september 2012 . Vol 80
AMA Queensland Membership Magazine
YOUR PRACTICE AND CARBON TAX
MEN’S
HEALTH FREE TO AMA QUEENSLAND MEMBERS
TALKING ABOUT ORGAN DONATION
MEDICAL STUDENT ANGST
DoctorQ SEPTEMBER 2012
1
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CONTENTS
THIS ISSUE MEN’S HEALTH WHAT WILL IT TAKE FOR AUSSIE BLOKES TO REALISE THAT PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE?
FEATURE STORy 22 LET’S TALK ABOUT... ORGAN AND TISSUE DONATION
28
8
business tools 32 CARBON TAX AND YOUR MEDICAL PRACTICE 35 THE INS AND OUTS OF BUSINESS INSURANCE CLAIMS
REGULARS 4
FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK
37 REGISTERING YOUR BUSINESS NAME
5
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
38 MAKING CASH WORK FOR YOU
6
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
7
CEO’S REPORT
32
people & events 24 AMA QUEENSLAND STATE CONFERENCE UPDATE
12 NEWS
Current issues
44 PRIVATE PRACTICE CONFERENCE WRAP-UP
17 THE NATIONAL INTERNSHIP CRISIS: QUEENSLAND’S PERSEPCTIVE
Member news 41 TELL US WHAT YOU WANT
18 MEDICAL REGISTRATION: CONFIDENTIALITY AND CONSENT 19 THE GRIM REAPER A GENERATION ON
43 OBITUARIES
30
45 INVESTING
20 HOW NOT TO USE SOCIAL MEDIA
46 TRAVEL 47 WINE
Around the regions
48 MOVIES 49 ON STAGE
28 DR WHO? CHESTER WILSON 30 PRESIDENTIAL TOUR PICTORIAL
Life
50 IN PRINT
48
50 COMPETITION WINNERS
DoctorQ SEPTEMBER 2012
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editor’s desk
BLOKES AND THEIR HEALTH BOARD OF DIRECTORS
HEATHER GRANT Doctor Q Editor Earlier this year, travelling interstate with my daughters, I picked up a disturbing voicemail message: their father was in hospital; he’d had a heart attack. Years of estrangement vanished. It couldn’t be true, I told myself: he’s only 48! Thankfully he was okay. But that incident started me thinking more generally about men and their views on health and well-being. My dear dad, rest his soul, did not want to talk to a GP about a ‘wee problem’ and left it too late, dying a hideous death from secondaries to prostate cancer. My much-loved father-outlaw, once a fierce Brothers A-grade footballer, finally agreed to a hip replacement, but only after years of barely being able to shuffle, let alone sprint to the tryline. This train of thought led to some intriguing discussions with medical
practitioners about engaging and educating blokes about health. As Dr Toby Ford says, a significant mind shift is required of doctors too, allowing general practice to evolve from an illness destination into a well-being hub. Read page 8. While on the subject of challenging practices and beliefs, take a look at Dr Neil Widdicombe’s article on organ and tissue donation (page 22: are you a registered donor? AMA Queensland is about supporting you in all facets of your professional life. This year we’re calling for your input to create a calendar of events— seminars, courses and social—that truly reflects what membership wants. Make your thoughts count. Page 41 explains how. From carbon tax and the implications on your healthcare business to changes to business registration and concerns about privacy, this edition brings you up-to-date on issues affecting your profession, now. Q
APOLOGY Last edition, our ANZAC story incorrectly showed AMA Queensland’s well-respected conference organiser Neil Mackintosh apparently wearing service medals on his right. He wasn’t! He was indeed wearing his medals with pride. We made the mistake: the photo was flipped. No slight or offence was intended. Q
Dr Sharmila Biswas Honorary Secretary
Dr Christian Rowan President-Elect
Dr David Alcorn Elected Member
Dr Sharon Kelly Chairperson
Dr John Cox Elected Member
Dr Chris Zappala Treasurer and Specialist Craft Group
Dr Richard Kidd Elected Member
COUNCIL Dr David Alcorn Greater Brisbane Area
Dr Bav Manohoran Greater Bribane Area
Dr Tom Arthur Gold Coast Area
Dr Deborah Mills Part-Time Medical Practitioner Craft Group
Dr Sharmila Biswas Far North Area Dr Kimberley Bondeson Greater Brisbane Area Dr John W Cox Downs and West Area Dr Ben Duke Greater Brisbane Area
Dr Carl O’Kane North Area
Dr Larry Gahan General Practitioner Craft Group
Dr Shaun Rudd General Practitioner Craft Group
Dr Noel Hayman Greater Brisbane Area
Dr Anil Sharma Capricorn Area
Dr Sharon Kelly Specialist Craft Group
Dr Jonathon Shirley Greater Brisbane Area
Dr Richard Kidd Immediate Past President
Dr Mason Stevenson General Practitioner Craft Group
Mr Nicholas Gattas Medical Student Group
Dr Jen Williams Residents and Registrars Craft Group
Dr Wayne Herdy North Coast Area
AMA QUEENSLAND SECRETARIAT Jane Schmitt Chief Executive Officer Filomena Ferlan General Manager Corporate Services
AMA Queensland’s Neil Mackintosh is proud to have served his country.
Colleen Harper Manager AMA Queensland Foundation
or transmitted in any form without permission. While every care is taken to provide accurate information in this publication, the material within Doctor Q is for general information and guidance only and is not intended as advice. Readers are advised to make their own enquiries and/or seek professional advice as to the accuracy of the content of such articles and/or their applicability to any particular circumstances. AMA Queensland, its servants and agents exclude, to the maximum extent permitted by law, any liability which may arise as a result of the use of the material in Doctor Q.
SEPTEMBER 2012 DoctorQ
Dr Stephen Morrison Specialist Craft Group Dr John F. Murray Full -Time Salaried Medical Practitioner Craft Group
DOCTORS IN DEFENCE REMEMBERED:
Disclaimer – All material in Doctor Q remains the copyright of AMA Queensland and may not be reproduced
4
Dr Alex Markwell President
Holly Bretherton General Manager Member Relations and Communications Andrew Turner Manager - Member Services
Editor: Heather Grant Graphic Designer: Erin Sticklen Journalist: Barbara Ferres Advertising: Taylor Hunter Doctor Q is published by AMA Queensland Contact Phone: (07) 3872 2222 Postal Address: PO Box 123, Red Hill QLD 4059 Print Post Approved PP490927/00049 Email: editor@amaq.com.au
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
“The word ‘outstanding’ would be inadequate.”
PRAISE FOR SERVICES My members are dismayed by the sudden departure of Ms Jennifer Muller, Senior Director of the state’s Cancer Screening Service. This comes at a crucial time, with the implementation of digital mammography and state-wide soft-copy reporting throughout all 11 BreastScreen services. Ms Muller has worked tirelessly to promote breast screening. Her leadership and dedication over the past two decades has resulted in a high-quality BreastScreen program in Queensland, on a par with the world’s leading services. She has also contributed to the national screening advisory body. Ms Muller has undoubtedly saved the lives of hundreds of Queensland women. Our members have been privileged to work with her over the past 20 years. We will miss her passionate commitment to the early detection of breast cancer. DR SUE FRASER PRESIDENT AUSTRALASIAN SOCIETY OF BREAST PHYSICIANS
Gordon Noscov Over the past few weeks, I suffered an unexpected serious health episode for which I was treated at the Intensive Care Units of Mackay Mater Hospital and Mackay Base Hospital. Unfortunately I do not know the names of the several doctors who treated me at the Base Hospital. Nothing would please me more to know them so that I could express my deep gratitude. At the Mater, I was in the hands of Dr Peter Bastable and Dr Tse Ming Lian. It would be hard to put into words the level of professionalism and commitment of these two doctors. The word ‘outstanding’ would be inadequate. I served on several medical committees during my career with James Cook University in Mackay and Townsville and on the Mackay Division of General Practice and can say confidently that the staff at both hospitals are both very professional and committed. GORDON NOSCOV OAM
DoctorQ SEPTEMBER 2012
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PRESIDENT’S REPORT
TOUR SHARPENS ISSUES’ FOCUS WHETHER YOU PRACTISE IN TOOWONG OR TOWNSVILLE, MOUNT ISA OR MARYBOROUGH, I CAN SAY WITH NEWLY GAINED FIRST-HAND KNOWLEDGE, WE’RE ALL FEELING THE IMPACT OF THE SAME ISSUES—AND THAT MAKES ME ALL THE MORE DETERMINED TO GET TO THE ROOT CAUSES SO THAT DOCTORS CAN GET ON WITH HELPING PATIENTS.
ALEX MARKWELL President, AMA Queensland
NEW WORLD ORDER
Over the past two months, I have been fulfilling my promise to get out and meet regional representatives and members beyond Brisbane. Consequently it’s felt like AMA Queensland staff members and I have spent more time outside Brisbane than in the office: but it has been so worthwhile! For me, the travel held two key purposes: informing me of what was going on and demonstrating that members are valued and advocated for, no matter where you are. Thank you to everyone who made me feel so welcome and for highlighting the challenges you face daily. A pictorial of the tour is on page 30.
As of July 1, Queensland Health devolved its frontline health services to 17 Hospital and Health Service (HHS) Boards, including Children’s Health Queensland. In addition, the 11 Queensland Medicare Locals have come online to “...co-ordinate primary health care delivery and tackle local health care needs and service gaps”*. In meeting many of the HHS Board chairs and chief executives, as well as Medicare Local chairs and CEOs, several things have become immediately obvious:
HHS Board chairs are experienced but not necessarily in health. There are obvious benefits to bringing external business and management experience to these boards. A fresh set of eyes and a new perspective can bring discrepancies and idiosyncrasies into sharp focus. But clinician engagement is essential. Some boards have extensively developed their clinician engagement strategies: for others, clinician engagement remains on their ‘to do’ list.
Despite the distances separating our towns and cities, the key issues are nearly all the same: A disconnect exists between primary care, community and hospital care— and patients are the ones suffering.
Clinician engagement is the glue that will keep HHS Boards on track. Without, there is a real and present danger of further fragmentation and disenfranchisement as services devolve.
Hospital capacity is inadequate, particularly in terms of mental health facilities. Elective surgery waiting lists are overwhelming. Emergency departments are overcrowded. Queensland’s health workforce is stretched thin, with staff morale at an all-time low and real concern about training capacity. This information has helped direct AMA Queensland’s policy development and informed discussions held with Health Minister Springborg and senior health officials.
Thank you to everyone who made me feel so welcome! 6
SEPTEMBER 2012 DoctorQ
!
TB OR NOT TB... THE QUESTION OF DECENTRALISATION (Terrible) puns aside, this issue is representative of our next most challenging aspect of National Health Reform— decentralisation. Minister Springborg has indicated his need to move frontline services out of central office and into the HHSs. Recent examples of BreastScreen Queensland and the Queensland Tuberculosis Control Centre (QTBCC) sparked widespread debate and unprecedented medical activism. More than 60 doctors contacted AMA Queensland directly, so concerned were they about the planned QTBCC devolution. Following a day of prominent media coverage and a meeting with the Minister, it was agreed to review the proposal.
*
Regions deserve more services but improved patient outcomes must be the ultimate goal. Some specialised services—such as TB treatment, screening and contact-tracing—need to remain consolidated, from good clinical and financial standpoints. Over the next few months, we will work with our members and Queensland Health to help identify other centrally-managed services that fit into this category with a view to larger HHS Boards ‘hosting’ such consolidated specialist services, and smaller boards purchasing these services for their patients. As always, your feedback, and suggestions are welcomed. Please call 07 3872 2222 or email me a.markwell@amaq.com.au Q
General Practice Queensland website: www.gpqld.com.au/page/Our_Network/Queensland_Medicare_Locals/
ceo’S REPORT
BALLOTS, BOARDS AND RURAL GRANTS THAT UNSETTLING FEELING BROUGHT ABOUT BY CHANGE CONTINUES AS QUEENSLAND AND INDEED AUSTRALIA COMES TO TERMS WITH NATIONAL HEALTH REFORMS AND THE IMPLICATIONS FOR THE HEALTH CARE INDUSTRY AND THE COMMUNITY—AND AMA QUEENSLAND IS RIGHT IN THE THICK OF IT.
