The Good GP

In this episode of The Good GP, Dr Sean Stevens speaks with Dr Ramya Raman, RACGP Vice-President, GP and practice owner, and Jessica White, Chief Technology Officer at Best Practice Software, about recent government changes to the assignment of benefits process and what it means for general practice.Dr Ramya Raman discusses how the RACGP successfully advocated for an extension of the verbal consent period for assignment of benefit until 30 June 2027, following concerns raised by GPs around the country. This extension allows practices more time to adapt to new workflows and technology requirements without disrupting patient care. The enduring assignment process, especially significant for aged care and frequent care patients, is also highlighted as a practical improvement.Jessica White provides practical advice for managing the transition, recommending that practices begin preparations early rather than waiting until the new deadline. They talked about engaging with software vendors, mapping and updating current workflows, refining billing processes, and prioritising staff and patient education.Listeners are encouraged to stay informed through reliable sources and to use the transition period to prepare thoughtfully for upcoming changes.Links & Resources:RACGP: https://www.racgp.org.au/advocacy/advocacy-resources/assignment-of-benefit-and-signature-requirementsDepartment of Health: https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/assignment-of-medicare-benefits-for-bulk-billing-frequently-asked-questions?language=enMedical Director: https://www.telstrahealth.com/updates-to-telstra-health-products-to-meet-medicare-assignment-of-benefit-changes/Zedmed: https://help.zedmed.com.au/help/create-an-eclipse-invoiceThe Good GP Podcast is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/networkIf you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to thegoodgp@gmail.com. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information. You can also find us on our Instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

In this episode of The Good GP, Dr Maria Li is joined by Dr Michael Bonning, GP, former Navy doctor, immediate past AMA NSW President, and current Chair of Public Health at the Federal AMA, to discuss the increasingly relevant topic of GPs providing medical commentary in the media.Dr Bonning explains why engagement with the media is important for general practitioners, addressing the broadening definition of ‘media’ in modern practice. He notes that media exposure is not limited to traditional outlets such as television or newspapers but now commonly includes social media posts, commentary on closed professional groups, podcasts, and even op-eds. Dr Bonning emphasises that any time a GP’s comments reach more than one person, they are, in effect, representing the general practice profession.The episode covers:Why GPs should consider communicating with the media and how this helps to advocate for general practice and public health.The importance of delivering clear, accurate, and appropriate messages while understanding and respecting the boundaries of one’s expertise.A structured approach to preparing for public commentary: before, during, and after the engagement, including practical advice on signposting key points, managing uncertainty, and finishing interviews effectively.Tips for handling challenging or unexpected questions from journalists and the importance of not being forced into accepting the premise of a question.The value of situational awareness, both in-person (such as at press conferences) and when using equipment like microphones.Dr Bonning also shares practical examples to illustrate his techniques and highlights how these skills can benefit both media engagements and everyday clinical communication.Links & Resources:https://theforge.defence.gov.au/article/six-golden-rules-media-interviewshttps://preventioncentre.org.au/resources/engaging-with-the-media/https://newsroom.unsw.edu.au/sites/default/files/attachments/2018-UNSW-Media-Training-Guide.pdfhttps://www.abc.net.au/news/media-interview-guideThe Good GP Podcast is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/networkIf you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to thegoodgp@gmail.com. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information. You can also find us on our Instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

In this episode, Dr Ramya Raman is joined by Dr Paul Victor Effler, a public health physician, to discuss the current diphtheria outbreak in northern Australia. The clinical features of diphtheria, including its potential for severe throat and skin infections, and highlights the characteristic signs to watch for in general practice.Dr Effler outlines the epidemiology of the outbreak, noting its predominance in remote Aboriginal communities, and provides guidance on when to suspect diphtheria based on clinical and epidemiological clues. Recommending the use of culture and PCR swabs, as well as the importance of alerting public health authorities in suspected cases.Explaining vaccination schedules and recent updates for high-risk areas, and the vaccine’s role in preventing severe disease but not transmission. They conclude by addressing the need for ongoing vaccination in affected communities and the importance of tackling underlying factors that contribute to high rates of skin infection.The Good GP Podcast is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/networkIf you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to thegoodgp@gmail.com. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information. You can also find us on our Instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

