Be An Awesome GP Podcast

Podcast host Chris interviews RACGP presidential candidate Dr Gavin Colthart, a Townsville GP originally from New Zealand who trained in the UK and has worked in management, healthcare IT consulting, the UK Parliament, medical education, and remote/rural/tropical medicine across North Queensland and Far North communities.  He explains why he’s running for RACGP president now, arguing the college must move beyond incremental change to address emerging threats and ethical issues, including scope expansion such as pharmacy prescribing, corporatization of healthcare, freedom of speech concerns, and risks to women’s health access influenced by U.S.-style conservative policy.    00:00 Podcast Intro Rap 00:31 Meet Dr Gavin Coulthard 01:35 From NZ to UK GP Journey 03:55 Australia Remote GP Work 05:35 Why Run for President 08:23 What RACGP Does Well 10:38 Where College Must Lead 14:30 Pharmacy Prescribing Response 20:17 Advice for GP Registrars 24:01 Burnout Money and Housing 27:35 Final Election Message

In this episode of Be An Awesome GP, Chris sits down with RACGP presidential candidate Dr. Ramya Raman to discuss her vision for the future of general practice. Drawing from her roots in rural NSW, Dr. Raman shares what motivated her to run, highlighting the urgent need to protect the profession against fragmented care and scope creep. We break down her core "protect, build, focus" strategy, exploring: Her six-point plan to counter pharmacy prescribing. Recent advocacy wins for GP registrars, including the $30,000 pay parity measure and improved leave entitlements. Ways to streamline GP training and boost funding for clinical supervision. Major financial priorities, including an independent pricing authority, CPI indexation for MBS items, and tackling payroll tax risks. Timestamps: 00:00 - Podcast Intro Jingle 00:39 - Meet Dr. Ramya Raman 02:20 - Her GP Origin Story 05:30 - Why Run for President? 09:02 - Board Wins and Lessons 12:08 - The Pharmacy Prescribing Plan 16:22 - Supporting GP Registrars 18:59 - Funding and Payroll Tax 21:39 - Wrap Up and Final Thanks Dr Raman's campaign website is here

In this episode of Be An Awesome GP, Chris sits down with RACGP presidential candidate Dr. Anita Muñoz to discuss her path into general practice and her drive to defend the profession against political and media devaluation. Drawing on her experience as a practicing GP, clinic owner, and medical educator, Dr. Muñoz breaks down her long-game strategy for the College and how to secure tangible wins for doctors. We explore: Her evidence-based fight against pharmacy prescribing, focusing on safety gaps, harm reporting, and economic arguments. Major Victorian advocacy wins, including securing a payroll tax amnesty and a $40,000 registrar grant that was later adopted nationally. Recent RACGP board decisions, navigating the backlash over member fee rises, and the need for more sensitive fee structures. Critical funding priorities: restoring mental health and procedural item numbers, and why the College must maintain sustained pressure on the government without a "fallback" plan. Timestamps: 00:00 - Podcast Intro Rap 00:39 - Meet Dr. Anita Muñoz 01:38 - Why General Practice? 04:01 - Board Wins and Lessons 07:19 - The Pharmacy Prescribing Fight 11:23 - Victorian Advocacy Wins 14:16 - Attracting GP Registrars 17:36 - Funding Priorities & No Fallback 20:33 - Closing Message and Farewell   Dr Munoz's campaign page can be found here

Slay Dragons, Live Better: New Book + Beyond Blue Fundraiser (Doctors & Dragons) Announcing my new book, “Slay Dragons, Live Better,” exploring the science of Dungeons & Dragons and how it can improve wellbeing, with links on Amazon. This month we’re also raising money for Beyond Blue via our Tiltify fundraiser, Mass Healing Words (Doctors and Dragons/MDTTTRPG Fundraise for Beyond Blue), and donations support mental health. Donors can access reward packages, including naming a character in our campaigns (e.g., Remington Burglebear, Gentleman Privateer, Boblin the Goblin) or naming a magic item like the Placebo Potion. We’ll be a little quiet this month while we focus on the fundraiser—be an awesome GP. https://tilt.fyi/qBdECUzf7S