JANE SCHMITT Chief Executive Officer, AMA Queensland After seven intensive months, ASMOFQ, AMA Queensland’s union partner, has negotiated fair and reasonable terms and conditions for a new Medical Officer Certified Agreement (MOCA) to soon be presented for ballot. The agreement, if accepted, will lay out the pay and conditions for doctors working in Queensland Health facilities for the next three years. The terms and conditions to be presented to ballot reflect the long-term goals for ongoing reform within the health sector. MOCA OFFER Key features include: 2.5 per cent annual pay rise reflecting ongoing improvements in productivity and costs of living, effective from 1 July 2012 for three years no freeze on annual increments for medical practitioners funding and incentive models for private practice to allow better access to medical services outside the terms of the agreement Further standardisation and simplification of the agreement preservation of directorial allowance entitlements for current clinical and medical administrators as an allpurpose allowance
extended hours arrangements preserving the right of senior doctors to reasonably negotiate while also ensuring access to training, quality assurance and overall services the right to refuse extreme changes to the timing of current senior doctors’ working hours an increase in current vocational trainees’ training allowance from $1500 to $2000 per annum
HOSPITAL AND HEALTH SERVICES Health services in Queensland now are delivered via 17 local Hospital and Health Services (HHS) which report into their HHS boards. AMA Queensland met with the new Board Chairs and HHS chief executives and we are hopeful these newly-appointed leaders will rise to the challenges ahead. As many of you are working in these services, we encourage your feedback and innovative suggestions. Please call 3872 2222 or email us at amaq@amaq.com.au GRANTS PROMOTING RURAL AND REGIONAL VMOS
simplification of junior doctors on-call arrangements with an improvement to on-call loading to 8 per cent for all levels
The Rural Recruitment and Retention Fund, which was negotiated as part the current VMO agreement, can disburse up to $1.5 million per year for projects that promote recruitment and retention of VMOs in rural and regional Queensland (to a maximum of $300,000 for any single application).
junior doctors’ maximum hours of duty change to 12 1/2 hours including a paid meal break
Application guidelines are set out on our website or if you wish to speak to us further about the grants, please telephone 3872 2207.
improved clarity around fatigue provisions for senior doctors.
YOUR SAY IN EVENTS CALENDAR
Given the industrial, organisational and financial challenges facing the government, we believe the current proposal is a solid outcome for doctors. ASMOFQ will continue discussions with Queensland Health about the amalgamation of allowances, classification structure and conditions for MSRPPs and MORPPs, with the aim of incorporating these into a unified award structure for Medical Officers. We will keep our members informed with developments and invite anyone with questions to contact our Workplace Relations team on 3872 2207 or email to a.turner@amaq.com.au
Given the industrial, organisational and financial challenges facing the government, we believe the current proposal is a solid outcome for doctors.
Finally, I urge members to be a part of an online survey helping identify and develop a comprehensive, relevant and fresh calendar of events and training opportunities in 2013. The five-minute survey be completed easily online at www.surveymonkey.com/s/ amaqueenslandeventsurvey By taking the time to tell us what you want, you will also be in the draw for a $1000 travel voucher. More details on page 41. I hope you enjoy the latest issue of Doctor Q magazine and thank you again for your ongoing support and membership. Q
DoctorQ SEPTEMBER 2012
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Feature story
MOST COMMON HEALTH CONCERNS FOR
MEN
CARDIOVASCULAR
STROKE CANCER
(SPECIFICALLY LUNG, COLORECTAL AND PROSTATE)
DIABETES TYPE 2
MENTAL HEALTH
8
DoctorQ SEPTEMBER 2012
MEN’S HEALTH WHAT WILL IT TAKE FOR AUSSIE BLOKES TO REALISE THAT PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE WHEN IT COMES TO THEIR HEALTH? DOCTOR Q’S EDITOR HEATHER GRANT SEARCHES FOR THE ANSWER.
Women in Australia, as in most developed countries, outlive men. There are physiological reasons behind it to an extent: such as oestrogen levels serving as a protector from heart disease and stroke while many younger males go through a ‘testosterone storm’, living the mantra ‘live fast, die young and have a good looking corpse’. Men also are more likely to work in occupations with a higher risk of potential workplace danger—such as mining, logging and construction. But as Doctor Q discovered, there’s much more lurking behind cold statistics that say an Australian man will, on average, live to be 79 while an Australian woman can expect to enjoy a further five years. A big part of the issue is male psyche: breaking down an impenetrable wall that only ‘sissies’ go to the doctor; that ‘real men feel no pain’. There are some practice-based hurdles too. Townsville’s Dr Greg Canning refers to it as a ‘feminisation’ of medical practices in terms of both staffing and setting. And there remains a school of thought that ‘men’s health’ really only refers to “their bits below the belt”, says Dr Michael Gillman, founder of Queensland’s first men’s wellness clinics.
WHEN THE OL’ FELLA’S NOT WORKING Men’s health isn’t just about the penis but, reminds Dr Michael Gillman, erectile dysfunction (ED) can be a telltale early sign that all is not well with a man’s body as it is one of the first areas of the body affected by vascular disease. Once considered a part of ageing, Gillman increasingly sees ED in young overweight men in their 20s and 30s. “It can be a psychological slap to one’s manhood, stressful for relationships but also a very useful early physical warning sign of significant hidden issues that can be prevented from developing further.”
So how can medical practitioners better engage men to help them care for their own health? The seven-minute general practice model is not the answer, Doctor Q heard time and again. “Over the years, men form many layers, like onion rings, to protect themselves from the outside world, from showing weakness,” says Dr Toby Ford, founder of Ford Health, a workplace-oriented health service that supports organisations employing more than 100,000 individuals across Australia and internationally annually. “Men learn to keep to themselves; hyper-vigilant about exposing a potential fatal flaw that could affect the career trajectory. “Trust is required to open up: and empathy. The current GP Medicare model is ‘illness’ focused, viewing an ailment that requires treatment for a cure. If something is ‘normal’, it is assumed there’s an absence of illness—but ‘normal’ trivialises an individual’s situation which is unlikely to be revealed in a seven-minute consult.”
It’s a myth that blokes don’t go to the doctor. They do, but it tends to be when they really have to – rather than preventative...
Feature story
TOP TIPS
1 2 3 4
TO ENGAGE MEN ON HEALTH MATTERS
Vary opening hours – Canning, for example, stays open on Townsville’s late night shopping night. Colleagues begin consults early for early morning starters. Consider how ‘feminine’ your waiting room is. Is there an overload of gossip magazines for example? Subscribe to a sport or motoring magazine too. Are male doctors available for consultations? Just as some women don’t want a male doctor carrying out a Pap smear, some men will clam up about the real reason for their visit if confronted by a female doctor. Women, as the guardians of family health, need to stay educated about men’s health issues.
Dr Ford has built his business around population health with a captive audience: a workforce. Workers are incentivised to look after themselves and urge each other on, tapping into the sporting team analogy. “Pull together, work together, train together, stay healthy together,” he says. “But it must be voluntary. Participants need to be able to determine their own health destiny. It’s encouraging individuals to look after their own well-being because it influences their ability to cope, adapt and decision-make.” Not every man has an enlightened workplace offering health services like dr Ford’s. So what of those? While Dr Gillman has gone the way of providing clinics exclusively for men, Dr Ford and Dr Canning both recommend looking beyond the general practice to engage men in environments where they feel more comfortable. “It’s a myth that blokes don’t go to the doctor. They do, but it tends to be when they really have to – rather than preventative—and that’s often when a condition has become chronic or serious. ‘The missus reckons I’ve got a funny-looking mole’, for example,” says Dr Canning. “The best place to learn about men’s health is in the shed, the tribal meeting house, the cave,” says Dr Ford. “Preferably talking while occupied doing something else.”
DoctorQ SEPTEMBER 2012
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Feature story
Townsville’s Dr Greg Canning encourages football fans to live healthier, like their league idols.
Dr Toby Ford, founder of Ford Health
Men learn to keep to themselves; hypervigilant about exposing a potential fatal flaw that could affect their career trajectory.
HAIR LOSS IN D’PAST A super-active form of Vitamin D could cure baldness. Japanese researchers say VD3 boosts stem cells enhancing and maintaining their ability to induce hair growth. Their findings were reported in July’s Stem Cells Translational Medicine.
Andrology Australia’s 2005 Men in Australia Telephone Survey (MATeS) provided a unique snapshot of the health and wellbeing of men aged 40 and over: 10
DoctorQ SEPTEMBER 2012
Dr Canning says Townsville-Mackay Medicare Local, for example, found less than 40 per cent of men over 15 were willing to discuss health lifestyle issues with their GPs. That’s resulted in the group taking men’s health messages to local football fans, encouraging them to exercise and live healthier, like their league idols. The federal government’s Men’s Shed initiative is proving another positive outlet for men’s health promotional messages. “Older men realise their mortality. They want to do something to stay in as good a shape as they can,” says Dr Canning. “Ultimately, what’s needed is a paradigm shift in thinking; from ‘the doctor is looking after my diabetes’ to ‘I’ve sought counsel from the doctor and I’m getting my diabetes under control’,” says Dr Ford.
2 in 5 men aged over 40 had serious health problems (e.g. heart disease, diabetes). This figure rose to 2 in 3 for men over 70 years.
About 13 per cent reported being depressed enough to interfere with daily life.
16 per cent reported significant lower urinary tract symptoms such as frequent need to urinate or difficulty passing urine.
Addressing mental health issues in men is a major—and some say, overlooked—issue. “One out of every six Australian men suffers from depression at any given time. Suicide is three or four times higher in men. If that figure was reversed, and more women were taking their lives, there would be a national outcry!” says Dr Canning. “Divorce and child custody issues are the big ticket issues affecting men’s mental health and they need support to talk it through.” But don’t call that support “counselling”, cautions Dr Ford. “Counselling sounds too namby-pamby to ‘real men’. It’s coaching! Use the sporting analogy of talking through game plays.” Q
Almost two-thirds of Australian men over 40 were overweight or obese.
1 in 3 was physically active.
7 per cent of men over 40 were risky or high-risk drinkers.
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07 5313 7500 savills.com.au DoctorQ SEPTEMBER 2012
11
news
HOW A LITTLE SACRIFICE GOES A LONG WAY A cooperative arrangement involving salary sacrificing by Queensland Visiting Medical Officers (VMOs) and Queensland Health has seen five key health projects recently receive funding totalling $630,325. Funds were made available from interest raised through a salary sacrificing arrangement involving 500 VMOs. 2012 recipients of the VMO Salary Sacrificing grant scheme were:
1 2 3 4 5
QIMR—developing a novel diagnostic tool supporting mental health, described by the institute’s Professor Frank Gannon as “a predictable disaster coming at us” The University of Queensland Healthy Communities project—undertaking a 21st century version of ‘the Boston Study’, looking at the influence of environment and surrounds impacting health, with a focus on Ipswich Princess Alexandra Hospital—funding an associate professorship for five years to pursue melanoma research The University of Queensland School of Pharmacy—funding a domestic PhD student to pursue development of a diagnostic tool to improve detection of macular degeneration AMAQ Foundation—enabling continued medical student scholarships at James Cook University, support of medical services in remote and overseas locations and of people with special health needs.
In presenting the grants, Queensland VMO Committee chair Dr Ross Cartmill said: “The life of a VMO is such that many of us find it difficult to get involved in direct research. We’re profoundly proud of our way of addressing this through our salary sacrificing grants scheme.”
SEX TALK Family Planning Queensland will run a full-day workshop on sexual and reproductive health in Brisbane on 15 September, specifically designed to increase clinicians’ confidence in communicating with, and assessing, young people. Connections is an accredited Active Learning Module with RACGP (40 Group 1 CPD points). Visit: www.fpq.com.au/pdf/ Fly_ConnectionsWorkshop.pdf for more information. Connections is also available as a resource package, including CD-ROM and DVD: find out more at www.fpq.com.au/pdf/ ConnectionsResourcePkg.pdf. Read our current issue article on STIs page 19.
FROM LEFT: Dr Greg Siller (PA Hospital), Katharine Philp (AMAQ Foundation), Dr Tony O’Connell (QHealth), Beryce Nelson (UQ), Dr Ross Cartmill (VMO), Assoc Professor Harendra Praekh (UQ) and Prof Frank Gannon (QIMR).
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SEPTEMBER 2012 DoctorQ
news
CHURCHILL FELLOW SEEKS MISSING JIGSAW PIECE
NEW STATE COUNCIL REPS
Nephrology registrar Dr Andrew Mallett is one of 22 Queenslanders and 115 Australians to receive prestigious 2013 Churchill Fellowships for an eclectic array of research topics.
Two geographic area representative positions vacant following May’s annual general meeting have now been filled. General practitioner Dr Wayne Herdy from Nambour again has stepped up as the North Coast Area representative .
The 28-year-old James Cook University Medical School graduate, now working at Princess Alexandra Hospital, will travel to France, the United Kingdom and the United States of America early next year to look at how collaborative multidisciplinary clinics, specialising in genetic kidney diseases, effectively translate research from bench to clinic.
Dr Bav Manohoran, a previous Medical Student Group representative, fills the Greater Brisbane Area council vacancy.
ON YOUR BIKE!
“I truly believe the jigsaw pieces are here in Queensland but how they’re put together: that’s the challenge,” Dr Mallett said.
Dr Andrew Mallett
“Queensland has a history of innovation within Australasia for renal dialysis and transplantation; we have world-class universities and genetic research programs; and we have centralised state-wide clinical genetics and molecular genetics services.