In this episode, Dr Maria Li is joined again by Associate Professor Antonio Di Dio, GP and Director of the Professional Services Review, to discuss practical strategies for avoiding Medicare compliance issues in general practice.Key points:The crucial role of accurate, contemporaneous medical records to justify each billed item.Importance of regularly checking what has been billed under your provider number for accuracy.Effective use of documentation templates: start with templates but always individualise records for each patient encounter.Billing considerations with telehealth, especially in relation to the “3020 rule” (for telephone items).Advice on practice systems to minimise billing errors, including communicating with staff about the correct use of item numbers.Regularly consulting MBS item descriptors and educational resources, such as those offered by RACGP, to ensure appropriate billing.Guidance on using AI scribe tools, review and edit all automatically transcribed notes to ensure accuracy and appropriateness.The importance of peer discussions and knowing that PSR reviews are context-sensitive, not purely algorithmic.Associate Professor Antonio Di Dio emphasises that thorough documentation, regular billing checks, and ongoing education are the main safeguards against compliance issues. He reassures GPs that most practitioners will never be affected by PSR processes if they follow best practices.Links & Resources: https://www.psr.gov.au/Medicare compliance | Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing https://www.health.gov.au/topics/medicare/compliance/how-to-comply?language=en The Good GP Podcast is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/networkIf you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to thegoodgp@gmail.com. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information. You can also find us on our Instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

In this episode, host Dr Krystyna De Lange is joined by Dr Ashley Bowden, ACRRM registrar and exercise science graduate, to discuss the growing interest in peptides, particularly those promoted in the fitness and wellness sectors.Dr Ashley Bowden defines peptides as short chains of amino acids and distinguishes between regulated, TGA-approved peptides (such as insulin and GLP-1 analogues) and unregulated, research-use-only peptides commonly discussed online and in gyms. Exploring the demographics of peptide users in Australia, noting that use extends from athletes to recreational gym users, occupational groups, and young adults influenced by social media trends.They also addressed the limited evidence for the efficacy and safety of unregulated peptides, highlighting that most claims are based on anecdotal reports rather than robust clinical trials. Associated risks include potential side effects, the dangers of unregulated products, and complications related to injection practices.Dr Bowden provides a practical harm-minimisation approach for GPs whose patients raise questions about or disclose use of peptides. He stresses the value of a non-judgemental, curious approach to build rapport, assess risks, offer regular monitoring, and support overall patient health, while recognising the ethical complexities faced when evidence is lacking.Links & Resources:Healthy Male article: https://healthymale.org.au/health-article/peptides-australia-what-you-need-knowWebinar: Understanding the use of androgens, SARMS and peptides by Australian males: https://medcast.com.au/courses/1153The Good GP Podcast is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/networkIf you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to thegoodgp@gmail.com. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information. You can also find us on our Instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

In this episode, Dr Tim Koh speaks with Dr Grace Phua, a GP and public health clinician from the Health Department of Western Australia’s Syphilis Response Team, to provide an update on syphilis in Australia and practical guidance for general practitioners.Key Points:Changing Epidemiology: They highlight the recent increase in syphilis, with cases now extending beyond traditional higher-risk groups. All sexually active patients may be at risk, making ongoing awareness in general practice essential.Clinical Presentation: The primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary stages of syphilis, noting the diverse and often atypical presentations. Classic signs such as ulcers and rashes may vary, and neurological symptoms can occur at any stage.Screening and Testing: GPs are reminded to include syphilis serology in routine STI screening and to swab any ulcer for syphilis PCR (using a dry swab and requesting “syphilis PCR” on the form). Pregnant people require syphilis screening in early and late pregnancy, and higher-risk groups need more frequent testing.Serology Interpretation and Treatment: The use of treponemal and non-treponemal tests. Benzathine benzylpenicillin is the recommended treatment. Empirical treatment of contacts, especially for hard-to-reach patients, is encouraged.Further Resources and Support: GPs are advised to access national guidelines and decision-making aids for detailed management and to consult public health units as required.The Good GP Podcast is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/networkIf you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to thegoodgp@gmail.com. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information. You can also find us on our Instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

In this episode, Julia Rawlinson speaks with Professor Paul Little, is a Professor of Primary Care Research at the University of Southampton and a practising GP with over 20 years of clinical experience, about his landmark research on acute respiratory tract infections and its relevance for general practice.Professor Little summarises the Lancet Respiratory Medicine trial involving nearly 14,000 participants at risk of respiratory infections. The trial compared usual care, two nasal sprays (Vicks First Defense and isotonic saline), and a digital lifestyle intervention. Both nasal sprays resulted in fewer days ill, reduced antibiotic use by around 30%, and were well tolerated. The saline spray was highlighted as a first-choice option due to its effectiveness and minimal side effects.Giving practical advice on counselling patients to use nasal sprays at the first sign of illness, with discussion around challenges to adherence and the rationale for early use. They also explore the antiviral mechanism of saline spray and the continued value of stress management and physical activity in infection prevention.Professor Little discusses how setting realistic expectations about infection duration can help reduce unnecessary presentations and prescribing, and how these simple interventions contribute to antibiotic stewardship in primary care.Links & Resources:https://www.southampton.ac.uk/people/5wzg2s/professor-paul-little#publications12 month follow-up of a randomised open label trial of nasal sprays and a behavioural intervention for respiratory tract infections (RTIs) in primary care: https://eprints.soton.ac.uk/507356/The Good GP Podcast is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/networkIf you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to thegoodgp@gmail.com. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information. You can also find us on our Instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

