The Good GP

The Good GP, the education podcast for busy GPs; brought to you by Dr Tim Koh, Dr Krystyna DeLange and Dr Sean Stevens. The Good GP 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. Disclaimer: The Good GP podcasts are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always seek the advice of a specialist GP or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

  1. Preconception Care: Expert Tips for Planning a Healthy Pregnancy

    5D AGO

    Preconception Care: Expert Tips for Planning a Healthy Pregnancy

    In this episode of This Could Save Your Life Podcast, hosts Dr Catherine Bourke and Dr Anna Mullins provide an overview of preconception care, and the key considerations for GPs when supporting patients who are planning a pregnancy. Key discussion points include: Initial Assessment: Consider age, reproductive history, and duration of attempts to conceive. Referral for fertility investigation recommended for women over 35 trying for 6 months, or any age trying for 12 months, or women aged 40+.Review of Medical History: Assess chronic conditions: diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, epilepsy (and medication management), thyroid disease, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and asthma.Medication Management: Identify and remove teratogenic medications prior to conception (e.g., isotretinoin, some weight loss medications). Recognise medications that are safe/necessary during pregnancy (such as inhalers for asthma).Dietary Advice: Encourage a balanced diet rich in vegetables, lean meats, fruits, grains, nuts, and dairy; minimise processed foods.Alcohol Consumption: Advise abstinence from alcohol in the period of actively trying to conceive and during early pregnancy.Lifestyle Modification: Smoking cessation strongly recommended for both partners to improve fertility and prevent harm to the fetus and child.Pre-Pregnancy Investigations: Which include routine tests: full blood count, iron studies, electrolytes, liver and kidney function. Check immunity to rubella and varicella; advise vaccination if necessary before pregnancy.Consultation Advice: Recommending dedicated, extended preconception consultations to address medical, lifestyle, and individual patient factors. Links & Resources: For information about listeria is: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/food-poisoning-listeriaFor information about fragile x: https://www.cdc.gov/fragile-x-syndrome/index.html This Could Save Your Life Podcast is under The Good GP podcast, 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/network If 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!

    20 min
  2. JAN 21

    RACGP Hackathon 2026: Building Real Solutions for Everyday GP Challenges

    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/network If 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!

    16 min
  3. JAN 19

    Paediatric Squints in General Practice

    In this episode, host Dr Maria Li is joined by Dr Parth Shah, an adult and paediatric ophthalmologist based in Canberra and Sydney, to discuss paediatric squints, also known as paediatric strabismus. Beginning with an overview of why paediatric squints can seem daunting for general practitioners, and the importance of a systematic approach to assessment. Outlining GPs responsibilities when encountering a child with possible eye misalignment: diagnosing whether a true squint or pseudo-squint is present, assessing visual function, and determining the urgency of referral to a specialist. Practical steps for eye examination in babies, particularly at the routine six-week check. Dr Parth Shah offers guidance on inspecting eye alignment, performing the corneal reflex test using a pen torch or ophthalmoscope, and checking the red reflex to rule out conditions such as congenital cataract. As babies develop, the use of dynamic tests such as the cover test becomes more reliable, generally from three to six months of age, allowing for assessment of fixation and equal visual development between the eyes. GPs are advised to initiate urgent referral at any stage if there is concern about poor visual function, abnormal red reflex, or significant limitations in eye movement. Further exploring referral processes, noting that detailed documentation of GP observations, supported by photos or videos from parents, greatly assists ophthalmology triage and assessment. Links & Resources: http://www.squintclinic.com/https://www.schn.health.nsw.gov.au/eye-problems-children-factsheethttps://www.aapos.org/resource-catalog/educational-resourceshttps://medicinetoday.com.au/mt/2017/april/feature-article/assessing-eye-problems-children – GPs can access this article via a free online Medicine Today subscription. 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/network If 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.

    20 min
  4. JAN 12

    Beyond Needles: Benefits and Insights Into Intranasal Vaccines

    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/network If 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.

    10 min
  5. Chlamydia: Why Early Detection and Treatment Matters

    JAN 5

    Chlamydia: Why Early Detection and Treatment Matters

    In this episode of This Could Save Your Life Podcast, hosts Dr Catherine Bourke and Dr Anna Mullins discuss Chlamydia trachomatis, the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in Australia. Providing an in-depth, evidence-based overview tailored for general practitioners. Key discussion points include: Epidemiology: Chlamydia remains highly prevalent in Australia, with over 100,000 recorded cases in 2024. The majority of cases occur in individuals aged 15 to 29.Clinical Presentation: The infection is frequently asymptomatic, with 85-90% of individuals not displaying symptoms. When present, symptoms can include vaginal or penile discharge, dysuria, pelvic pain, testicular pain in men, intermenstrual or post-coital bleeding in women, and, less commonly, conjunctivitis and reactive arthritis.Complications: Untreated chlamydia can result in serious complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility in women, epididymo-orchitis in men, and other sequelae including ectopic pregnancy, premature birth, and low birth weight in affected pregnancies.Screening Recommendations: Outlining current Australian guidelines, recommending annual opportunistic screening of all sexually active women under 25, women with new partners over 25, sexually active men based on individual risk, anyone who requests screening, and individuals with a history of STIs or higher risk exposures.Treatment: Uncomplicated chlamydia is typically treated with a one-week course of doxycycline. Complicated or extra-genital infections may require longer courses or intravenous antibiotics. Contact Tracing: The importance of notifying and treating recent sexual partners (up to six months prior), offering tools such as anonymous online partner notification services to aid this process.Prevention: Reinforcing the importance of barrier protection and patient education to reduce STI transmission. This Could Save Your Life Podcast is under The Good GP podcast, 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/network