Dr Mallett said he was eternally grateful to Bob Prickett, the sponsor of his particular scholarship, who has funded more than 30 research projects over the years: “That is such legacy; a massive investment throughout his lifetime so far”.
“A collaborative approach to research benefits those who need it most—patients and their families—and there is just so much we don’t know about polycystic kidney disease, the most common genetic renal condition, let alone rarer conditions like Alport Syndrome and Atypical Haemolytic Uremic Syndrome.”
DID YOU
KNOW?
Calling all cyclists: sign up for the 100-kilometre Brisbane to Gold Coast Cycling Challenge on Sunday 7 October. The charity ride, organised by Bicycle Queensland, has raised more than $1 million for Diabetes Queensland and the Heart Foundation since 2005. www.b2gc.bq.org.au
The first renal dialysis in Australia took place at the Royal Brisbane Hospital in February 1954.
OLDER DOCS FEELING SQUEEZE IN AGED CARE SECTOR While Australia’s aged care sector is growing, the medical professionals servicing it are on the decline, an AMA survey has found. “Our survey shows that the medical workforce in aged care is ageing, that 15 per cent of those intend cutting back their visits over the next two years and that younger health professionals are not moving in to fill the gap,” AMA national president Dr Steve Hambleton said. “Just eight per cent of medical practitioners providing medical care in residential aged care facilities are aged under 40. “Current aged care policies ignore medical workforce issues and medical workforce planning. “The human dimension of aged care is an afterthought for policymakers.” While the average number of visits to residential aged care facilities had fallen from 8.36 in 2008 to 6.14 this year, doctors saw more patients—and spent more time with them.
DoctorQ SEPTEMBER 2012
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news
UQ TO ADOPT MD PROGRAM UNIVERSITY OF QUEENSLAND MEDICAL STUDENTS COULD SOON GRADUATE WITH THE LETTERS MD BEHIND THEIR NAME, RATHER THAN THE TRADITIONAL MBBS.
School of Medicine Dean, Professor David Wilkinson, has confirmed a Doctor of Medicine (MD) program is likely to replace the four-year Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), probably from 2015. “The MD is considered the international standard as it is the preferred level and form of program for producing entry-level medical doctors in Europe and North America,” Prof Wilkinson said. “The MD will be a four-year program, as is the MBBS, and require successful completion of a minimum three-year bachelor degree. While precise details are still to be finalised, we do not anticipate specific pre-requisites for entry: rather applicants will be welcomed from a broad range of disciplines—sciences and humanities.” The change would elevate the new medical qualification from a 7 to a 9 on the Australian Qualifications Framework. MD graduates would
spend more time in their degree conducting research or studying other aspects of medicine in greater depth, Prof Wilkinson said. He expected Commonwealth Supported Places to remain for Australian students. He also anticipated places for full-fee paying international students. The University of Melbourne is the only Australian tertiary institution to so far offer the MD program as entry-level doctor training. Other Australian universities, including UQ, have an MD which is a research-based doctorate level qualification. This is likely to be renamed Doctor of Medicine (Research). Q
Details: www.som. uq.edu.au/about/ organisation/doctor -of-medicinedegree-(md)-atuq.aspx
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CLIMATE CHANGE GETS TO THE HEART OF AUSTRALIANS AUSTRALIA COULD SAVE BILLIONS OF DOLLARS AND THOUSANDS OF LIVES EVERY YEAR BY CUTTING CARBON POLLUTION, ACCORDING TO A NEW REPORT FROM THE CLIMATE AND HEALTH ALLIANCE AND THE CLIMATE INSTITUTE.
The recently released Our Uncashed dividend: the health benefits of climate action briefing paper, jointly produced by the Climate and Health Alliance (CAHA) and The Climate Institute, and supported by the AMA and Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association, suggests that the economic costs of acting on climate change could be offset by improved public health and a decline in chronic 21st century lifestyle diseases. Instead of talking about climate action in terms of ‘cost’ with all the negativity that word carries, the report refers to ‘dividends’—benefits or bonuses in investment terms. It suggests that coal-fired power in Australia costs the community $2.6 billion a year through lung, heart and nervous-system diseases and that the annual health cost of pollution from cars, trucks and other transport using fossil fuels amounts to $3.3 billion.
Did you know? Air pollution is thought to kill more Australians every year than the road toll.
The report draws together a large and growing body of evidence from health and medical research showing substantial health benefits linked to carbon emission cutbacks. “Cleaner energy, cycling and walking, protecting bushland, creating energy-efficient buildings and low-carbon food choices all contribute to less chronic illnesses including heart and lung disease, certain cancers, obesity, diabetes and depression,” said Fiona Anderson, the report’s author and convenor of CAHA, a national coalition of health groups. In endorsing Our uncashed dividend report, AMA federal president Dr Steve Hambleton said it reinforced the association’s long-held call for a national strategic approach to climate change and health in which health professionals played an active and leading role in educating the public about the impacts and health issues associated with climate change. Q
FURTHER READING Our Uncashed Dividend and related materials www.climateinstitute.org.au AMA Position Statement on Climate Change and Health www.ama.com.au/node/4442
DoctorQ SEPTEMBER 2012
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CURRENT ISSUES
THE NATIONAL INTERNSHIP CRISIS: QUEENSLAND’S PERSPECTIVE DESPITE A SHORTAGE OF QUALIFIED DOCTORS AND WORKFORCE MALDISTRIBUTION, INCREASES IN MEDICAL STUDENT NUMBERS IN AUSTRALIA HAVE OCCURRED WITHOUT A LONGITUDINAL APPROACH TO VOCATIONAL TRAINING, RESULTING IN THE REAL POSSIBILITY THAT SOME MEDICAL GRADUATES WILL MISS OUT ON THE IMPERATIVE INTERNSHIP THAT TURNS THEM INTO QUALIFIED DOCTORS.
NICK GATTAS
AMA Queensland Medical Student Group Representative
Over 3,500 medical students will graduate nationally this year, an increase of 28 per cent since 2010 and 250 per cent since 19991. As a result, the number of internship positions has also increased, but not at a rate to meet demand. While all domestic students in Queensland have been guaranteed a job in 2013, the shortfall of more than 300 places hits international students, comprising nearly one-third of the graduating University of Queensland cohort alone. WHY THE GAP? This situation has arisen largely because of state and federal divisions in medical training and administration. Commonwealth funding determines the number of domestic medical students while local universities control international student numbers. The Australian Medical Council approves new medical schools. On the other hand, internships are salaried positions funded by state health systems; their availability limited by state budgets and existing health service infrastructure.
While all domestic students in Queensland have been guaranteed a job in 2013, the shortfall of more than 300 places hits international students...
THE ISSUES
Many issues influence this situation, but the critical ones, from my perspective, boil down to four:
1 2
3 4
ETHICALLY, many graduating international students decided to study in Queensland in 2008 based on the expectation that they would be able to complete an internship and in the process have incurred debts exceeding $250,000. Now unemployment is a real prospect in 2013. ECONOMICALLY, a medical student represents a massive investment of state and Commonwealth funds. Although international student fees meet the university’s costs, doctors in public hospitals have invested countless unpaid hours, teaching students. Not offering these students an internship prevents any return on that investment to the health system. FINANCIALLY, Australian medical schools rely on international students to subsidise their medical programs. The Medical Deans of Australia and New Zealand (MDANZ) estimate that the Commonwealth Grant Scheme underfunds domestic students by $23,500 per student per year. Without the prospect of an internship, prospective international students are less likely to study here. Without international students, medical schools will struggle to provide adequate training, teaching resources and infrastructure for all students. SOCIALLY, the health system needs clinically trained doctors, particularly in rural and regional areas. Rather than issue visas to overseas-trained doctors, federal and state governments should invest in the post-graduate vocational training of medical students trained here, developing the existing talent pipeline.
WHAT CAN BE DONE A number of solutions are available: Cap the demand until it is clear that every existing medical student has the opportunity to complete a quality internship Fund more internships in the private system as well as regional centres such as Bundaberg, Rockhampton and Townsville Invest adequate Commonwealth funding to properly fund medical schools as clearly, the reliance on international students is not sustainable
Communicate clearly with prospective international students about their real post-graduate training opportunities in Australia. Failing the above, current international students do have a contingency plan: they can apply for internships overseas in New Zealand, Singapore, Canada and the United States. But with them goes skills and knowledge Australia really needs. Q
DoctorQ SEPTEMBER 2012
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CURRENT ISSUES
MEDICAL REGISTRATION: CONFIDENTIALITY AND CONSENT WITH REGISTRATION OF MORE THAN 80,000 MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS AUSTRALIA-WIDE DUE BY 30 SEPTEMBER, QUESTIONS ARE BEING RAISED ABOUT WHAT INFORMATION THE MEDICAL BOARD OF AUSTRALIA MAY BE GATHERING
ANDREW TURNER
Workplace Relations Manager, AMA Queensland
When doctors seek registration, the Medical Board of Australia (MBA) is expected to undertake full and frank investigation of applicants to ensure candidates pass the public interest test and that they are of ‘good character’. In making this assessment, the MBA is within its rights to request additional documentation, evidence and to contact third parties to verify information in the application. But should an applicant know of any third party involvement? A situation recently came to AMA Queensland’s attention of the MBA investigating a complaint against a doctor. The board sought information from external bodies and interested parties without the doctor’s knowledge—until a third party brought the matter to the doctor’s attention. AMA Queensland contends that the allencompassing powers held by MBA relating to potentially private information should be subject to limitations. Specifically, AMA Queensland wants an amendment to the
...the right to investigate a candidate without their knowledge, or right of refusal, potentially invades the individual’s privacy and confidentiality. 18
SEPTEMBER 2012 DoctorQ
current registration form so that a doctor’s prior consent is required before the MBA can seek information from third parties. Currently, an application form submitted to the MBA must be signed by the candidate, with the doctor accepting and acknowledging MBA’s right to seek further information from third parties. The medical practitioner general registration form states: “information provided may be forwarded to other persons and agencies for workplace planning, information management and communication, criminal history and identity checking and other purposes”. Likewise, the MBA can investigate a notification of complaint about a doctor’s conduct to determine whether the notification has merit. However, the notification form contains a statement that the health practitioner may be sent a copy of the complaint. In the case brought to AMA Queensland’s attention, this did not occur. The medical practitioner learnt of the complaint, and ensuing investigation, from an interested party.
The MBA will attest that its powers to seek information are necessary. AMA Queensland asserts that the right to investigate a candidate without their knowledge, or right of refusal, potentially invades the individual’s privacy and confidentiality. The right of the doctor to be informed of such a process is paramount. If information is requested by the MBA of outside bodies, then it is the obligation of the MBA to seek the consent of the doctor. While the MBA does have a public interest in ensuring that registration is granted to those candidates of good standing, this imperative in no way should override doctors’ right to privacy. Q
Medical practitioners can update contact details and renew their registration online: https://www.ahpra.gov. au/Login.aspx
CURRENT ISSUES
THE GRIM REAPER: NOT SO SCARY A GENERATION ON WITH HIV/AIDS AND SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS ON THE RISE, IT SEEMS A GENERATION OR TWO HAVE MISSED—OR FORGOTTEN—THE SAFE SEX MESSAGE. WHAT CAN A NEWLY-APPOINTED ADVISORY GROUP DO TO TURN THE TIDE?
BARBARA FERRES
Media Officer, AMA Queensland
They were striking images that terrified a generation in the late 1980s: the Grim Reaper, magnificently dark and sinister, knocking down thousands of innocent men, women and children. While the characters were fictional, the message was real: unprotected sex meant fornicating with death. HIV/AIDS had reached Australia and while dismissed early on as ‘the disease of gay men and drug addicts;, the Grim Reaper’s presence in 1987 forced the entire community to face facts. This disease was not so limiting. Mass panic was the prescription doled out (some say bravely) by the Australian Government and health administrators of the day. Anyone engaging in sexual activity, regardless of age or orientation, needed to be shaken from their apathy and have the pants scared back on them. It worked. Following the controversial campaign, the rate of new HIV infections fell from about 2500 per year in the mid 1980s to less than 500 per year within a decade... until now. RAMPANT INFECTION RATES The latest statistics on sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV/ AIDS are frightening. According to the 2011 Kirby Institute Surveillance Report, Queensland’s HIV diagnosis rate has almost doubled since 2001 to 5.4 per 100,000 people in 2010. So concerned is the Queensland Government that Health Minister Lawrence Springborg recently announced a new Ministerial Advisory Committee on HIV/AIDS to reinvent the Grim Reaper message of safe sex for a new audience. Cairns Sexual Health director Dr Darren Russell heads the nine-member advisory committee, an eclectic group
representing the gay and lesbian communities, small business operators, media and health promoters, and sex workers; all bringing diverse perspectives to meet a safe sex health promotion imperative—to reverse Queensland’s steeply increasing infection rates.
