is leading to hospitalisation and a host of life-impacting complications that could have been avoided if screened for sooner.Join the Round Up host, Dr Elissa Hatherly as she chats with Dr Jason Yates, a paediatric endocrinologist at Townsville University Hospital. Dr Yates shares his clinical and research experiences in working to improve the diagnosis and prevention of DKA and what primary healthcare practitioners need to know to better address this condition.

For many people, making decisions and a plan for future healthcare needs might feel uncomfortable or irrelevant. But, if a time comes when you're unable to make or communicate decisions about your care, an Advanced Care Plan could be crucial in ensuring your treatment is in line with your preferences, beliefs and values. For doctors and other health workers, successfully understanding and enacting an Advanced Care Plan can help you provide the desired treatment outcome for your patients.Join Round Up host, Dr Elissa Hatherly, as she chats with Cairns-based Psychologist Denise Craig about advanced care planning. Specialising in dementia and end-of-life care, Denise provides insights for primary healthcare practitioners on the recent updates to legislation, how to navigate the process with families, and other important information to ensure patients' treatment aligns with their preferences and values.

At the start of this year, the Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) Act was enacted to provide eligible Queenslanders the option to request medical assistance to end their lives in a manner that is safe, accessible and compassionate. So what has the new legislation meant for primary health care and the community?Join your host, Dr Elissa Hatherly for a follow-up conversation with FACRRM GP and JCU MBBS Alumnus Dr Max Ryder. Dr Ryder was instrumental in getting the new legislation off the ground and shares his learnings and advice for navigating the voluntary assisted dying journey.You can catch up on Dr Ryder's conversation about VAD, before the legislation was enacted, in Episode 6 of Season 1.

It might not be clinicians' favourite topic, but we need to talk about fibromyalgia; a misunderstood invisible illness that affects an estimated 2 to 5 people in every 100. This chronic widespread musculoskeletal pain is accompanied by other physical and psychological symptoms and has a delibating impact on quality of life. With no validated individual patient diagnostic criteria currently available, detecting fibromyalgia can be difficult and misdiagnosis is common.Join your host Dr Elissa Hatherly as she talks about Fibromyalgia with Dr Anna Kermond, an advanced rheumatology trainee based in Cairns. Dr Kermond discusses some of the many myths and misconceptions about Fibromyalgia and the ways clinicians can better diagnose and treat this complex condition.

Those who suffer from migraines know just how debilitating it can be, and they often look to their GP in search of solutions. Migraines affect an estimated five million Australians and are an incredibly common presenting complaint in general practice.Join your host Dr Elissa Hatherly as she talks about migraines with Dr Kimberley Forrest, a Cairns-based general neurologist and JCU Medicine Senior Lecturer. Dr Forrest discusses some of the risk factors and triggers and the best acute treatments and preventative measures primary healthcare practitioners can be offering to their patients.No matter your role in primary care, this episode is sure to provide you with useful tools and greater insight into how to better support patients with this common and debilitating condition.

Across most of Australia, rheumatic heart disease was all but eradicated midway through the twentieth century. And yet, our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities have some of the highest rates of rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease in the world. It's a disease of social disadvantage that affects old and young alike and is having a long-term impact on the health of our communities.Join your Round Up host, Dr Elissa Hatherly as she chats to Dr Ben Reeves, a paediatric cardiologist in Cairns Hospital as he shares about the vital role of primary healthcare clinicians in Closing the Gap in patient outcomes. Dr Reeves explains the impact of this prevalent disease, what clinicians should be looking out for, and some of the techniques and new technology assisting with diagnosis and treatment.

Rural Generalism offers a rewarding career with a broad scope of practice from the hospital to the clinic and continuity of care that makes a real difference to rural and remote communities. With such a diverse and important role, often in a low-resource environment, life as a rural generalist is full of both opportunities and challenges.Join your host, Dr Elissa Hatherly as she chats with rural generalist and the Head of sixth-year JCU Medicine Dr Sarah Chalmers. The Palm Island-based RG and immediate-past President of the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) shares her journey into rural generalism and a snapshot of the opportunities and challenges. She provides insight on everything from training pathways, telehealth, navigating Medicare rebates, and working with a multidisciplinary allied health team to get the best outcome for your patients.