    18 min
  6. 12/29/2025

    Best practices for managing finger fractures in GP

    In this episode of The Good GP, host Dr Tim Koh is joined by Dr Jeff Ecker, an orthopaedic surgeon with over 35 years of experience specialising in complex hand and wrist conditions. Focusing on the assessment and management of finger fractures, an injury commonly encountered by general practitioners, but often associated with diagnostic dilemmas and management challenges. Dr Ecker highlights the potential seriousness of finger fractures, noting that even minor injuries can result in permanent impairment, significant hand dysfunction, and long-term complications if not managed appropriately. Discussing the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion with finger injuries, recognising that early recognition and appropriate follow-up are essential to achieving optimal outcomes. Providing the typical types of finger fractures and their clinical features. Subungual hematoma and associated terminal phalanx fractures. Mallet finger deformities (with and without fractures). PIP (proximal interphalangeal) joint injuries and their complications, such as boutonniere and swan neck deformities. Along with less common injuries around the MCP (metacarpophalangeal) joint Dr Ecker provides practical tips for clinical assessment, stressing the importance of plain X-rays in all suspected cases, and the utility of CT scans or ultrasound if there is diagnostic uncertainty or persistent symptoms. He also addresses when to refer to a specialist, focusing on signs of instability, articular involvement, or tendon injury. The episode concludes with practical advice on materials and techniques for conservative fracture management, with an emphasis on working closely with qualified hand therapists and prioritising early functional use. 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/network If 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.

    16 min
  7. 12/22/2025

    Wrist pain assessment and arthritis management in GP

    In this episode of The Good GP Podcast, host Dr Tim Koh is joined by Dr Jeff Ecker, an experienced orthopaedic surgeon based in Perth, to discuss the complexities of assessing and managing wrist conditions in general practice. Dr Ecker outlines the importance of a thorough history and clinical assessment in patients presenting with wrist pain, emphasising that pain may originate from structures beyond the wrist itself, such as the distal radioulnar joint or even referred from the neck. He highlights common causes of wrist pain that GPs are likely to encounter, including arthritis, ligament injuries, and overuse conditions, and discusses the challenges associated with diagnosis. Focusing on wrist arthritis, as a common cause of pain in older patients. He described key clinical features and examination findings, alongside considerations for distinguishing arthritis from other conditions. The approach to imaging, including the use of CT scanning to detect bony changes and calcium pyrophosphate deposition, is covered. He also outlined management options, from conservative measures, through to surgical intervention.  Dr Ecker stresses the importance of patient-centred decision making, informed consent, and multidisciplinary collaboration between surgeons, therapists, and GPs. Surgical options including arthroscopy, joint replacement, and wrist fusion are explained, with considerations for patient selection and postoperative rehabilitation. They conclude with practical advice for GPs supporting patients to maintain function and quality of life, emphasising resilience, adaptation, and the value of ongoing measurement and rehabilitation. 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/network If 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.

    17 min
  8. 12/15/2025

    Assessing and managing wrist fractures in GP

    In this episode of The Good GP Podcast, host Dr Tim Koh is joined by Dr Jeff Ecker, an experienced orthopaedic surgeon based in Perth with over 35 years of expertise in complex hand and wrist conditions. Discussing the assessment and management of wrist fractures, with advice tailored for general practitioners. Exploring the most common wrist fractures encountered in general practice, particularly among older adults after low-energy falls. Dr Ecker emphasises a careful history and examination, and attention to associated injuries to the elbow and shoulder. He also discusses the challenges of seemingly minor wrist injuries in younger patients and the need for an accurate and early diagnosis to prevent complications such as non-union and advanced arthritis. Reviewing imaging strategies, with recommendations on when to use plain X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs based on clinical suspicion and fracture characteristics. Dr Ecker calls attention to the limitations of MRI, especially in detecting ligamentous wrist injuries, and the need for ongoing clinical vigilance. They also talked about management principles for minimally displaced wrist fractures, and the practical use of back slabs, thermoplastic splints, ensuring proper hand function throughout immobilisation.  Effective analgesia choices and the critical role of rehabilitation in preventing stiffness and chronic pain syndromes were also discussed. Concluding with practical considerations for managing wrist fractures in aged care settings, reinforcing the need for individualised assessment and the avoidance of age-related bias in treatment planning. 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/network If 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.

    18 min

Ratings & Reviews

4.4
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

The Good GP, the education podcast for busy GPs; brought to you by Dr Tim Koh, Dr Krystyna DeLange and Dr Sean Stevens. The Good GP 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. Disclaimer: The Good GP podcasts are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always seek the advice of a specialist GP or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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