College ConneXion
May 2009
College ConneXion is the monthly 'e-newsletter' of the Royal Australian
and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG).
Look left for ASMs, College-run
courses, professional development, employment and much more.
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We publish brief items of interest to Fellows, Members, Trainees
and Diplomates. Please email
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RANZCOG Announcements
Other Announcements
Professional Development
Trainees
Recent College Publications
Publications
RANZCOG Research Foundation Scholarship applications now open
The RANZCOG Research Foundation is pleased to announce that the following Scholarships, Fellowships and Travel Grants are currently available for application for commencement in 2010:
- Arthur Wilson Memorial Scholarship, 2010-2011
- Fotheringham Research Fellowship, 2010-2011
- Luke Proposch Perinatal Research Scholarship, 2010
- Mary Elizabeth Courier Memorial Research Scholarship, 2010-2012
- Taylor-Hammond Research Scholarship, 2010
- Beresford Buttery Travel Grant, 2010
- Brown Craig Travelling Fellowship, 2010
The Foundation is particularly pleased to advise that the inaugural Mary Elizabeth Courier Research Scholarship is available for application this year. This is a three-year scholarship for research into gynaecological cancer; either or both cancer of the cervix and cancer of the uterus. Click here for further information on this scholarship, including the conditions of award.
For further information on all of the above Scholarships, including application forms and conditions of award, are available on the College website.
Applications close 30 June 2009.
RANZCOG Honours Awards 2009
Call for Nominations for RANZCOG Honours and Awards.
Closing Date 30 June 2009.
College Fellows are invited to submit nominations for the awards of Honorary
Fellowship, Distinguished Service Medal and Certificate of Meritorious Service for
consideration of the RANZCOG Honours Committee and Council in July 2009.
For more information click here.
VTE Prevention Guideline for Public Consultation
The NHMRC has released a draft guideline on VTE Prevention for Public consultation. There is a considerable amount of information in the Guideline regarding pregnancy, childbirth and the puerperium. RANZCOG was represented on the committee that developed the Guideline by:
- A/Prof Barry Walters
- An obstetrics physician
- A clinical associate professor in obstetrics and internal medicine
- Royal Perth Hospital and King Edward Memorial Hospital for Women, Perth
Click here to read the NHMRC draft guideline. Comments on the draft guideline are requested 21 May 2009.
Secondhand textbooks wanted for PNG
RANZCOG has received a request from Nonga, Rabaul, PNG, for some core O&G textbooks for its hospital library. We are hoping to obtain previously loved (but not too old) copies of:
Dewhursts Textbook of Obstetrics and Gynecology
EDMONDS D
Williams Obstetrics
CUNNINGHAM GARY
Obstetrics by Ten Teachers
BAKER PHILIP
Llewellyn Jones Fundamentals of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
OATS JEREMY
Obstetrics and the Newborn
BEISCHER NORMAN
Other medical texts (relevant to primary healthcare) gladly accepted. Please email Carmel Walker cwalker@ranzcog.edu.au if you have suitable books you can send to College House (preferably no older than ten years).
The RANZCOG Fetal Surveillance Education Program (FSEP)
The RANZCOG Fetal Surveillance Education Program (FSEP) continues to deliver highly regarded fetal surveillance education to health care professionals in over 140 centers throughout Australia and NZ. As a RANZCOG program, the FSEP is not-for-profit and remains the leading cost-effective CTG education provider in Australasia.
- Our clinical content is of the highest quality, comprehensively addressing fetal surveillance and CTG use. Our popular face-to-face programs facilitate adult learning whilst being time and resource efficient.
- We are continuing to develop our validated competency assessment tool and have released our online program (OFSEP) to support our face-to-face programs. The OFSEP is now also available as a stand alone product.
- We are near completion on the development of a fetal surveillance handbook to act as an additional resource, as well as meeting individual learning needs.
- Our workshops are accredited with the appropriate medical representative bodies and attract RANZCOG PR&CRM points. Additional PR&CRM points can also be earned by using our straightforward audit tool.
We are currently taking bookings for 2009.
For further information or if you are interested in booking or attending an education session, please contact:
FSEP Administrator
(t) +61 3 9412 2958
(e) fsep@ranzcog.edu.au
SOLS Expanded to Include GP Obstetricians
The Specialist Obstetrician Locum Scheme (SOLS) pilot ended on 30 September 2008. The project was so successful that the initial 15 month pilot was granted additional funding and extended by 12 months. During the pilot, 90 locums were recruited and 74 locum placements occurred in rural and regional Australia, greatly exceeding the project's target.
In the 2008 Federal budget the Government allocated $7.9 million in funding to strengthen support for the rural health workforce. RANZCOG received funding to support and expand the SOLS scheme for a further 3 years and to pilot and develop a SOLS scheme for GP obstetricians. In addition the Australasian Society of Anaesthetists has been funded to develop a SOLS like model for GP Anaesthetists. This is wonderful news for our Provincial Fellows and Diplomates.