Chris interviews Dr Kerry Jewel, a Melbourne-based nuclear medicine physician and writer, about her debut novel A Little Unwell (Hachette), a darkly funny medical drama following junior doctor Amy and drawn from real clinical experiences while protecting patient confidentiality through “scrambled” stories. Jewel outlines her path to traditional publishing: years of drafting, joining writing communities (Writers Victoria, Australian Society of Authors), writing short stories, entering the Richell Prize (Hachette/Emerging Writers’ Festival) where she was shortlisted in 2020, then completing the manuscript, seeking a literary agent during her own breast cancer treatment, and navigating structural and copy edits before publication. The conversation also covers the realities of Australian book sales, the importance of supporting local writers and independent bookstores, and Jewel’s message that all doctors should advocate for stronger, sustainable general practice.   Hachette book info: https://www.hachette.com.au/kerry-jewell/a-little-unwell Website: https://www.kerryjewell.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drkerryjewell/   ASA: https://www.asauthors.org.au/   State Writing Centres: https://writersvictoria.org.au/ https://writingnsw.org.au/ https://queenslandwriters.org.au/ https://www.ntwriters.com.au/ https://writerssa.org.au/ https://www.writingwa.org/ https://taswriters.wildapricot.org/ https://www.writerscentre.com.au/   00:00 Show Intro Theme 00:20 Meet Dr Kerry Jewel 02:00 What We Will Cover 03:48 Writing Roots And Medicine 05:56 Why She Wrote The Novel 09:58 Replacing House Of God 11:08 Art Versus Medicine Reality 14:21 Drafting And Word Counts 17:14 Finding A Writing Mentor 18:32 Book Sales And Shelf Life 24:31 Joining Writing Communities 28:24 Why Community Matters 29:41 Finding Your Writing Community 31:19 Richell Prize Breakthrough 34:19 Finishing the Manuscript Years 36:19 Cancer Diagnosis and Work 38:14 Searching for a Literary Agent 42:11 Signing with Hachette 43:07 Editing and Tropes 46:09 Australian English and Markets 48:02 Promoting the Book 49:02 Advocating for General Practice 52:26 Where to Buy the Book 54:26 Final Wrap and Farewell    

Chris reunites with former Royal Tweed Hospital intern colleague Dr Nelson Herbert, now a GP at Cotton Tree Plaza Medical Center, to discuss supervising new registrars and the philosophy of general practice. Nelson outlines his diverse path including three years of obstetrics and gynecology additional skills and years as a medical educator across GP Synergy and RACGP, and explains why teaching improves his clinical work.  They contrast abundant guidelines, webinars and exam resources with the higher value of learning GP “art” such as listening, tailoring feedback, safety-netting, continuity of care, and planning follow-up. They discuss career satisfaction, flexibility, part-time work, generalism versus subspecialty interests, and concerns about fragmented care. The conversation also covers patients using ChatGPT, clinician AI tools like Heidi, risks around MBS item suggestions and skills attrition, and practical tips for handling undifferentiated presentations.   00:00 Diagnose With Style 00:13 Meet Dr Nelson Herbert 01:50 Why Teaching Matters 04:47 Beyond Webinars 06:18 The Art Of GP 07:25 Reddit Reality Check 08:53 Is GP A Great Career 13:20 Generalist Vs Special Interests 16:37 Tips For New Registrars 18:21 First Day GP Shock 18:37 Calling Your Supervisor 19:46 Better Questions in Consults 20:20 Let Patients Talk 22:13 Dr Google to Dr GPT 23:41 AI Scribes and Data Risks 24:43 Heidi and AI Overload 27:52 Undifferentiated Patient Approach 31:55 Humanizing General Practice 33:03 Farewell and Outro   See more of Nelson at https://www.youtube.com/@absolutestreaming   #generalpractice #registrar #familymedicine