Syphilis, easily prevented by practising safe sex and treated with penicillin, is rampant in remote indigenous communities with 146 cases reported in the Mount Isa region last year alone.
Infections such as chlamydia, herpes and warts are spreading among young people like a party invitation on Facebook.
TREND NOT ON
And they have $2.6 million at their disposal to achieve their mission. “Challenging times lies ahead with new trends in testing and treatment, which may well be part of the future to reduce the numbers of new HIV infections in Queensland,” Dr Russell said. Worryingly, the spike in HIV/AIDS transmission may only a warning signal of a much larger problem. Infections such as chlamydia, herpes and warts are spreading among young people in their teens and early twenties like a party invitation on Facebook. For instance, chlamydia infection rates among Queensland young women under the age of 19 are growing by an average 50 per cent per year. About 19,000 cases were notified in 2010.
Mount Isa and Townsville Health Service District’s Dr Arun Menon said heterosexual youth aged 15 to 24 were most affected by the latest syphilis outbreak.
Family Planning Queensland’s medical director Dr Caroline Harvey has put the rise squarely down to the lack of compulsory sexuality and relationship education in Queensland school curriculum. “Without access to information, young people are highly vulnerable to unwanted sex, sexual violence, unplanned pregnancies and STIs including HIV,” Dr Harvey said. “If the government is serious about taking action, it needs to make universal sexuality and relationships education a priority for investment. Without it, we are leaving the health and well-being of Queensland young people at risk.” Perhaps it is time to invite the Grim Reaper back to town. After all, if the door is left open to HIV/ AIDS and STIs, you never know who might sneak in...Q
In 2011, the United Nations, urged by Australia, agreed to a bold new Declaration to fight HIV/AIDS transmission, setting ambitious prevention targets for the global community to reach by 2015 including a 50 per cent reduction in sexual transmission of HIV.
DoctorQ SEPTEMBER 2012
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CURRENT ISSUES
ONE FACEBOOK POSTING NOT ‘LIKED’ FACEBOOK STARTED OUT AS A WAY OF KEEPING IN TOUCH WITH FRIENDS. IT’S EVOLVED INTO AN EFFECTIVE WAY OF PROMOTING BUSINESS—BUT IT CAN ALSO CAUSE ILL-WILL AND ANGST WHEN MISUSED.
HEATHER GRANT
Editor, Doctor Q
Friday 29 June 2012: 303 Queensland Health grant recipients learnt of their funding status for the next financial year—just two days shy of the 2012-13 financial year. The service providers did not receive a phone call from their departmental contacts, nor an email; and certainly not a letter in advance giving them heads-up. Queensland Health announced their fate by posting a spreadsheet on its corporate Facebook page. Call me old-fashioned but such an announcement is surely on a par with changing one’s relationship status on Facebook to ‘single’: it’s downright bad manners. Because, at the end of the day, these service providers are people, providing human services. For some, like one of the bigger ‘losers’, Family Planning Queensland, media calls asking for reactions to the decision were the first they knew. FPQ lost $750,000—effectively onethird of its outreach and education expenditure focused largely on frontline regional and rural family planning and sexual health services.
Queensland Health announced their fate by posting a spreadsheet on its corporate Facebook page. “We were certainly befuddled by the announcement via Facebook and the decision because FPQ’s work in primary prevention and education services reduces the squeeze on an already overburdened health system,” FPQ communications director Janelle Weissman told Doctor Q. “FPQ had received no written advice by close of business on Friday 29 June – and yet the Facebook posting was all the talk that afternoon. “It was extremely distressing for staff. A week earlier, we had received verbal advice that a sexual health education program we had delivered in prisons would continue. On 29 June, it was defunded; instantaneously axed by the stroke of a pen.” Community groups working in the mental health sector, indigenous health organisations and ‘healthy lifestyle’ program co-ordinators in rural divisions of
general practice organisations statewide were among those to be left penniless. According to Queensland University of Technology Business School social marketing guru Professor Rebekah RussellBennett, the “surprise” element most offended those affected. “Information has been delivered in a manner the service providers were unprepared for and they feel a psychological contract breach,” she said. “From risk management and relationship building perspectives, for those whose current funding was affected, formal advice or notice ahead of a public announcement would have been a more appropriate, indeed ethical, way of handling this communication.” But Prof Russell-Bennett forecast that Facebook posts of decisions, while “cold and impersonal” were likely to become the way of the future. “Such postings are not uncommon— Australian Research Council grants, for example, are announced this way— however the difference is that the method of communication is known up-front: it’s expected,” she said. Q
Find Queensland Health on Facebook at: www.facebook.com /QLDHealth 20
SEPTEMBER 2012 DoctorQ
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DoctorQ SEPTEMBER 2012
21
Let’s talk about...
ORGAN AND TISSUE DONATION
INTENSIVE CARE PHYSICIAN DR NEIL WIDDICOMBE GOES MYTHBUSTING ON A SUBJECT MANY QUEENSLANDERS (EVEN MEDICOS) WOULD PREFER NOT TO THINK ABOUT…
A week is unlikely to go by without my intensive care specialist colleagues facing the family of a patient for whom all hope of ‘life’ has been vanquished by an unforseen catastrophic event and asking ‘would your loved one want to donate his/her organs?’
“I joined the ICU to save lives. If we cannot save an individual’s life, we may still be able to save others through donation.” Dr Neil Widdicombe
5
Amid the anxiety and grief of that time, many families, especially those who have not previously discussed organ and tissue donation, find it hard to say an emphatic ‘Yes’. At such times, my colleagues and I respectfully offer all the information a family needs to make an informed decision. These consultations are never easy—emotional stress runs high—but they could be easier if the clock had turned back and the topic had been discussed: if families knew their loved ones’ wishes. Sadly, advanced health care planning, and end of life wishes and care, including organ and tissue donation, remain subjects many would rather not think of, let alone talk about. But talking about organ and tissue donation is exactly what’s needed. It was talked up at the recent Australian Medical Students Association conference—med students have been encouraged to walk the walk and register their intent. It will be talked up for a time during the National DonateLife Week next February. But it’s not a conversation that should be contingent on campaigns.
MYTHS PUT TO REST
1
I ticked my driver’s licence years ago. Everyone knows I want to be a donor.
Whilst surveys show that 80% of Australians support transplantation and donation, only a minority of us have formally registered our wishes. It is one of those things that most of us just do not get around to doing. The driver’s licence only showed intent to be a donor. Registration on Australia’s National Organ Donor Register is much more explicit and denotes consent. It’s quick and easy—and can be done online http://www. humanservices.gov.au/customer/services/ medicare/australian-organ-donor-register
2
I am too old or unwell to be a donor.
You are never really too old. Having a chronic condition such as diabetes, hypertension, auto-immune-disease, infection—even cancer — is not necessarily a contraindication to being a donor. Being overweight or a smoker does not exclude you being a donor. The majority of our organ donors are middleaged people, suddenly struck down by a catastrophic event like a stroke or cardiac arrest. Nationally in 2011, the mean age of organ donors was 47.8 years, with a range between 3.2 and 85.5 years.
Doctors are just waiting for my loved one to die to take everything they can.
3
Only when all chances of survival of a patient have been exhausted can organ donation be offered after death. Professional clinical and ethical standards, as well as legislation, govern the practice of organ donation and transplantation. Surgeons involved in the care of a potential transplant recipient patient cannot be directly involved in the care of patients who could be potential donors. In Queensland, an organ is only removed if a suitable recipient has been identified.
4
It’s against my religion.
Most religions support organ and tissue donation as an act of charity and goodwill. The DonateLife website sets out the stance of different faiths: www.donatelife.gov.au/ discover/religion-a-donation
Best of all, tell those close to you about your wishes.
22
SEPTEMBER 2012 DoctorQ
WHAT CAN BE DONATED?
HEART TISSUE INCLUDING VALVES
HEART
Feature story
WHEN ALL HOPE IS GONE FROM A MEDICAL PERSPECTIVE Two processes enable a patient to donate organs after death: BRAIN DEATH: Vital function organs are maintained solely by the continued use of a ventilator; the determination/declaration of death is based on defined criteria demonstrating irreversible loss of brain function.
In 2011,
337 1001
organ donors gave Australians a new chance at life.
1600
people are on Australia’s organ transplant waiting lists.
Organ donation has to happen in big hospitals where the transplant will take place.
Wherever possible, Queensland’s donor retrieval system works in a localised way. That means the organ donor’s family will usually be in or near their hometown, surrounded by their support network. Medical and surgical teams from Queensland’s Prince Charles or Princess Alexandra hospitals will travel to regional centres to retrieve organs from donors.
USEFUL PROFESSIONAL RESOURCES Donate Life’s GP education kit www.donatelife.gov.au/resources/forhealth-professionals/gp-education-kit AMA Position statement on organ and tissue donation http://ama.com.au/ node/7859
LUNGS
LIVER
FROM A FAMILY PERSPECTIVE What really is happening is the loss of hope—the acceptance of the inability of medicine to be able to restore or return their loved one to them. Organ donation can only be offered after all hope of restoring a patient to their family is gone.
Around
5
CARDIAC DEATH: Such patients have non-survivable conditions but continued use of vital system support, such as ventilation, is futile: neither in the best interest of the patient nor consistent with good medical practice. In such cases, with consent of the family, life support is withdrawn and the patient subsequently dies as a result of their underlying non-survivable condition.
PANCREAS
MY DAD’S
GIFT TO OTHERS As told to Heather Grant
Medical student Kate Engelke, 21, brings a unique perspective to the discussion on organ and tissue donation. Her dad became an organ donor after a car accident during a family holiday ten years ago. “My maternal grandmother had to make the decision to turn off the life support—Mum was not in a state to be able to, with her own injuries. My grandmother maintained that my father had lived life as a generous man. That gutsy decision saved six lives. Six people in Australia can thank Dad for giving them another chance at life or a better quality of life.” Kate, a registered organ and tissue donor since she turned 16, says talking about organ and tissue donation should be neither too medicalised nor over-romanticised. “But it needs to be talked about, at home or in schools, casually. It doesn’t need to be scary. The very worst thing is to leave the decision for grieving relatives whose emotions can overwhelm their thinking.”
KIDNEYS
CORNEAL AND EYE TISSUE
That gutsy decision saved six lives.
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STUART TAIT
Family Care Medical Services
Australia’s leading medical deputising service, Family Care Medical Services, provides after hours coverage to more than 5.5 million patients each year. More than 2700 GPs in south-east Queensland and Sydney subscribe to the AGPAL-accredited house-call service, ensuring their patients can receive continuity of care when illness strikes ‘after hours’—defined by the Commonwealth as 4pm to 8am Monday to Friday, from 10am on Saturdays and 24 hours on Sundays and gazetted public holidays. Further ensuring continuity of patient care, Family Care Medical Services provides electronic patient reports to practices the next working day, in line with RACGP standards. Copies of referrals, pathology and other investigations are also automatically provided.
Further ensuring continuity of patient care, Family Care Medical Services provides electronic patient reports to practices the next working day, in line with RACGP standards.
In a recent development, Family Care Medical Services has partnered Patient Connect, a medical alarm and remote health monitoring provider enabling patients living with multiple chronic diseases to live independently at home, while their health status is constantly monitored, connecting to day-time general practice and home nursing, after hours home visiting doctors and the Queensland Ambulance Service when needed. Family Care Medical Services also works with HCF, Australia’s third largest health fund, to provide no-gap access to members within Family Care Medical Services’ coverage areas. The Medical Directors of Family Care Medical Services are Dr Beres Wenck (Principal Medical Director), Dr Rajendra Prakash (Brisbane), Dr John Buckley (CPD & Training QLD), Dr Trevor Beall (Sunshine Coast), Dr Harry Ratnam (Ipswich) and Dr Joanna Tait (Surgical). Find out at the AMA Queensland conference how Family Care Medical Services could enhance your practice—and personal life—or visit its website for more information: www.familycare.com.au Q
WIN!
A $1000 voucher with AMA Travel Queensland! AMA Queensland offers its members a diverse series of seminars, courses and events throughout the year. We are beginning our planning for the 2013 events calendar and request the input of our
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members, so tell us what events you want more of and go in the draw for some great lucky draw prizes including a $1,000 voucher with AMA Travel! Find out how on page 39!
Providing world-class after hours primary medical care
Quality ISO 9001
www.familycare.com.au
Call 13 SICK (7425) DoctorQ SEPTEMBER 2012
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AROUND THE REGIONS
JOIN YOUR LMA
LOCAL MEDICAL ASSOCIATION ROUND UP
STAY CONNECTED WITH COLLEAGUES AND UP TO DATE WITH THE LATEST HEALTH NEWS AND ISSUES AFFECTING YOUR LOCAL AREA. DON’T STAND ON THE SIDELINES —JOIN YOUR LOCAL MEDICAL ASSOCIATION TODAY AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
SUNSHINE COAST
BUNDABERG
Monthly dinner meetings are generally held on the fourth Thursday of each month.