Gout is the most common inflammatory arthritis in society and without intervention can have a long-lasting impact on quality of life. Primary healthcare providers, like GPs, will regularly see presentations of gout and need to be aware of the best treatments available for their patients.Join your host, Dr Elissa Hatherly as she chats all things gout with JCU Medicine Dr John Wood, a rheumatologist at Cairns Hospital. Dr Wood shares why gout is such a common presentation for primary care practitioners and what they should know about acute treatment options.

There are a lot of important considerations that go into ensuring our veterans get the care and support they deserve. Just as every veteran has their own story about military service, each will require a tailored approach to treatment from their primary healthcare providers.Join your host Dr Elissa Hatherly as she chats with Townsville GP and veteran, Dr Michael Clements about how to best care and advocate for veterans. Their conversation covers everything from navigating the Department of Veterans Affairs system, referrals, new claims, impairment assessments, and common conditions, to even what it means to be a veteran and how that influences the care you provide.No matter your role in primary care, this episode is sure to provide you with useful tools and greater insight into how to better support your DVA patients.

Disc prolapses and their associated symptoms can have a debilitating impact on a patient's quality of life. Compounding the problem, patients may put off seeing their doctor for treatment or have a repeat prolapse. So when is surgery the best option for your patient? Join your host Dr Elissa Hatherly as she chats with Dr Deborah Lees from Cairns Hospital Orthopaedics. Dr Lees provides helpful advice and insight on diagnosing and treating disc prolapses and how to get the best result for your patients.

Treating patients in residential aged-care facilities (RACF) is an important part of general practitioners' role in caring for North Queensland communities. Navigating RACF care can be a daunting prospect for GPs. There are plenty of considerations, like complex care needs, prescription processes, best practices on recording keeping, telehealth billing and communicating with patients, their families and care facilities.Join your host Dr Elissa Hatherly as she chats with Townsville-based General Practice owner Dr Chris Stelmaschuk. Dr Stelmaschuk provides plenty of useful tips and tricks for GPs treating patients in residential aged-care facilities.

Managing the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTOP) is not as difficult as we might imagine, but the care we provide must focus on what’s important to our patients.Join your host Dr Elissa Hatherly and learn how Mackay GP, Dr Jasmine Davis, navigates providing this service from her regional general practice. Dr Davis also works in Mackay's Sexual Health Clinic and is an advocate for access to Women's Health services across Northern Queensland.

Sleep plays an important role in our overall health and well-being. For a variety of reasons, getting a good night's sleep can be difficult, and that's where more targeted treatment may come in.Join your host Dr Elissa Hatherly as she talks to local pharmacist Karalyn Huxhagan about commonly used medications to treat insomnia, and pharmacist Glen Clark who provides insight into melatonin metabolism and its effects on sleep.

Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) will be available to eligible Queenslanders from 1 January 2023. VAD is an end-of-life choice that gives eligible people who are terminally ill the option to control the time and manner of their death through medical intervention.Join FACRRM GP and JCU MBBS Alumnus, Dr Max Ryder who chats to your host Dr. Elissa Hatherly about VAD legislation changes and how we can assist our regional, rural and remote patients at end of life.

Want to know more about treating PTSD and trauma? Tune in to the latest episode of The Round Up: A Medical Podcast and join your host Dr Elissa Hatherly who talks to guest speaker Dr Paul Henderson about who is affected by trauma, tips on starting a conversation with those affected by trauma and how to get patients started on their treatment journey.

Take a look at how asthma is being managed in the post-COVID world. 🦠Hear from Dr Pranav Kumar, who talks to Dr Elissa Hatherly about new treatments for asthma patients and provides his tips and tricks on how to manage asthma in this new era.Dr Pranav Kumar is a Consultant Respiratory Physician at Mackay Private Hospital and an expert with a broad array of experience in lung conditions. He has published research in major peer-reviewed journals and is a highly skilled clinician and proceduralist.Listen to the new episode on Spotify or online here > https://www.nqrth.edu.au/news/roundup-podcast/

Dr Gopakumar Hariharan discusses the common causes of physiological neonatal jaundice, and how to manage this in the community or in the hospital setting.

Hear from Psychiatrist Dr Paul Henderson about his personal experiences and tips for recognising burnout in ourselves and our co-workers. Take the time to test your level of burnout, and learn about ways to manage psychological pressure.

Intrauterine Contraceptive devices: when to use them, common concerns and how to best manage our patients.