In this episode, Dr Krystyna de Lange is once again joined by Dr Karen Spielman and Dr Rachel Kalman, GPs with a special interest in eating disorders, for part two of this series on eating disorders. Their conversation centres on the ongoing management of patients with eating disorders in general practice.Dr Kalman provides guidance on the frequency and nature of medical monitoring, including when to order blood tests and ECGs. Dr Spielman discusses how to assess and respond to medical instability, particularly cardiovascular risks and rapid weight loss, while emphasising clinical judgment and individualised care.They discuss common medical complications associated with eating disorders, such as cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and endocrine issues, along with practical tips for symptom management and patient education. The importance of the GP’s role in long-term management, continuity of care, and maintaining hope for recovery.A detailed walkthrough of the Eating Disorder Treatment Plan (EDP), addressing eligibility, use of templates, and the expanded access to psychological and dietetic support. They encourage GPs to utilise the EDP and Medicare Safety Net to make comprehensive care more accessible for patients.Dr Rachel Kalman also discusses the review of an eating disorder management plan. Please note that this review can occur via a psychiatrist or paediatrician, not a psychologist as mentioned in the episode.Links & Resources: Inside Out Institute GP Hub: https://gp.insideoutinstitute.org.auCEED Table for medical monitoring: https://ceed.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Medical-Monitoring-in-Eating-Disorders.pdfEating Disorders Family Australia: https://edfa.org.auSick Enough Book by Dr Jennifer L. Guadiani: https://www.sickenough.comThe Good GP Podcast is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/networkIf you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to thegoodgp@gmail.com. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information. You can also find us on our Instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

In this episode of The Good GP, Dr Krystyna de Lange welcomes Dr Jonathon Mitchell, hepatologist from Cairns Base Hospital, to discuss metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formally known as Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease or NAFLD. They explore the updated terminology, highlight the role of GPs in diagnosis and management, and frame MASLD as largely a metabolic rather than a primary liver disease.Dr Mitchell outlines the main risk factors for MASLD, including excess weight, metabolic syndrome, dietary quality, and family history. The importance of screening for other liver conditions in patients with abnormal LFTs, including viral hepatitis, autoimmune liver diseases, haemochromatosis, and coeliac disease.Non-invasive fibrosis assessment, primarily through the FIB-4 score, is discussed as an accessible tool for GPs. Liver biopsy is rarely required and reserved for cases with diagnostic uncertainty. Management focuses on lifestyle interventions, mainly dietary change and weight loss, with no approved pharmacological treatments currently available in Australia. Monitoring frequency depends on fibrosis status and response to lifestyle changes.They reinforce the importance of holistic care in primary practice, addressing both liver health and associated metabolic risks.Links & Resources:https://www.racgp.org.au/afp/2013/july/fatty-liver-diseaseThe Good GP Podcast is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/networkIf you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to thegoodgp@gmail.com. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information. You can also find us on our Instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

In this episode of The Good GP, Dr Sean Stevens interviews Dr John Kramer OAM, an experienced rural general practitioner and Chair of the RACGP ASD, ADHD, and Neurodiversity Specific Interest Group, they talked about the evolving role of GPs in ADHD care in Australia.Covering the recent Victorian reforms allowing specialist GPs to diagnose and manage ADHD, and what these changes mean nationally. Dr Kramer explains the current complexities of state-based stimulant prescribing regulations and ongoing efforts to establish a more consistent, national approach. Dr Stevens shares insights from Western Australia’s training initiatives, demonstrating high interest from general practitioners. Giving practical advice for GPs starting out in ADHD diagnosis and management, such as the importance of a detailed developmental history, identification of comorbidities, and collaboration with specialists.Dr Kramer concludes by encouraging GPs to consider a greater role in ADHD care, emphasising the positive impact well-supported general practice can have on patient outcomes.Links & Resources: RACGPhttps://www.racgp.org.au/advocacy/position-statements/view-all-position-statements/health-systems-and-environmental/adhd-initiation-modification-continuation-by-gpshttps://gpl.racgp.org.au/d2l/le/lessons/7367/units/13000https://gpl.racgp.org.au/d2l/le/lessons/7367/units/12650AADPAhttps://aadpa.com.au/https://aadpa.com.au/adhd-resources/https://aadpa.com.au/free-adhd-clinical-resources/OTHER SOURCEShttps://aci.health.nsw.gov.au/projects/adhd-in-general-practicehttps://beyondgp.com.au/https://aaadhdig.com.au/INTERNATIONALhttps://www.caddra.ca/https://www.additudemag.com/CONSUMER GROUPShttps://www.adhdaustralia.org.au/https://adhdfoundation.org.au/https://www.adhdwa.org/The Good GP Podcast is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/networkIf you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to thegoodgp@gmail.com. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information. You can also find us on our instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