For information on meeting dates and how to join, contact Bundaberg LMA President Daud Yunus.
Venue: Maroochydore Surf Club Function Room, Alexandra Parade, Cotton Tree
Phone: (07) 4152 2888 Fax: (07) 4153 3245
Time: 6.30pm for 7pm Convenor: Jo Bourke Phone: (07) 5479 3979 Fax: (07) 5479 3995 Email: jobo@squirrel.com.au
Email: daud.yunus@gmail.com
FRASER COAST
For further information or to join visit www.sclma.com.au
For information on meeting dates and how to join, contact Fraser Coast Local Medical Association President Dr Shaun Rudd.
REDCLIFFE & DISTRICT
Address: PO Box 1347, Hervey Bay, Qld, 4655 Phone: (07) 4128 3644 Fax: (07) 4124 0660
Remaining meeting dates for 2012 18 September
24 October
Venue: Golden Ox Restaurant, Redcliffe Time: 7pm for 7.30pm Convenor: Margaret MacPherson Phone: (07) 3409 4429
BRISBANE NORTHSIDE
TOOWOOMBA For information on meeting dates, go to www.tddlma.org.au or email info@tddlma.org.au Membership of the Toowoomba and Darling Downs Local Medical Association is just $50. To join, download the application form at www.tddlma.org.au/membership.html
Remaining meeting dates for 2012 9 October
11 December
Convenor: Michael Madden
GOLD COAST
Phone: (07) 3121 4032
For information on meeting dates, go to www.gcma.org.au or email info@gcma.org.au
Email: michael.madden@qml.com.au
A membership application form can be downloaded from our site.
For further information or to join, visit www.northsidelocalmedical.wordpress.com
Phone: (07) 5575 7054 Fax: (07) 5575 7551 Email: info@gcma.org.au
CAN’T FIND YOUR LOCAL AREA?
If your Local Medical Association does not appear above or your details are incorrect, please email Kathleen Latchford at k.latchford@amaq.com.au with corrections, contact details, how to join, web address, dates for upcoming meetings and who to contact for further information. DoctorQ SEPTEMBER 2012
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MEMBER AROUND PROFILE THE REGIONS
DR CHESTER WILSON
DOCTOR
WHO?
AMA QUEENSLAND CITATION RECIPIENT DR CHESTER WILSON OAM IS SOMETHING OF A LEGEND IN THE STATE’S SOUTH-WEST...AND NOT JUST FOR HIS MEDICAL SKILLS! AS TOLD TO HEATHER GRANT.
I did get a call- out one night to use an old colonoscopy to find a lost nut in a bulldozer’s final drive.
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AROUND AROUNDTHE THEREGIONS REGIONS
Q What attracted you to general practice?
Q Describe your practice now.
Variety is the spice of life! I didn’t want to limit myself to doing one thing for the rest of my life.
It’s a bush family practice with rooms for four doctors—and three vacancies. A trainee works half time with me, and half time at Charleville hospital.
Q You’ve been practising in Charleville since 1978. What drew you there? I’d been in Canberra, chipped ice off the windscreen on that particular day and came across a sign for Bourke (in northern New South Wales). I’d never been there, so I drove to Bourke. That led me to Cunnamulla, where I stayed overnight. The medical super of the day, Peter Stewart, told me of an opening up the road in Charleville. I didn’t have a job to go to at the time—I was heading home to Ipswich—so I thought ‘check it out’. I stayed with Dr Rob Stable who was medical super at Charleville, had my first bore water shower—which should have been enough to put me off!—and met the town’s general surgeon, Dr Lou Ariotti. We agreed we could work together and the rest is history. Q What cinched the deal? Lou Ariotti was a pillar of the Catholic Church and was impressed by a reflection of my father’s practice in Ipswich. On his 8” by 5” patient cards, my father wrote ‘LWR’ for families of other doctors, clergy and those in need. This was pre-Medicare days. It meant no charge: ‘Lord Will Reward’. Lou felt this was an excellent background for a young doctor!
A lot of things that attracted me to Charleville are no longer available. We had a competent general surgeon who could do everything and I was able to anaesthetise anyone from a neonate to centenarian. Now it’s all about being credentialed. I regularly update my proficiency certificates in endoscopy, obstetrics and gynaecology including caesarean sections, anaesthetics, ultrasound and emergency medicine. We looked after all babies from 28 weeks— indeed, the first neonatal transport in Queensland occurred just before I came here, using the Premier’s plane. I’m a designated aviation medical examiner and the district government medical officer. I used to do post-mortems too. In my more cynical moments, I feel the emphasis is on holding a piece of paper rather than caring for the patient. Litigation is a real fear that has dramatically changed the practice of medicine. Q Life hasn’t been all work and no play though, has it? (Laughter) I might like to play like a 30-year-old but I pay for it later! I am possibly Australia’s second worst banjo player, playing in a band called Ned and the Kellys. We play bush and folk, then
FAR LEFT: Dr Chester Wilson with his fan club (from left) Jenny Johnson, Anne Chater, wife Lois and AMA Queensland past president Dr Zelle Hodge. LEFT: Dr Chester Wilson chose general practice because ‘variety is the spice of life’.
degenerate into rock and roll for an indefinite time afterwards, and enjoy it. Being in a rural town, you do get involved in community. My beard was once shaved for $17,000 for the Royal Flying Doctor Service. The hair and beard has been coloured blue, red, green and yellow for the Leukaemia Foundation. The colour these days is thanks to the vagaries of nature. Q You’ve also had to use your expertise in some less than orthodox ways, I’m told. I did get a call-out one night to use an old colonoscopy to find a lost nut in a bulldozer’s final drive. That saved a complete strip down, earned eternal gratitude and a carton of Stone’s Green Ginger! I applied my computer skills to create a device using GPS tracking, installed on a patient’s wheelchair. It provided a safe zone for travel but would shut down— after some warning—if he ventured near the highway. Truckies deal with road kill enough—with roos jumping out, they didn’t need a recalcitrant patient on the highway. Q You’ve been a member of the AMA for 25 years? Why? What benefits does it offer? Why would you recommend membership? The AMA has always been the medical trade union. It provides some useful facilities, from legal people to practice and human resource management advice. Q
RIGHT: Accepting his AMA Queensland citation, Dr Chester Wilson broke out into song...as he does. FAR RIGHT: Playing a gig with Ned and the Kellys at Inglewood. DoctorQ DoctorQ SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 2012 2012
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AROUND THE REGIONS
MARKWELL MAKES TRACKS
na also e visits from ’s ll e arkw k-you Dr M sonal than resident p d per n nsla l mem Quee ns to loya A M io A ntat prese
DR ALEX MARKWELL HAS SET A CRACKING PACE IN HER FIRST QUARTER AS AMA QUEENSLAND STATE PRESIDENT EMBARKING ON A STATEWIDE LISTENING TOUR.
So far she has covered Wide Bay, Townsville, Cairns, Toowoomba, Gold Coast, the Burnett and Mount Isa.
Mount Isa
Her observations? “Every region is struggling; some more than others. I’ve appreciated the passion with which issues have been spoken and I’m moved by the tenacity of colleagues in hospitals and in community. “What the touring has done is arm me with information to better argue for change and I hope also create a connection between colleagues from different spheres of practice.” By the end of August, Dr Markwell will have visited 13 of the 17 Health and Hospital Board districts with the remainder in her sights before year’s end.
Dr Adrian Barrett a nd Dr Dale S ebire
and hitra elpac eron D h et am Dr S r Suzie C D
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DoctorQ DoctorQ SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 2012 2012
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BUSINESS TOOLS
CARBON TAX AND YOUR MEDICAL PRACTICE POLITICS AND THOUGHTS ON CLIMATE CHANGE ASIDE, AUSTRALIA’S NEW CARBON TAX WILL AFFECT BUSINESSES OF ALL SIZES: MAKE NO MISTAKE ABOUT THAT, SAYS WILLIAM BUCK’S JULIE SMITH. Julie Smith William Buck (07) 3229 5100 julie.smith@williambuckqld.com.au
While the Clean Energy legislation that came into force on 1 July 2012 primarily focuses on large emitters, some uncertainty still surrounds the extent of the carbon tax’s knock-on impact on other businesses of all sizes —including medical practices—across Australia. THE EFFECT OF CARBON TAX ON YOUR BUSINESS Increased running costs will be the primary impact of the carbon tax on your practice. Due to the heavy emissions involved, it is expected that the cost of inputs such as gas and electricity will increase as a result of the carbon tax. Depending on what you need to run your practice, the full flow-on effect of other cost increases may not be known for some time. For example, if some medical supplies are energy-intensive in their manufacture, this tax may have an impact on their cost. TIPS FOR MANAGING THE IMPACT OF INCREASING COSTS For anticipated costs, such as electricity: Review your past usage and costs so that you know what to expect. Understanding previous usage patterns will help you determine the amount of any likely cost increase. Shop around for the best deal. Electricity providers will have different approaches to dealing with consumer sensitivity to cost increases. Now is the time to seek a better deal. Consider whether there are viable ways to reduce your usage. A fresh look at how you run the practice may provide some costs savings. As for the “unknowns”—those products and services for which the flow-on impact is still unclear—we suggest the following: Review your costs to identify those that may be vulnerable to cost increases. Determine the usual costs of these items and monitor any increases.
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In most well-run practices, practice managers have a comprehensive understanding of running costs. Use their expertise to assist in monitoring the impact of any cost rises— they will identify them and help to identify the best course of action. FUTURE PLANS One area that is often overlooked regarding the carbon tax is its impact on key business decisions. For example, some practices may be considering a significant refurbishment, or a rebuild of practice premises. Others may be considering the purchase of significant equipment for the practice. If this is something that you are currently negotiating, or considering for the future, it will be important to consider the impact of any increase in prices due to the carbon tax. For example, construction prices may be affected due to the increased price of steel and other building materials. CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR The carbon tax, at its core, works on the principle that nothing affects consumer behaviour better than price. It expects that businesses will change and adapt to maintain their competitive advantage. Your response to the carbon tax needs to focus on this core principle. Understand your business now so that you can identify well in advance any changes that need to be made and, with your accountant’s professional input, subsequent flow-ons to your own costs and pricing. Q
DISCLAIMER: This article is intended to be general in nature and should not be relied upon by any person without seeking advice concerning their own circumstances.
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www.amaqis.com.au
Insurance renewal time getting you down? Let’s face it insurance is boring. But necessary. We know doctors have a busy schedule, and while it may be easy to renew your insurance each year without proper revision, changes may have occurred for which you may not be fully covered and premiums need competitive comparison. For peace of mind and taking the yawn out of renewal time, contact AMA Queensland Insurance Solutions.
All insurance needs covered for all members through AMA Queensland Insurance Solutions.
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AMA Qu eenslan d Insuran ce Solution Your Ins s urance Speciali sts
For more information phone: 1300 883 059
SEPTEMBER 2012 DoctorQ
BUSINESS TOOLS
THE INS AND OUTS OF BUSINESS INSURANCE CLAIMS BASED ON THE LAW OF AVERAGES, YOUR BUSINESS WILL EXPERIENCE A ‘RAINY DAY’ SOME TIME REQUIRING A BUSINESS CLAIM TO BE MADE. AMA QUEENSLAND INSURANCE SOLUTIONS’ SCOTT STEWART SAYS THAT’S WHEN IT PAYS TO KNOW EXACTLY WHAT TO DO. Scott Stewart AMA Queensland Insurance Solutions 1300 883 059 scott.stewart@amaqis.com.au
Whether it be due to accidents, natural disasters, fire, crime, or property damage, lodging a business insurance claim on your own can be a daunting task. First check the excess payable on your insurance policy: is it worth making the claim? For example, if the excess under your policy is $500 and your total loss was $550 excluding GST, your total recovery will be only $50. But the claim may affect your no-claims bonuses, sending your premium on renewal up. Once you have weighed your options and decided on filing a claim, notify your broker or insurance company as soon as practical: the earlier the notification, the quicker the claim’s resolution will be. VISIBLE EVIDENCE Before cleaning up, take photographic evidence of any damage and make notes about all damaged, destroyed or stolen property. The more detail you log at the time, the more accurate and consistent your recollection of the event will be as time passes. In the case of a claim involving fire, the attending fire service will provide you with an incident report number. If the claim is for theft or malicious damage, you will need to contact your local police station if they haven’t already been in attendance to obtain a police report number relevant to your case. Record and keep these numbers in a safe place as the insurance company will need this detail as part of their claims’ lodgement.
