Why do we struggle to listen to patients properly?
In medical school, we are taught the 90-second rule: avoid talking during the initial stages of a consult to elicit the patient’s concerns and agenda.…
Medical Observer
Unique doctor-written opinion and analysis
Banning doctors using emergency powers — when regulators go too far
AusDoc recently reported on yet another case where a tribunal has overturned the medical board’s use of its immediate action powers to suspend a doctor.…
Social media thought wars aren’t an invitation for doctors to cross the line when expressing their own views
The last time we talked about the balance between free speech and professional obligations, the comments were numerous and robust (to say the least). Despite…
Opening the doors to lost worlds: me and my dementia patients
A familiar lone figure waits directly behind the security doors of the geriatric ward. There in his mint green pyjamas and long plaid overcoat he…
Is this rancid culinary ‘treat’ the best description yet for CPD and other GP exasperations?
As five-year-old Nathan’s fan club grows, and anticipation builds for his relocation to Australia, I have yet another endearing anecdote to share. He and Mama…
Naked moonlight bathing: Why do intelligent patients choose mumbo-jumbo ‘cures’ over science?
Patients who don’t believe in science puzzle me. I was reminded of one recently, after Dr Pam Rachootin wrote about being tired of patients harbouring…
‘Guess the script I’ve run out of’ — the essential GP skill that’s neglected in CPD
Mind-reading, although never formally taught in medical school, and a completely neglected topic in CPD, is an absolutely essential skill for GPs. My patient sat…
The medical board should ask two simple questions before forcing older doctors to undergo health checks
The Medical Board of Australia in trying to ‘retire’ incompetent/incapacitated senior doctors is going about it the wrong way. The board’s primary responsibility is to…
Shelve the Scope of Practice Review: My plea to Mark Butler
Dear Mr Butler, After one year and more than 1100 submissions, the long painful exercise known as the Scope of Practice Review is set to…
‘A troubled and eccentric GP with a profound vision’: The story that has stayed with me for over 50 years
There are many books that have influenced my life, starting with the Famous Five series and then the New English Bible. But during my time…