Transforming ADHD Diagnosis and Care: A GP's Journey and Innovations (it's just me today gang!)   In this episode, Dr. Chris shares his transformative journey after discovering his brother's missed ADHD diagnosis. As a General Practitioner in the Sutherland Shire, he created ADHD @ Your GP to address systemic issues in ADHD diagnosis and management. This was his project from the Future Leaders Program run by the RACGP. The project focuses on making ADHD care accessible, affordable, and effective within primary care settings. He discusses the streamlined processes, collaborative networks, and innovative tools developed, including an enhanced intake procedure and integrated care pathways. Dr. Chris highlights the importance of national consistency, training funding, and research to further improve ADHD management in general practice.   00:00 Introduction: A Personal Story 00:26 The Future Leaders Project 00:42 Challenges in ADHD Diagnosis and Care 02:18 Developing the ADHD Clinic 02:54 Stakeholder Engagement and Solutions 04:53 Achievements and Future Directions 05:51 Call to Action

In this episode, Dr. Christopher Timms hosts Dr Bhavya Balasubramanya, a public health physician and GP, to discuss her unique journey from India to Australia. They explore her background in community medicine, the challenges and experiences of international medical graduates, and Dr. Balasubramanya's advocacy work. Learn about the pathways, licensing, and the importance of diversity in the healthcare system.   00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:20 Meet Dr. Balasubramanya 01:07 Journey to General Practice 06:10 Challenges and Triumphs of an International Medical Graduate 13:02 Advocacy and Future Leaders Project 17:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Opinions are our own and not necessarily representative of any organisations. Not a medical advice podcast, please consult your own doctor for medical advice. 

Revolutionizing ADHD & Neurodiverse Care: Dr. Katherine Holzhauser's Journey   Join Dr. Christopher Timms as he interviews Dr. Katherine Holzhauser from the Kaleidoscope Clinic, discussing her profound impact on ADHD and neurodiverse care.   Key Discussion Points:   Dr. Holzhauser's Background and Career (00:47): Learn about Dr. Holzhauser's journey, starting from her background in general practice. Establishing Upward Life Family Practice (01:43): Discover the origins and establishment of the Upward Life Family Practice, a significant step in her career. Challenges and Achievements in Rural Practice (02:45): Dr. Holzhauser shares insights into the unique challenges and notable achievements encountered during her time in rural practice. Applying for the Future Leaders Program (03:10): Hear about her experience participating in the Future Leaders program and how it has shaped her professional development. ADHD Management in Queensland (06:11): Gain insights into the current landscape of ADHD management specifically within Queensland. Challenges in ADHD Diagnosis and Treatment (07:30): Dr. Holzhauser sheds light on the significant challenges faced in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. Future of ADHD Care in General Practice (10:36): A forward-looking discussion on the evolving role and future of ADHD care within general practice. Final Thoughts and Encouragement (11:39): Dr. Holzhauser offers some concluding remarks and encouragement, emphasizing the importance of maintaining clinical curiosity in general practice.   Resources and Further Information:   Upward Life Family Practice: https://www.ulfp.com.au/ Kaleidoscope Clinic: https://kaleidoscopeclinic.com.au/ RACGP Future Leaders Program: https://www.racgp.org.au/education/professional-development/programs/future-leaders-program Important Note: This podcast is intended for educational purposes for GPs and does not constitute specific medical advice. Please consult your own GP for medical concerns and your state's legislative requirements for practice.