GETTING QUOTES Insurers will generally allow you to proceed with emergency repairs to secure or make safe your premises and to prevent further damage but don’t go ahead with significant repairs without your insurer’s say-so. Some policies also provide for onsite security after an event until the premises has been made secure. Always refer to your policy’s wording or contact your broker to confirm what benefits are available under your policy. Once your premises is secure, get at least two quotes for repairs over $2,000. Your insurer can provide a list of preferred repairers in your area and should be able to arrange for these repairers to contact you. In claims where repairs are likely to cost more than $5,000, your insurer will appoint an assessor to inspect the damage and compare the quotes against your damage. The assessor then provides a written report to your insurer, with recommendations regarding the repairs which the insurer will authorise, depending on circumstances. Insurance brokers work for the insured, not the insurer: having an insurance broker at your side during a claim can help get many claims over the line that may otherwise be declined or prove too complex for an individual to handle on their own directly with their insurer. Q
DISCLAIMER: AMA Queensland Insurance Solutions is a joint initiative of AMA Queensland and Insurance Advisernet Australia Pty Limited ABN 81 072 343 643 AFS Licence 240549. AMA Queensland Insurance Solutions is a Corporate Authorised Representative of Insurance Advisernet Australia Pty Limited, Authorised Representative No: 320115. Please refer to the relevant Product Disclosure Statement before purchasing any insurance product.
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Leave the hardwork to TressCox, giving you more time for the pleasures in life ...
TressCox has over 100 years experience representing Medical Practitioners in various areas of Health Law. Our Health Services Group is one of the largest and most experienced in Australia. We are well connected to the health industry, its peak bodies and key professionals, so we offer a deep understanding of the issues. When professional, ethical and commercial issues compete, our legal advice is sensitive to every nuance and reality for one particular reason: our health team has specialist expertise gained through long term relationships with the industry. We connect. That’s what makes the difference. Katharine Philp Phone 07 3004 3536 Mobile 0409 586 785 Katharine_Philp@tresscox.com.au
Leo Hopsick Phone 07 3004 3535 Mobile 0409 625 538 Leo_Hopsick@tresscox.com.au
Alex Moriarty Phone 07 3004 3533 Mobile 0459 400 500 Alex_Moriarty@tresscox.com.au
Stephen Tonge Phone 07 3004 3502 Mobile 0408 987 669 Stephen_Tonge@tresscox.com.au
www.tresscox.com.au 36
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t w i t t e r.c o m /Tr e ssC o x linkedin.com/company/tresscox-lawyer s
BUSINESS TOOLS
REGISTERING YOUR BUSINESS NAME TRESSCOX LAWYERS’ LEO HOPSICK PRESENTS A TIMELY REMINDER ABOUT THE USE AND REGISTRATION OF BUSINESS NAMES FOR PRACTICE OWNERS.
Doctors, practice managers, medical indemnity insurers, directors and practice owners should be aware that the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) is now responsible for registering, reviewing and administering business names for all Australian businesses. This came about following the enactment of the Business Names Registration Act 2011 (Cwlth). This new Act centralises and simplifies business name registration, superseding the previous state or territory based system. A business name already registered under the old system will automatically transfer to the register under the new Act. It is recommended that business name owners verify their business name registrations once they have been rolled over to the ASIC register to ensure that the details contained are correct. SAME NAME, DIFFERENT BUSINESS? Centralisation is a boon for national businesses which previously had to register the same business name in several states or territories. But what happens if a business name owner’s business name is the same as a business name registered by a third party in a different state or territory? Both names will be maintained but ASIC will provide additional information on the register to assist the public in distinguishing between the business names, including by adding a distinguishing word as another identifier. The identifier does not, however, actually form part of the business name. Another option is to register your name as a trademark, thus preventing a third party using your business name for goods and services similar to those of your business. UNREGISTERED BECOMES UNLAWFUL With limited exceptions—such as an individual carrying on a business in their own name—the new Act makes it an offence to carry on a business under an unregistered business name.
WHO CAN REGISTER A BUSINESS NAME
Leo Hopsick
Under the previous Queensland regulation, only corporations and individuals were permitted to register a business name.
TressCox Lawyers, Brisbane (07) 3004 3535 leo_hopsick@tresscox.com.au
The new Act allows an individual, a company, a trust, superannuation fund or unincorporated body or association, or a partnership to register a business name.
Emma Gierke Solicitor (07) 3004 3505
That means, for example, doctors who use a services trust arrangement may now register a business name in the name of their services trust.
emma_gierke@tresscox.com.au
HOW TO REGISTER A BUSINESS NAME Registration of a business name required completion of an online application form, lodged with ASIC and an accompanying registration fee. Business names can be registered for a period of one year or three years (a discount applies for the latter). ASIC may refuse a business name application on certain grounds (for example, if it is made up of or includes a restricted word such as ‘Commonwealth’). If ASIC rejects a business name application, a review of the rejection may be sought. Business name registrations should be renewed and the applicable fee paid prior to the expiration to ensure the continued registration. Contact TressCox for any assistance or advice in relation to the registration of business names or the changes to the business name registration system. Q
...the new Act makes it an offence to carry on a business under an unregistered business name.
1
ASIC maintains one register for all business names in all states and territories.
2
The ASIC register will reduce costs of compliance and registration.
3
Business names on state or territory registers will automatically transfer to the ASIC register (owners should check to verify details have been correctly transferred).
4
It is an offence to carry on a business under an unregistered business name.
5
Business names do have expiry dates and renewals need to be made before expiration.
Leo Hopsick is a Corporate Partner at the TressCox Brisbane office and has extensive experience acting for doctors and owners of healthcare facilities on business and commercial matters. Leo’s experience includes business structuring, buying and selling businesses, financing and the construction of healthcare facilities. DoctorQ SEPTEMBER 2012
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BUSINESS TOOLS
MAKING CASH WORK FOR YOU WHILE THE ECONOMY IS A LITTLE STEADIER THAN THE EARLY DAYS OF 2010 WHEN EUROPE TEETERED ON THE BRINK OF A FULL-BLOWN ECONOMIC CRISIS, CASH STILL HAS ITS PLACE IN MOST INVESTMENT PORTFOLIOS, SAYS INVESTEC’S CINDY ARTHUR.
Cindy Arthur Investec 1300 131 141 www.investec.com.au/medicalfinance
32 DAYE NOTIC L SPECIA New medical clients to Investec earn an extra one per cent on top of the current rate for the first 90 days.
When the Global Financial Crisis started, banks were under serious pressure to build liquidity and as a result interest rates for savings were very competitive. Banks chased cashed-up customers: cash was king. While some uncertainty remains, the demand for cash has slowed down. Over the last year, and certainly since the Reserve Bank of Australia started decreasing interest rates, the banks have slowly cut interest rates on deposits. Financial products ratings agency Canstar has noted the margin between the official RBA cash rate and a one-year term deposit shrinking to one per cent (from a 2.35 per cent difference two years ago). What does this mean for investment portfolios? It does not say banks have lost interest in cash altogether. Indeed, cash remains a critical component of most portfolios. It offers a respite from the rollercoaster ride of investments such as equities: it is a safe haven. But some shopping around is needed for fair and competitive interest rates on savings. According to Canstar, Investec already has one of the most attractive term deposits in the marketplace, but opportunities exist to give clients more flexibility when it comes to cash, which is why Investec developed the 32 Day Notice Account.
Giving people more options makes saving appealing. Essentially, the 32 Day Notice Account is a hybrid—somewhere between the traditional call account, providing instant access to money earning a very low rate of interest (if any) and a term deposit that locks away a stash of cash for a specified period but earns more interest in the process. With the 32 Day Notice Account, clients earn a competitive monthly interest rate—currently 5.15 per cent (variable) with new doctors to Investec earning an additional one per cent— while having access to funds with just 32 days’ notice, and without a penalty fee. The 32 Day Notice Account is just one of a suite of deposit products available to Investec’s medical clients, giving people more options to make saving appealing. Q
Investec Professional Finance Pty Ltd ABN 94110704464 is a subsidiary of Investec Bank (Australia) Limited ABN 55071292594 (Investec Bank).The information contained in this article (“Information”) is general in nature and has been provided in good faith, without taking into account your personal circumstances. While all reasonable care has been taken to ensure that the information is accurate and opinions fair and reasonable, no warranties in this regard are provided. We recommend that you obtain independent financial and tax advice before making any decisions. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Investec Bank (Australia) Limited.
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MEMBER MEMBER NEWS NEWS
QUICK GRAB MEMBER BENEFITS DIRECTORY Get more value from your membership
For a full list log into the members only page on our website to download all contact details and specials for these benefits or contact the Membership Team on (07) 3872 2222 or membership@amaq.com.au
Advocacy, representation and support Member support, services, policy and workplace relations Member Services
after hours Medical support
assisting impaired medical professionals
professional training and development personal health insurance
THE
community aid for children
BUSINESS SERVICES manuals, fact sheets and Publications for your practice
suicide watch
it solutions
e-connect
clinic connect
CLINIC CONNECT
clinic connect
Accounting, finance, investment and insurance
AMA Queensland organises and designs events to satisfy educational and professional development needs as well as social networking opportunities among your peers. events + training newsletter
Entertainment, leisure, automotive and travel
Publications and medical resources 2012
DIRECTORY OF MEMBERS GENERAL PRACTITIONERS | SPECIALISTS
Directory of Members
Supported by:
AMA List of Medical Services and Fees books, DVDs and software Magazines and e-newsletters
Insurance brokers
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IPHONE APP AND WEBSITE
property brokers
ENCORE
aLL ABOUT YOU MAGAZINE ONLINE
credit card and merchant facilities
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taxation, Accountancy and business advisory services financing
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Events and conferences
EFTPOS merchant facilities
see the signs
DOCTORS’ ONLY UNION
Travel lounge
administrative support
schools education program SEE
car discounts
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PROFESSIONAL TRAINING and DEVELOPMENT courses
SIGNS
Adventure and recreation activities
cable access
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ABCs OF HEALTHY LIVING
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Council of Residents and Registrars supporting DITs
Doctors’ Health Advisory Service
car hire
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AMAQ Foundation supporting rural medicine
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investment
SEPTEMBER 2012 DoctorQ
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MEMBER NEWS
TELL US WHAT EVENTS YOU WANT AMA Queensland’s events calendar of seminars, courses and pure social events is designed to bring progressive and topical events exploring important issues for the medical profession. We’re now starting to plan the 2103 events calendar for Brisbane and regional centres and seek your input:
CONGRATULATIONS
from the type of program that would most suit your needs to topics and speakers of interest to you. Share your ideas with our Events and Sponsorship Executive, Taylor Hunter on: P: (07) 3872 2269 or E: t.hunter@amaq.com.au Q
REFER TODAY AND GET A 25% REWARD
25%
! r membership ou y on t n ou c dis
Refer one of your colleagues to join AMA Queensland and receive a 25 per cent discount off your subscription for each member you refer. Just forward any referrals to the membership team by phoning: (07) 3872 2222 or email membership@amaq.com.au Q
Please let us know when there’s a change of: general practice information – including contact address, phone number, email and mobile
DOCTORS IN TRAINING
Dr Lynda Barnes Dr Andrew Bretherick Dr Tegan Burgess Dr Raniththri Ginige Dr Ryan Markham Dr Christine Pirrone Dr Satnum Solanki Dr Sanjay Valand Dr Joel Van Der Meulen Dr Moray Wilson Dr Bryan Wong
GENERAL PRACTITIONERS Dr Mohammadreza Haghighatpanah Dr Fredrick Kalu Dr Retaish Karwal Dr David Khoo Dr Anna Lindsay Dr Sudheer Talari Dr Ray Warner
SPECIALIST PRACTITIONERS
discipline – e.g. general practice, pathology etc employment status – private, public, VMO etc
PART-TIME PRACTITIONERS
practising status – student, full-time, part-time, retired Your details can be updated by calling the membership team on (07) 3872 2222 or emailing membership@amaq.com.au Q
AMA QUEENSLAND’S DIRECTORY OF MEMBERS 2013 With the production of the Directory of Members 2013 commencing shortly, a verification form will soon be sent to you, confirming your address details. Our annual Directory of Members is due out in January 2013. For more information, contact Holly Bretherton, General Manager – Member Relations on (07) 3872 2248 or email h.bretherton@amaq.com.au Q
MAY
Dr Alison Boyle Dr Kevin Johnston Dr Melanie Lau Dr Dianne Poad Dr Pamela Robinson Dr Petrus Van Den Berg
HAVE YOUR DETAILS CHANGED? Your medical career is an ever-changing journey. By keeping AMA Queensland updated with changes to your employment or locality, we can tailor the services and information most relevant to you.
to the following doctors who are now elected members of AMA Queensland.
DON’ T MISS OUT!