Are you interested in participating in 2008 and beyond?
SOLS is calling for rural specialists and diplomates who require locum relief throughout 2008 and 2009. The applicant can be you or your hospital.
SOLS also requires the support of more locums! We have interesting vacancies in locations around Australia, with a mix of public and private work.
To find out more about SOLS contact:
Kate Lawrey
SOLS Coordinator
(t) +61 3 9412 2971
(e) klawrey@ranzcog.edu.au
Anatomy of Complications Workshops 2009, Perth, Western Australia
A two-day intensive hands-on workshop about the anatomy, prevention and management of complications in obstetric and gynaecological surgery.
Where: KEMH & University of Western Australia, Perth
When: 6-7 February 2009; 15-16 May 2009; 10-11 July 2009; 30-31 October 2009
Course Director: Clinical Professor Ian Hammond
Background on Course:
This workshop was established in 2000. All anatomy of complications workshop programmes are divided into four discrete but integrated and related modules, each of which is of half a day's duration. Prior to attending the workshop all participants receive a teaching DVD demonstrating the various procedures to be performed during the practical surgical sessions. They also receive an anatomy CD which is a copy of the material presented at the interactive anatomy lecture during the first module of the workshop. It is crucial that these materials are reviewed by participants prior to attendance at the workshop. An on-line anatomy quiz is available to gain PR&CRM points and is recommended to all participants.
The four modules are:
This workshop usually attracts 10 PR&CRM points and 9 Category A meeting points and this will be applied for in 2009.
For full workshop details go to: www.acworkshop.com .
Surgical Skills Workshops
A workshop in vaginal surgical skills for senior trainees (ie Year 4 onwards) will be conducted at Townsville Hospital in 2009.
Two available dates: 11-12 March and 7-8 October.
Enquiries and registartion: contact Dr Kurinji Kannan at kurinji.kannan@jcu.edu.au
Urgent Need for Locum Clinical Lecturer at the School of Medicine, University of Papua New Guinea
There are three O&G teaching posts available.
Click here ( 718 KB) if you would like to read more.
Interested RANZCOG members or Fellows should contact:
Professor Glen Mola
(t/f) +67 5 325 8212
(e) glenmola@dg.com.pg
Post-Membership Training Opportunities in Fiji and Papua New Guinea
RANZCOG Asia Pacific is promoting post-Membership training opportunities at the Colonial Memorial Hospital in Suva, Fiji and Port Moresby General Hospital, Papua New Guinea.
Rotations of 6 to 12 months can be arranged as part of Year 5 or 6 training.
For further information please contact:
Carmel Walker
Senior Co-ordinator
Executive Services Asia/Pacific
t: +61 3 9417 1699
e: cwalker@ranzcog.edu.au
Funded Training Opportunities for OTS Trainees
A reminder to OTS trainees working towards Fellowship that funding is available via the College for training and upskilling purposes. Funding can be put towards workshop and clinical training sessions run by either the College or outside providers and can also cover travel and accommodation costs.
Use the OTS Funded Training Recommendation Form to apply for funding or to recommend particular training opportunities you would like to see developed.
For further details, contact:
Liam Davison
Support Infrastructure Program Co-ordinator
t: +61 3 9412 2918
e: ldavison@ranzcog.edu.au
Support Infrastructure Program – Training Portfolio Survey
The Support Infrastructure Program is seeking feedback from fellows involved in the supervision of OTS trainees on sample pages from the OTS Training Portfolio that is currently under development. A short online survey is available at www.ranzcog.edu.au/sip/surveys.shtml and interested parties should contact Mr Liam Davison for copies of the sample pages. All feedback is welcome. Respondents need not be currently in a supervisory role.
For further information, please contact:
Liam Davison
Support Infrastructure Program Co-ordinator
(t) +61 3 9412 2918
(e) ldavison@ranzcog.edu.au
CPD Points for Past Meetings
Have you attended a conference and don’t know how many CPD points to claim?
Download the ‘point for past meetings’ list from the website and check if your meeting is listed. www.ranzcog.edu.au/meetingsconferences/pastmeetings.shtml
Points for attendance at all RANZCOG accredited meetings are detailed on this list as well as some of the larger overseas meetings.
If you are attending an overseas meeting that is not included on this list please send a copy of the scientific program to:
Val Spark
Continuing Professional Development Coordinator
(t) +61 3 9412 2921
(f) +61 3 9419 7817
(e) vspark@ranzcog.edu.au
CPD Verification Check
Did you know that there is a CPD verification checking system in place?
Click here ( 50 KB) to read important information about the CPD verification process.
RANZCOG/ACHS Clinical Indicators - update
The Obstetric and Gynaecology clinical indicators sets have been revised to provide greater clarity to several of the definitions.