In this insightful episode of "Be an Awesome GP," host Chris is joined by psychologist Dr. Shaun Prentice, an expert on burnout with a keen focus on general practitioners. Together, they delve into the complexities of burnout and explore how aligning personal values with professional life can significantly impact a GP's well-being. Dr. Prentice shares his valuable research findings, highlighting the link between values fulfillment and thriving in the medical field. They discuss the importance of strong support networks, including colleagues and mentors, in maintaining mental health. Tips on reframing challenges and the significance of external perspectives are also covered, offering practical advice for GPs to manage stress and burnout effectively. Join Chris and Dr. Prentice as they unravel the subtleties of burnout and offer strategies to keep GPs informed, connected, and thriving in their demanding roles. Research Gate Profile for Dr Prentice: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Shaun-Prentice Drs needing help can visit https://www.drs4drs.com.au/ https://www.amansw.com.au/doctors-for-colleagues/ *Not for specific medical advice, views are those of the individuals and not necessarily those of any affiliated institutions.

Join Christopher Timms in an engaging conversation with Dr. Billy Stoupas, a GP Practice Owner and healthcare innovator from Australia. Dr. Stoupas shares his inspiring journey from a medical student to a successful GP clinic owner, emphasizing the importance of communication and compassionate care. Discover how he has transformed Oakleigh Health District Centre into a thriving healthcare institution through his holistic approach and dedication to building strong patient relationships. With additional expertise in child health, skin cancer, and palliative medicine, Dr. Stoupas offers valuable insights on maintaining patient-centered care amidst evolving medical landscapes and AI advancements. Learn about the principles that guide his practice management, the importance of GP-led practice ownership, and his vision for an integrated healthcare system that ensures no patient falls through the cracks. Don't miss this episode for an inspiring look at the future of general practice. *Not a medical advice podcast. Views are our own and not the views of any organisation we may be associated with. 

Welcome to another episode of "Be an Awesome GP"! Today, we are thrilled to sit down with Professor Danielle Mazza, a prominent figure in general practice and women's health. As the head of the Department of General Practice at Monash University School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Professor Mazza has played a pivotal role in updating the RACGP's Red Book. In this episode, Professor Mazza provides an insightful overview of the newly launched 10th edition of the Red Book. She discusses the comprehensive updates and expanded chapters, covering essential topics like cancer prevention, women's reproductive health, eating disorders, and frailty. Professor Mazza also highlights the rigorous evidence-based framework used to develop the recommendations, ensuring they are relevant and trustworthy for Australian GPs. Tune in to learn about the significant contributions the Red Book makes to preventive care in general practice, and how it aims to combat misinformation and provide GPs with the best tools and resources to serve their patients effectively. Don't miss this enlightening conversation! Be An Awesome GP is targeted at GP's in the Australian Context. It is not specific medical advice for patients. The presenters views do not necessarily represent those of organisations they are affiliated with. 

In this episode of Be an Awesome GP, Dr. Nicole Higgins, the President of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners shares her insights on the Scope of Practice Review, a crucial topic. As GPs navigate the increasingly turbulent healthcare system, they play a unique role equivalent to pilots ensuring a safe landing in the field of primary care. This Scope of Practice Review emerges from the 2022 Strengthening Medicare Taskforce. It examines the roles of all primary healthcare providers from GPs to nurses, allied health professionals, and pharmacists. This episode further explores the issues paper 2 concerning health workforce scope, opportunities, and the potential for the inter-professional collaboration in the Australian healthcare system. Dr. Higgins emphasizes the immense training duration and expertise of GPs in managing complex care. However, she acknowledges that current legislation and regulations often limit their potential. She further discusses matters of duplication, increased healthcare costs, and the risk of care fragmentation. The concerns revolving around the direction of health reform and the potential for a fragmented, two-tiered health system are also addressed. Members are briefed on how to take actionable steps regarding these reforms and the invaluable role of GPs in advocating for better patient outcomes and a stronger healthcare system. To conclude the episode, Dr. Higgins inspires other GPs to take initiative in advocacy, emphasizing how anyone can contribute to enhancing the healthcare landscape. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the potential challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for GPs and the broader healthcare workforce.

