The patient with cancer nearing the end of life may have a number of symptoms that can reduce quality of life, as discussed in this article by Rod MacLeod. By planning ahead with the patient and family, a combination of physical and psychological interventions can be initiated by the GP to alleviate some of these
This article, written by Samantha Simkin and Mo Ziaei, highlights the main causes of paediatric visual impairment in Aotearoa New Zealand and the important role GPs play in their early detection. It also covers the key treatments and support services available
This article outlines the evidence-based processes and protocols written by Dee Mangin for the hfam.ca website, which is the basis for the COVID-19 primary care pathway in Ontario, Canada. The information and resources provided here can be adapted and used alongside New Zealand-specific guidance
In this article, Jonathon White writes about the contemporary management of aortic stenosis. He covers the importance of detecting AS early, challenges surrounding diagnosis, indications for treatment, and how management pathways are decided on by the heart team. The definitive treatment for AS – aortic valve replacement – is described in detail
With the number of recognised rare disorders at more than 8000 and rising, their combined prevalence makes them uncommonly common. In people with these disorders, supportive, long-term, consistent and accessible contact with primary care is central and essential. This article provides a heuristic framework for the care and management of a person with a rare disorder and their whānau
This article, written by Martin Woodbridge, centres on increasing practitioners’ knowledge about drug misuse, and on advice to enhance professional judgement, attitudes and communication skills
John Mottershead describes the diagnostic headache consultation, before moving on to look at some of the different headache disorders. He provides up-to-date information on the best approaches to management of the most frequently encountered conditions, and includes a summary of non-pharmacological approaches and new treatments for headache
Menopause can be a challenging time of life for women, many of whom seek relief from distressing symptoms that affect their function and quality of life. In this article, Susannah O’Sullivan describes how to tailor treatment to each individual woman, while remembering to engage them in discussion of other midlife health considerations
Holly Teagle explains how New Zealand doctors can be part of the solution to increase awareness of hearing loss and its impact on humanity. This article covers screening, diagnosis and prevention of hearing loss, as well as how hearing loss can be effectively treated and supported across the lifespan
The International Association for the Study of Pain has designated 2021 as the Global Year About Back Pain, so it is timely to consider how to treat patients with acute low back pain in New Zealand. This article, by Cathy Chapple and Julia Hill, describes the STarT Back screening tool and matched care approach, which is based on identification of psychosocial factors that increase the risk of developing chronic low back pain
Specialist GP Nikki Vadgama provides some tips to make your next paediatric eczema consult easier. She includes a review of new guidelines, resources, websites and medications for paediatric eczema management