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Month: February 2024

Quality Over Quantity: Longer Consultations Lead to Better Outcomes for Older Australians

Posted on by Nathan Onias

A new study by Flinders University has found that longer consultations with a regular GP can significantly improve health outcomes for older Australians. The year-long trial, involving over 1000 patients, showed a decrease in hospital admissions and emergency department visits when patients received longer consultations and a continuity of care.

The trial also revealed improved health outcomes for older Australians when they saw the same doctor regularly, had prioritised appointments and received follow-up care after hospitalisation. These seemingly simple changes fostered a “slow medicine” approach, enabling GPs to provide comprehensive and unhurried care, leading to improved patient experience, reduced hospital visits and a potentially more sustainable healthcare system.

Participants reported feeling less rushed and more engaged in their healthcare. Additionally, GPs reported having more time for preventive care and deeper conversations with patients.

This study supports the RACGP’s call for a Medicare overhaul, including increased rebates and support for practices to expand their teams. While consultation lengths are increasing, GPs often lack appropriate resources, leading to burnout and pressure.

Professor Richard Reed, Head of General Practice at Flinders University, highlights the importance of this research considering the increasing needs of Australia’s aging population and rising healthcare demands. He emphasises that the intervention didn’t introduce new treatments, but rather promoted an approach where GPs could provide comprehensive and unhurried whole-person care.

This study offers compelling evidence that investing in quality time and continuity of care can lead to better health outcomes for patients and a more sustainable healthcare system. It’s time to prioritise “slow medicine” and ensure GPs are adequately supported to deliver the best possible care to all Australians.

How Hearing Loss is Stealing the Soundtrack of Our Lives

Posted on by Nathan Onias

Close your eyes for a moment. What do you hear?

Now, imagine the world without the familiar lilt of a loved one’s voice, or the vibrant energy of your favourite song, or the myriad sounds of nature.

For an alarming number of Australians, this isn’t just an imagined scenario, but a lived reality. Hearing loss, once considered an inevitable consequence of ageing, is now affecting more people at younger ages, and at a concerning rate.

In Australia alone, over 4 million individuals navigate life with hearing loss, and this number is expected to skyrocket to nearly 9 million by 2050.

This isn’t just a statistic; it’s a human story. It’s the young musician straining to hear the perfect pitch, the parent missing their child’s laughter, or the grandparent struggling to follow the conversation. It’s the isolation, the frustration and the fear that comes with a world growing quieter.

Rising exposure to recreational noise, untreated ear infections and a lack of awareness about preventative measures are all contributing to the surge in cases.

The impact of hearing loss goes far beyond missed conversations or muffled music. It affects our social connections, mental wellbeing and even physical health.

Atticus Audiologist, Michelle Esparon, notes, “Untreated hearing loss is linked to increased risk of dementia, depression and falls. It’s a domino effect that begins with subtle hearing loss.”

The good news is that 60% of hearing loss in children is preventable through public health initiatives. For those already experiencing hearing loss, there are a wealth of resources and support available.

Hearing aids, assistive listening devices and rehabilitation programs can significantly improve quality of life. Organisations like Hear For You and the National Acoustic Laboratories offer support, information and advocacy.

Remember, hearing loss is not an inevitable consequence of ageing. It’s a treatable condition, and early intervention is key.

World Cancer Day: Early Detection Saves Lives in Australia

Posted on by Nathan Onias

Each year, on February 4th, the world stands together on World Cancer Day. It’s a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against this disease, but also a day filled with hope. Because while cancer remains a challenge in Australia, with an estimated 165,000 new cases diagnosed in 2023, the good news is this: early detection is key to winning the fight.

Imagine detecting the most common cancers – breast, prostate, colorectal, melanoma, and lung – not when they’ve grown like a large, mature tree, but when they’re just tiny seedlings. Regular check-ups and screenings allow us to catch these “seedlings” early, leading to effective treatment and much better outcomes.

But early detection isn’t just about tests and appointments. It’s about empowering yourself with knowledge. Understanding your risk factors, both unavoidable like age and genetics, and controllable ones like smoking, sun exposure, and unhealthy diet, is crucial. Millions of Australians are affected by cancer, directly or indirectly. By raising awareness, encouraging loved ones to prioritise their health, and taking action for yourself, we can create a ripple effect of positive change.

Here’s what you can do to help:

  • Early detection saves lives, so don’t delay – prioritise your health and schedule your recommended screenings.
  • Talk to your doctor. Understand your individual risk factors and work with your doctor to create a personalised prevention plan.
  • Making healthy lifestyle choices like maintaining a healthy weight, eating well, and exercising regularly can significantly reduce your cancer risk.
  • Spread awareness by talking to your family and friends, encourage them to prioritise their health and screenings, and share reliable information about cancer prevention and early detection.
  • Remember, knowledge is power, and early action is your best weapon.

Contact your nearest Atticus Health clinic to learn more about cancer screening and prevention options, and let’s create a healthier future. Together, we can turn the tide against cancer. Let’s make World Cancer Day not just a day of awareness, but a day of action.