Dr Heidi AndersonDalheim Dr Tatjana Ewais Dr Rachael M Jabs Dr Deborah Thomas Dr Richard Thomas
SALARIED PRACTITIONERS
Dr Frank Beard Dr Tarragon Chisholm Dr Sabaratnam Ganeshananthan Dr Rajeev Hedge Dr Guan Koh Dr Asha Sadasivan Dr Pathmanathan Sivakumaran Dr James Swao
JUNE DOCTORS IN TRAINING
Dr Carolina ArdilaSarmiento Dr Nikki Brennan
Dr Duncan Campbell Dr Renae Dall-Alba Dr Sam Fairless Dr Soheil Farnaghi Dr Ross Francis Dr John Goddard Dr Katherine Hawkins Dr Simon Ho Dr Adam Holyoak Dr Katherine Holzhauser Dr Glyn Lackie Dr Andrew McBride Dr Christiaan Mostert Dr Seikh Naveed Dr Simon Newman Dr Matthew Rixon Dr Rupert Savariar Dr Michael Seebeck Dr Masoud Taffakh Dr Ruth Young
GENERAL PRACTITIONERS
Dr Dariush Adybeik Dr Patricio Gordillo Dr Niraj Mohan Dr Ticahafara Muvirimi Dr Selvanayagam Niranjan Dr Alison Pilkington Dr Jasotha Sanmugarajah Dr Jingsong Yuan Dr Arlyn Zaidem
SPECIALIST PRACTITIONERS Dr James Renton Dr Wei Seto Dr Daniel Varghese
PART-TIME PRACTITIONERS
Dr Christopher Bennett Dr Theresa Carroll Dr Ulf Steinvorth
SALARIED PRACTITIONERS
Dr Michael Aitken Dr Adam J Coltzau Dr Brenda G Graham Dr Thin Han Dr Dean C Isherwood Dr Jeremy Long Dr Sheanna Maine Dr Daniel Mehanna Dr Lawrence Nandam Dr Angus Thompson Dr Eve Timmins
ACADEMIC
Prof Richard Murray DoctorQ SEPTEMBER 2012
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MEMBER NEWS
Considering a new medical suite?
PROJECTS
DMC Projects is a specialist project management and construction company providing design, management and construction services throughout South East Queensland. DMC’s previous project management experience in healthcare projects has provided the team with an in depth understanding of both regulatory and patient requirements. From General Practices to Specialist Suites and Laboratories, DMC Projects offers the expertise to deliver your clinic and business requirements. DESIGN • Recent healthcare projects experience • Leading interior design services • Complete furnishing and finishes selection • Innovative solutions & concepts • Medical practice relocations
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SEPTEMBER 2012 DoctorQ
For more information call 07 3666 0999 www.dmcprojects.com | info@dmcprojects.com
obituaries
Dr
Bernard Greer Dr Bernard Louis Greer, a devoted family man, skilled radiologist and keen golfer, passed away peacefully 7 June 2012. Born in Mackay in 1924 to publicans Grace and Herbert Greer, Dr Greer and his twin John enlisted in 1942. Upon return, Dr Greer took up a university placement offer for returned servicemen, graduating with second-class honours in Medicine from Sydney University in 1952. While training in radiology at St Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney, two of his most significant achievements occurred: marrying his beloved Maureen (1955) and topping Australasia in his radiology fellowship Part 2 examination (1957).
Dr Greer established Brisbane’s first suburban radiology practice at Stone’s Corner in 1959 with his wife’s help, forming close friendships with many referrers. He was a Life member of the AMA, ‘honorary’ at Princess Alexandra and Mater Misericordiae hospitals, part-time lecturer at The University of Queensland and RANZCR Queensland branch president. Dr Greer will be remembered for his sharp intellect, kindness, generosity, determination and ever-present humour. He is survived by five of his seven children: Damien, Mark, Jane, Anthony and MaryLouise; four son- and daughters-in-law; and nine grandchildren. Q
Dr Esther Frances
Gilmore Roe
and g n i m m i w ed s Dr Roe lovoing laps three or was still d a week at 90. four times
Dr Esther Roe, one of the first women to graduate from the University of Queensland’s medical school, died on 6 June 2012.
Marrying a fellow medical student, Charles Roe, in September 1943, World War Two separated the couple after just nine weeks.
Born in 1919, Dr Roe followed the footsteps of her father Dr Gilmore Wilson, an Ipswich general practitioner, and was joined in medicine by brothers Harry, Chester and Brian.
Post-war, the couple established a general practice from their Yeronga home, enabling the much-loved GP to find time for her four cherished children.
Obstacles were things to be hurdled: to study physics and chemistry— prerequisites for entry into medicine —the Ipswich Girls Grammar student took classes at Ipswich Boys Grammar; a cochlear implant (at age 80) overcame two decades of impaired hearing
Towards the end of her working life, Dr Roe provided counseling exclusively. Apart from medicine and family, Dr Roe loved swimming and was still doing laps three or four times a week at 90. Dr Roe is survived by her daughters Dorothy, Frances and Barbara (all doctors), son Charles and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Q
DoctorQ SEPTEMBER 2012
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People & EVENTS
PRIVATE PRACTICE CONFERENCE ENTHUSES More than 60 practice managers and doctors gathered at Indooroopilly Golf Course in late July for the fourth AMA Queensland Starting and Working in Private Practice conference. Over two days, participants heard the latest on all aspects of practice management: from legal, financing, risk management and recruitment to industrial relations, accreditation, technology and leasing.
Delegates were lavish in their praise: “It’s been an excellent educational opportunity to renew enthusiasm for long-term practice managers and ignite enthusiasm for the uninitiated,” said Gina Blomfield from Warner Family Medical Practice. “This conference really should be mandatory for new players and revision for older players,” added Cannon Hill’s Dr Chris Cunneen. Q
ABOVE: A full-house of participants, engaged by the myriad of topics that involve running a medical practice TOP LEFT: Julie Smith from William Buck Chartered Accountants talks business models LEFT: AMA Queensland’s George Sotiris talks employees’ contractual arrangements
Double the size, double the value! Receive a DOUBLE UPGRADE on your weekend rental of 2 days or more. Rental must be collected between Thursday noon and the following Monday midnight and include a Saturday night keep. In addition, you’ll receive your AMA discounted rate and fee waived membership to the Hertz #1 Club Gold program. It all adds up to a great deal for AMA members from Hertz! To make a booking, visit hertz.com.au or call 13 30 39. Be sure to quote CDP# 283826 and PC# 174521
For a better journey
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SEPTEMBER 2012 DoctorQ
horatioTM
lifestyle
INVESTING IN—NOT WITH—BANKS REGULAR COLUMNIST ROSS NOYE SAYS DESPITE FALLING CASH RATES HURTING SUPERANNUATION FUND INCOME, HIGHER INCOME RETURNS ARE THERE FOR THE TAKING.
As at March 2012, Self Managed Super Funds (SMSF) had around $116 billion—or 28 per cent— invested in cash. Over the past 10 months, almost $1.5 billion (1.5 per cent) was lost in that sector’s annual income. No wonder trustees and fund members are looking elsewhere for higher yields. The demand for higher yields has seen investors snap up more than $6.5 billion in listed hybrid securities offering an attractive margin above the 90 day bank bill rate, but the real opportunities have been elsewhere. Savvy SMSF trustees who switched from investing with the banks to investing in the banks 12 months ago locked in pre-tax yields of between 11and 14 per cent and strong capital growth of between 28 and 34 per cent. In boom times, these would be considered stellar returns: in a market that delivered negative 11 per cent for the year to 30 June, they are exceptional. Of course, these returns assume trustees were able to pick the bottom of the market and had the courage to shift money from cash to shares at a time when markets were falling. The reality is, no one rings
Over the long term, the banks have delivered a stable and growing dividend income stream which has proved to be a powerful hedge against the effect of inflation. For example, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) dividend has increased from $0.40 in December 1991 to $3.25 in 2011, representing an annual dividend income growth rate of 11.65 per cent, well above the inflation rate.
the bell to signal the bottom of the market: investment decisions are made in the moment; not in hindsight. Term deposits have been a good place for many investors to be over the past few years, but for those who can tolerate bouts of market volatility and managed to time their entry well, the move into bank shares has proved a successful strategy.
The big banks have limited competition, continue to dominate domestic banking and enjoy the benefit of government support because of the critical role they play in the economy. With this sort of protection they are likely to continue delivering the high stable and growing dividends of the past. Q
With the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) expected to cut the official cash rate by another 0.5 percent (to around 3 per cent) by year’s end, investors should enjoy a higher income stream even if the big banks’ share prices go nowhere over the next year or two.
No one rings the bell to signal the bottom of the market: investment decisions must be made in the moment.
2011
CBA DIVIDENDS:
2009
2.5%
2005 2003 2001
1997
3.0%
2007
A GROWING INCOME STREAM
3.5%
1999
1995
2.0% 1.5% 1.0%
1993
0.5%
Readers should consider their own circumstances and seek professional advice before making any investment decisions.
0.0% DoctorQ SEPTEMBER 2012
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lifestyle
GASTRONOMIChts! Delig FOODIES DELIGHT! AMA QUEENSLAND TRAVEL’S ROS BULAT PRESENTS A SMORGASBORD OF EUROPEAN TASTEBUD TREATS DESIGNED TO HEIGHTEN YOUR TRAVEL EXPERIENCE.
Most travellers are quick to admit that eating and drinking are a vital part of their holiday experience. A glass of Chianti in Tuscany, eating from street vendors in Vietnam, perhaps taking a cooking class to learn the basics of a particular cuisine: all great ways to get up close and personal with a local culture; maybe even creating holiday highlights.
While gastronomic tours have long been a niche market in the travel industry for well-heeled Australians seeking 5-star experiences such as big name wineries and Michelin-star restaurants, the search for authentic food experiences has become a lot more common: for example, combining the traditional such as wine tastings with more action-packed activities like truffle hunts or collecting shellfish to unlock a destination’s true flavour. For those heading to Europe, my pick would be:
Spain
With vast forests, lush green pastures and picturesque fishing villages on the Atlantic coast, northern Spain is one of the most celebrated gastronomic regions of Europe. In San Sebastian alone, the restaurants bear more Michelin stars per capita than Paris!
PHONE: 1800 262 885 FAX: (07) 5556 7200 EMAIL: travel@amaq.com.au WEB: amaq.worldtravel.com.au
PEPPERS
Italy France
For wine lovers, you can’t go past four-day packages dedicated to the Langhe wine district in southern Piedmont, world-renown for the king of wines, the Barolo. From this area came the International Slow Food Movement: a marriage of food heritage, tradition and culture. For foodies, savour Tuscany’s offerings from a cooking lesson in the walled town of Lucca, cheese-making in Cortona (the setting of Under the Tuscan sun), or exploring Arezzo’s markets.
The region of Burgundy offers something for all tastes—food, wine, history, architecture or simple relaxation. From tiny villages on quiet canals to rolling vineyards surrounding pretty chateaus, Burgundy is a region made for wine and food tours: home to world famous wines like Chablis and PulignyMontrachet and such classic dishes as escargots, coq au vin, boeuf bourguignon, and jambonpersille.
Next time you are planning a holiday, let your tastebuds be your guide. No matter where, AMA Queensland Travel can get your plans cooking, creating an itinerary of destinations and experiences literally infused for your specific tastes!
BROADBEACH, GOLD COAST
Relax, unwind and rejuvenate in the luxe fusion of city sophistication and coastal relaxation that is Peppers Broadbeach. • 1-bedroom suites • 2-bedroom suites • 3-bedrom sky homes
• Zen gardens • Heated pools • Private cinema
Packages include unlimited in-room movies and internet access, superb pillow menu plus onsite parking and daily servicing.
$275* Packages start from
per night
*One-bedroom suite, subject to availability
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SEPTEMBER 2012 DoctorQ
Call AMA Travel Queensland on 1300 262 885
lifestyle
TOURIGA - ARE WE READY? WINE DIRECT’S MATT WALLACE SAYS AUSTRALIAN WINE LOVERS’ WILLINGNESS TO EMBRACE NEW FLAVOURS AND TEXTURES PROVIDES INCENTIVE FOR WINEMAKERS TO GIVE THE CHALLENGING TOURIGA NACIONAL A GO
GETTING FIRED UP FOR TOURIGA
CLIMATE CHANGE: A HOT CULTIVAR?
Old Mill Estate’s Peter Widdop told me there was no bolt from the blue when it came to planting touriga nacional: “Stuart (Blackwell) from St Hallett wanted us to plant a bit for him—about two hectares, but we put in six. I tasted their first touriga rose in tank and thought ‘beauty!’ I could have sat there drinking out of the tank all day.”
In its homeland, Portugal’s Douro Valley, touriga nacional produces exceptional fruit in an extremely hot climate. Add the rocky ‘schistous’ which captures and re-radiates heat into the fruiting zone, and you have very challenging growing conditions to which the variety is obviously naturally suited. To complement the vines’ natural synergy with rugged conditions, Peter splits the canopy, trellising most of the canes upward, with around 20 per cent trellised outward from about 30 centimetres above the fruiting zone, creating something akin to a roof over a tool shed, protecting the fruit from direct sunlight, preventing the canopy from choking itself and allowing enough green growth to perfectly ripen the fruit.