In this episode of The Good GP, Dr Krystyna de Lange is joined by Anisa Varasteh, a clinical sexologist, psychotherapist, and former president of the Society of Australian Sexologists, to discuss the topic of female sexual dysfunction and its management in general practice.Anisa Varasteh provides a thorough overview of the multifaceted nature of female sexual dysfunction, emphasising the complex interplay between biological, psychological, relational, and social factors. Highlighting the impact of chronic stress, nervous system overload, and the relational context on sexual function. Psychological factors such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and body image concerns are explored, as well as the influence of cultural myths and social conditioning on female sexuality across the lifespan.Anisa identifies everyday factors influencing desire and arousal, including sleep deprivation, mental load, lack of pleasure outside of sex, unresolved grief, and body image issues. She shares practical strategies for GPs when supporting patients, such as normalising fluctuations in desire, exploring the biopsychosocial context, shifting the focus towards pleasure and connection, and promoting nervous system regulation. Early referral to sexologists or related professionals is suggested, as is the value of providing patients with language and frameworks to have open conversations with their partners.The episode concludes with strategies for empowering patients to discuss their sexual wellbeing without shame or guilt and the benefits of reframing intimacy outside the goal of intercourse.Potential questions to use in assessment of sexual function:What is the concern, and what does it mean to the patient?Is there distress around it?How long has it been present?What is the impact on their life or relationship?In what contexts is it not present?Have they sought help before?How is their general health and mental wellbeing?How do they feel in their relationship?Why is this a concern now?----The Good GP Podcast is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/networkIf you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to thegoodgp@gmail.com. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information. You can also find us on our instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates

In this episode of The Good GP podcast, Dr Ramya Raman, Vice President of the RACGP and GP, is joined by Dr Sean Stevens, Chair of the RACGP Digital Health and Innovation Specific Interest Group, and Dr Amandeep Hansra, Deputy Chair and esteemed digital health expert, for a discussion about the upcoming RACGP Hackathon event.Beginning with the introduction of what a hackathon is, particularly in the context of general practice. Dr Amandeep describes hackathons as intensive, collaborative events where clinicians, technologists, and entrepreneurs come together to solve real-world problems faced in general practice and develop practical solutions.The unique focus of the RACGP Hackathon on clinically-relevant issues, highlighting the importance of clinician-led innovation. Reflecting on previous events, including the significant outcomes for past participants such as product development, enhanced professional networks, and entry into healthcare innovation accelerator programs.Dr Sean mentions who should consider applying, emphasising that the hackathon is not only for those with technical expertise but is open to any general practitioners interested in innovation, regardless of experience in technology or entrepreneurship.They address the broader challenges facing general practice, including workforce shortages, burnout, patient complexity, and emerging disruptive technologies. Discussing the role of innovation and digital solutions in maintaining the central importance of general practice and improving patient care.Key event information:The RACGP Hackathon will be held in Sydney from 13th to 15th March, 2026Applications close on 29th January, 2026Successful applicants will have the opportunity to compete for a significant cash prize (to be announced) and potential entry into an innovation accelerator program.Join the RACGP Hackathon here: https://hackathon26.au/The Good GP Podcast is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/networkIf you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to thegoodgp@gmail.com. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information. You can also find us on our instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!

In this episode, host Dr Sean Stevens is joined by Dr Paul Effler, Senior Medical Advisor at the WA Department of Health and Adjunct Dr at the University of Western Australia. Dr Effler is an experienced public health physician with extensive expertise in vaccine safety surveillance and has been a longstanding member of the WHO Global Advisory Committee for Vaccine Safety.They explore the use of intranasal vaccines for influenza and COVID-19, which are now available in Australia. Dr Effler explains the mechanistic advantages of intranasal vaccines compared to traditional intramuscular injections, highlighting their ability to create mucosal immunity at the site where respiratory pathogens enter the body. Offering the dual possibility of preventing both clinical infection and onward transmission which is a key public health benefit.Practical aspects of administering intranasal vaccines in general practice are discussed, including ease of use, absence of sharps and associated risks, and specific technique considerations. Looking ahead, they also covered potential future developments in intranasal immunisation, including vaccines for RSV and pertussis, and the promise of platforms that do not rely on live attenuated virus. Dr Effler describes emerging models of self-administration and the possible implications for increasing vaccine uptake, while reaffirming the ongoing role of GPs in supporting safe and effective immunisation.The Good GP Podcast is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/networkIf you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to thegoodgp@gmail.com. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information.