Today we delve into the realm of gaming disorders, with a particular focus on the physically associated symptoms. We are thrilled to have Dr. Daniel Stjepanovic from the University of Queensland as our guest. Dr. Stjepanovic has recently published a paper titled 'Extended Hours of Video Gameplay and Negative Physical Symptoms and Pain' in Computers in Human and Behaviour. This episode stands out as a Journal Club episode, as we shed light on the essentials of Dr. Stepanovic's paper. His research, part of the International Gaming Study 2022, looks at the implications of gaming disorder's recent classification as a diagnosable condition by WHO. The study focusses on the physical harm or discomfort associated with video gaming, a domain seldom touched upon in comparison to the social, emotional, and mental well-being. The research methodology involved disseminating a comprehensive survey to regular video gamers, with the threshold for "regular" set as at least three hours a week. The concentration was on symptoms like eye fatigue, wrist or hand pain, back or neck pain, and general problems like headaches and muscle aches. Outcomes highlighted age or gender displaying no significant difference. However, a noticeable dose-response connection was observed where players who indulged in continuous gaming for at least three hours signposted significantly increased odds of physical discomfort. As we continue discussing the evolving field of gaming disorder, we also touch upon the budding genre of esports and its potential translation into an actual career. With this in consideration, we further delve into the difference between aspiring professional players and those diagnosed with internet gaming disorder, in terms of the rate of physical injuries. Lastly, we recount the chief physical injuries as reported in the survey, which include eye fatigue, wrist or hand pain, back or neck pain, and general physical problems like headaches and muscle aches. The episode ends on an open-ended note, awaiting more organized structure and research in the gaming disorder space, hinting at the probability of witnessing a future where generalized practicing encompasses sub-specialties like 'esports physicians'. Feel free to check out The National Center for Youth Substance Use Research at the University of Queensland's website for more information and findings on the subject. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0747563224000499?via%3Dihub

What do patient health, doctor health and environmental health have to do with each other? Dr Nicole Sleeman and Dr Kate Wylie run us through it.

I sat down with Dr John O'Bryen owner of Body Scan Clinic. A GP with additional training in skin cancer medicine, John also runs a thriving dermoscopy Instagram account. John is a keen advocate for doctor's health, and a peer reviewer for the AJGP. A family man, a gentleman and a scholar, join us as we hear about John's story.

We sat down with Dr Terrance Lim, psychiatrist and Director at the Mindsight Clinic. We talked about how to improve mental health care in Australia, the utility of general practice to deliver high quality mental healthcare to patients and ADHD.  

Introducing the heart centred Dr Olivia Ong, a remarkable medical mum and a passionate medical entrepreneur dedicated to delivering healthcare coaching. With a heart-centered and soul-driven approach, Olivia supports fellow healthcare professionals in achieving a more balanced life, enabling them to thrive both at work and at home without experiencing burnout. Olivia's life took a significant turn when, at the age of 28, she was involved in a life-altering accident that left her paralyzed. Despite this immense challenge, Olivia found strength and resilience throughout her recovery journey. This experience gave her a unique perspective as she transitioned from being a medical doctor to becoming a patient herself. Join us as we discuss writing, TED talks and whether done is better than perfect. 

Dr Rebecca Nothrop is a certified professional coach, medical registrar with additional training in cognitive behavioural therapy, qualified group fitness instructor and personal trainer.  Self-doubt is a common feeling that almost every GP has experienced at some point in their lives. Whether you are a successful professional or a student trying to achieve high grades, self-doubt can be a critical factor to your progress. This is where the expert services of Dr. Rebecca Nothrop come into play. Dr. Nothrop is a certified professional coach, medical registrar, group fitness instructor, and personal trainer with additional training in cognitive behavioural therapy. In this blog post, we will explore her journey, strategies and how she has been transforming the lives of women around the world by helping them conquer self-doubt.

Coffee! Most doctors drink it, whether it's to get going in the morning or to make it through a night shift, but how much is too much? We sit down with Ms Kitty Pham a researcher at UniSA to talk about risks and benefits. Kitty's publication is here 'High coffee consumption, brain volume and risk of dementia and stroke'.