BRANCHING OUT
There’s a decent argument that anyone planting significant quantities of touriga nacional has rocks in their head. It’s a real challenge: vigorous and difficult to ripen with a high skin-to-juice ratio, so that the harvest seems to shrink as it passes through the crusher. Add to that, Australia is already blessed with grenache and shiraz, varietals which can produce exceptional examples of rosé, red and fortified. Happily, drinkers are embracing new flavours and textures. South Australia’s Old Mill Estate, at Langhorne Creek, is listening, fashioning cutting-edge pink and black wines from the variety. Recent vintages also suggest touriga has good potential as a climate change variety. At the very least, Old Mill has demonstrated that touriga is ready for us!
With a few vintages of rose under the belt, Old Mill set out to make a red and its touriga is excellent. In spite of the big tannins, it’s light on its feet and quite graceful. On the nose, it offers an explosion of Chinese spice and blueberries; quite unlike any other Australian red I’ve encountered. As the wine crosses your tongue, it tapers and refines slowly as though the wine’s strident nature changes as it slides across your palate. This wine is a pleasure to drink now and suits a range of dishes, particularly antipasto and char-grilled meats. AS A FORTIFIED – TOURIGA ‘THE CONTENDER’ Old Mills’ next release, a fortified using the Portugese varietal, is currently brewing in the barrel. More restrained than most Aussie VP styles, it is also exceedingly generous. The nose hints of the spicy aromatics on offer in the dry red, along with a whack of reduced blackcurrant bolstered by spindles of aristocratic spirit. It is intense, long and refined: quite beautiful already but should age very well too.
Furnace-like conditions of the 2008 and 2009 growing season definitely put vineyards through their paces. Heat punished vines, stalling flavour development while sugar levels raced ahead. Plenty of good wines were made: many carry the double albatross of excessive alcohol and minimal fruit intensity even after reverse osmosis. Old Mill’s touriga suffered relatively little damage and ripened at a comparatively sedate pace. Fortunately it also performs well in more traditional vintages. Q
Matt Wallace Wine Direct 1800 649 463 matt.wallace@winedirect.com.au
DoctorQ SEPTEMBER 2012
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lifestyle
DENDY PORTSIDE TURNS
6
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS Keep the kids enthralled during the holidays. Finding Nemo in 3D has just been released and Madagascar 3 In 3D is out from 13 September. All tickets are $8 when an adult accompanies a child. Group bookings and movie birthday parties welcome!
AND OUR GIFT TO YOU IS…
$6 MOVIE TICKETS
18 - 23 September for movies before 6pm!
Cast: Gina Riley, Jane Turner, Magda Szubanski From the creative team behind the hit ABC series Kath and Kim, the Fountain Lake ladies hit the big screen, going overseas and becoming the centre of their very own fairytale! Watch the trailer: www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPGCZjvz58M
KATH AND KIMDRELLA Opens 6 September
ORE FOR M ISIT V INFO OM.AU
SPRING SPARKLE
.C DENDY
CLASSIC FILMS CONTINUE Dendy Portside screens the following Hollywood classics on Mondays at 10am and 6pm:
MET OPERA
BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD Opens 13 September
CONTINUES
Cast: Quvenzhané Wallis, Dwight Henry, Levy
DONIZETTI’S LUCIA DI LAMMERMOOR
Director: Benh Zeitlin
Cast: Natalie Dessay, Joseph Calleja
Easterly
Screens Sunday 16 September, 12.30pm
Sundance 2012 winner Beasts of the Southern Wild sees six-year-old Hushpuppy and her father Wink live in a southern Delta community at the edge of the world. Faced with her father’s fading health and environmental changes that signal the unravelling of the universe, Hushpuppy goes in search of her lost mother and is forced to comprehend her place in the mysterious world around her.
DON GIOVANNI
Screens Sunday 30 September 12.30pm
Cast: Marina Rebeka, Barbara Frittoli, Ramón Vargas, Luca Pisaroni, Mariusz Kwiecien
Your favourite operas continue on the big screen throughout September. Ticket price includes a wonderful array of canapes thanks to Vagelis Catering at interval.
PILLOW TALK
10 September
THE STING
17 September
TWO FOR THE ROAD
24 September
SHOWBOAT
8 October
KISS ME KATE
15 October
THE MALTESE FALCON
22 October
WEEN LLO HA
SPECI A
DRACULA
L
29 October
For more information visit: www.dendy.com.au/Page/ Visit-Dendy-Portside
WIN MOVIE TICKETS FOR TWO Name: Postal address: Portside Wharf, Remora Road, Hamilton Ph: (07) 3137 6000 www.dendy.com.au 48
SEPTEMBER 2012 DoctorQ
Phone:
FAX BACK TO (07) 3856 4727 or email editor@amaq.com.au by 28 September
lifestyle ORE FOR M ION MAT INFOR M.AU CO QPAC. 246 OR 136
20 October, Concert Hall, QPAC The Queensland Pops Orchestra and Australian music legend Troy Cassar-Daley come together on stage for a one-off tribute to our great country, performing a host of great hits and introducing some new works.
A BIG COUNTRY
with Queensland Pops Orchestra: Troy Cassar-Daley
BILL BAILEY QUALMPEDDLER 21-24 September, Concert Hall, QPAC Comedian Bill Bailey’s 2010 Australian tour was a sell-out. His new show Qualmpeddler combines all the trademark Bailey elements—musical mash-ups, twisted logic, some political ranting, brilliant visuals and animation—to present what he describes as “a clear-eyed yet surreal view” of the modern world. And inspired by a trip to China, Bailey explores language in a way only he can!
WIN DOUBLE PASSES TO SOUTHERN CROSS SOLOISTS
ELAINE PAIGE 29 October, Concert Hall, QPAC In an unforgettable two-hour journey, Elaine Paige, the First Lady of musical theatre returns to Brisbane, recreating her roles as Grizabella (CATS), Eva Peron (Evita) and more. Paige has been awarded four multi-platinum and eight gold records PREVIOUS including the hits “SOLD OUT” Memory and I know him AUSTRALIAN so well.
TOUR
SOUTHERN CROSS SOLOISTS - JACK AND VICKY
18 November, Concert Hall, QPAC The third and final concert in the Southern Cross Soloists 2012 season welcomes back Jack Liebeck and Vicky Sayles as joint violin soloists for a wonderful afternoon of music: from Bach’s Concerto for two violins, with its gorgeous adagio, to the romantic Moszkowski Suite and the fiery Argentinean tangos of Astor Piazzolla.
Name: Postal address:
Phone:
FAX BACK TO (07) 3856 4727 or email editor@amaq.com.au by 28 September DoctorQ SEPTEMBER 2012
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lifestyle
THE HOME THERAPIST It’s always handy to know what patients are reading and The Home Therapist is likely to be one publication appearing on many family bookshelves. Dr John Barletta and Jan Bond have drawn together the contributions of 90 experienced professionals to provide an easy-toread psychological first aid manual covering more than 130 issues faced across a lifetime. Within its 455 pages lies a wealth of practical information and helpful tips that can be used for
WIN THIS BOOK!
self-care, as a adjunct to therapy or in support of others. 2010 Australian of the Year, psychiatrist Professor Patrick McGorry describes The Home Therapist as reflecting a faith in the human spirit and the inherent resilience of all people given the right conditions. The Home Therapist (ISBN 9781921513916) is published by Australian Academic Press and retails for $54.95. It is available at all good book stores or online at www.aapbooks.com. Q Doctor Q has a copy of The Home Therapist to give away. Simply fill out your details in block letters on the form and fax it to (07) 3856 4727 or email editor@amaq.com.au.
Name: Postal Address:
Entries close 30 September.
COMPETITION WINNERS
Telephone:
50
SEPTEMBER 2012 DoctorQ
DENDY WINNERS
QPAC WINNERS
BOOK WINNER
DOUBLE PASS WINNERS
Associate Professor JF Leditschke, Dr Jennifer Lockwood and Dr Philip Werchon won double passes to enjoy the dynamic Bangarra Dance Theatre perform Terrain at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre.
Dr Terese Pope won Bigger or better? Australia’s population debate, pre-eminent scientist and commentator Professor Ian Lowe’s latest thought-provoker, published by University of Queensland Press.
1. Rhonda Boyle 2. John O’Sullivan 3. Janice Marshall 4. Jason McMillen 5. D Krisunappa 6. Lesley Manski 7. SK Ho 8. Karen Chan 9. KF Bowes 10. David Lynch
CLASSIFIEDS
Professor RogeR Allen Professor Roger Allen is a highly regarded and widely published respiratory and sleep physician practicing at The Wesley Medical Centre, Auchenflower, Brisbane. Professor Allen has special expertise in sarcoidosis and medicolegal reporting in asbestos and other occupational diseases and is renowned for his meticulous work. To make a referral or for further information on Prof. Allen’s medical services visit: www.sarcoidosis.com.au or www.sleephealth.com.au For appointments ring: 07 3719 5577 Fax 07 3719 5177 or email receptionrka@internode.on.net
FOR RENT / LEASE SPECIALIST MEDICAL ROOMS (with balcony) available to share with Clinical Geneticist on either a full-time or sessional basis in Chermside Medical Complex. Separate reception areas, kitchen, smaller consulting room (suitable for procedures /Psychologist / Dietician). Secured car space. Other services in complex include Premion Radiotherapy, HOCA, Southerex Imaging, S & N Pathology, Day Surgery, General Practice and Pharmacy.
Publication sought Seeking a copy of Manual of Operative Surgery by Dr Meyers, Dean of Surgical Anatomy, University of Queensland, issued to fourth year medical students in the 1950s as a training publication. If you have a copy of this archive publication please contact Dr Reginald Magee
CONTACT Therese Gattas 0414 854 793 or
email@brisbanegenetics.com.au
VR GP required
PH: 3353 2422
Flexible hours opportunity for full-time work or partnership. Long-standing, small family practice in Brisbane northern suburbs.
T 07 3398 7589 | M 0410 605 231 | E reginaldm3@bigpond.com
FOR LEASE Medical/Consulting Offices • Minutes to ICB • Walk to Woolworths • Exclusive car park use
Mixed billing, accredited, computerised.
Floor Area: 69 m²
Well-appointed consulting and dedicated treatment rooms.
$22,080pa gross + GST
Specific interest in women’s health, mental health and geriatrics.
Chase Commercial - Newstead Joshua Peake - 0415 200 190
Nurse practitioner two days.
AMA QUEENSLAND
BOOKKEEPING SERVICE
Quality service Competitive price Help available when you need it five days per week Experienced in the medical industry Secure, long-standing organisation with a reputation you can trust Services are flexible to suit your business needs CPA qualified accountant leading the team Registered BAS agent References available
The Business Support Services team at AMA Queensland provides professional and confidential financial services for your organisation. We offer a service that includes a full function payroll (including superannuation, PAYG and payroll tax), creditors, debtors, bank reconciliations, provision of monthly financial reports as well as the completion and lodgement of business activity statements. We communicate with your tax accountants to ensure services are performed efficiently: reducing doublehandling and saving you money.
Call us to discuss your bookkeeping requirements
(07) 3872 2222
Email: bss@amaq.com.au Fax: (07) 3856 4727 PO Box 123, Red Hill Qld 4059 88 L’Estrange Terrace, Kelvin Grove, Queensland 4059
DoctorQ SEPTEMBER 2012
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O u t o f t h e O rd i n a r y
Specialist Bank
t n u o c c a e ic t o n y 32 da Earn an extra 1% above our current rate of 5.15%
A big plus for savers Make the most of your business, retirement or personal savings. We know that it’s tough constantly chasing the best rate for your savings. But it doesn’t have to be. •
Available for balances up to $250 000
•
Available to medical and dental professionals only
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Rate confirmed for 90 days
•
32 days notice to withdraw funds
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Interest paid monthly
•
Online banking functionality This offer is open to new deposit clients and for new accounts. To apply call 1300 160 160 or visit www.investec.com.au/notice
Medical and and Dental Finance Medical Finance Deposit products are issued by Investec Bank (Australia) Limited ABN 55 071 292 594, AFSL 234975 (Investec Bank). Before making any investment decisions, please contact us for a copy of the Product Disclosure Statement. The information contained in this document does not take into account your personal fi nancial or investment needs or circumstances. The above rates are current as at 20 July 2012. The plus 1% promotion is available for the fi rst 90 days on new notice accounts opened with up to $250 000 deposit. Balances over $250 000 earn the standard variable rate. Interest is paid monthly. Offer valid from 1 August 2012 to 31 October 2012 and is subject to change without notice. Deposits placed with Investec Bank are guaranteed by the Australian Government as part of the Financial Claims Scheme. For further information regarding this scheme, please refer to www.apra.gov.au