Click here to view the updated versions available on the RANZCOG website.
Victorian Chief Health Officer Alert – Swine Influenza A
The College has received an alert from the Victorian Chief Health Officer in regard to Swine Influenza A and has been asked to disseminate the information widely.
Click here to view a copy of the alert.
Cutting Edge 2009 – Banaglore
When: 30-31 May 2009
Where: Atria Hotel, Palace Road, Bangalore
For more information click here.
Building Towards Retirement 2009 Workshop
The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS).
When: 13 June 2009 Where: Melbourne
What will you learn?
Surgeons who attend can expect to:
- receive information about retirement and motivation to plan for retirement
- share the experience of retired Fellows to stimulate interest in alternative careers/ lifestyles
- gain financial and legal management information and resource
Key Learning Outcomes:
- To know when to put the scalpel down
- To better understand the psycho-social changes associated with retirement
- To build a well-ballanced, active and creative retirement
- To be aware of the legal requirements of selling or winding down a practice
- To broaden understanding of a superannuation opportunities and tax requirements
Target Group:
Surgeons from all specialties who are considering retirement from operative or other types of surgical practice will benefit from attending this day long workshop. Fellows from a variety of disciplines and their partners join with colleagues and corporate speakers in an interactive discussion format that focuses on three sessions: Preparing for Retirement; Options after Retirement; Resources to Realise Options.
Costs:
To download a registration form click here. For more information contact the Professional Development team on (e) PDactivities@surgeons.org (t) +61 3 9249 1106.
8th Annual Health Insurance Summit
When: 28-29 July 2009
Where: Sydney Harbour Marriott, Australia
With the widespread dissatisfaction of the current health system, government and industry alike are calling for reform.
Yet, despite new reform proposals, the economic downturn and the changes to the Medicare levy surcharge, the number of people with private health insurance rose in the December quarter to 11.1 million. That means 52 per cent of the population is now covered by private health insurance!
But what does the future hold for the industry? Informa’s 8th Annual Health Insurance Summit is at the forefront of exploring the role of private health insurance in Australia’s changing healthcare environment. With over 200 senior healthcare and health insurance attendees last year, the conference is regarded as one of the definitive gatherings for the sector.
Issues to be addressed:
- Effects of the Medicare levy surcharge
- Reactions to the National Health and Hospital Reform Commission reports
- Impacts of consolidation in the market: mergers and restructuring
- The future of dental health and chronic disease management models.
See the full details here: www.healthinsurancesummit.com.au .
Beating Burnout 2009 Workshop
The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS)
When: 1 September 2009
Where: Sydney
What will you learn?
This evening workshop offers advice and practical strategies for achieving a better work/life balance given the competing priorities surgeons face.
You will be able to discuss important stress management issues with your peers and be introduced to proven techniques to manage the effects of burnout.
Key Learning Outcomes:
- To better understand what you need to achieve a work/life balance
- To identify your key "burnout" risk factors
- To develop strategies to manage the effect of burnout.
Target Group: This course is recommended for surgeons and advanced trainees.
Costs:
- $248.00 AUD incl. GST (Members* of the RACS)
- $310.00 AUD incl. GST (Non Members of the RACS)
To download a registration form click here. For more information contact the Professional Development team on (e) PDactivities@surgeons.org (t) +61 3 9249 1106.
AMA (NSW) Clinical Conference 2009
When: 3-8 October 2009
Where: Denarau Island, Fiji
Click here to for more information. Click here to register.
1st International Congress on Women's Health and Unsafe Abortion
When: 20-23 January 2010
Where: Bangkok, Thailand
Early registration by 30 September 2009.
Late registration 1 October to 31 December 2009.
Call for abstracts submission deadline 31 July 2009.
For more information:
(w) www.womenhealth.or.th
(e) womenhealthcongress@gmail.com
(fax) +662 718 0045
Isolated Cases? 100 years of Australian medical research - call for abstracts
When: 21 February 2010
Where: Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney
Marking the centenary of the establishment of the Australian Institute of Tropical Medicine, this one-day colloquium seeks presentations on all aspects of the history of medical research in Australia.
Click here for more information.
Cancer Learning update
Cancer Learning has been developed by a consortium led by the Office of Postgraduate Medical Education at the University of Sydney and comprising the Clinical Oncological Society of Australia (COSA); the National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre (NBOCC); the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP); Cancer Council Australia (CCA).
Cancer Learning aims to consolidate the enormous variety of evidence-based learning activities, resources and information in cancer care available across Australia and overseas. All resources included on site are reviewed to ensure they are evidence based and meet an acceptable standard in terms of: accuracy, currency and relevancy.
The site is designed for all health professionals and allows them to: find existing evidence-based resources and learning activities; build educational programs; and plan their professional development pathway to further their careers and improve the experience for cancer patients.
The Cancer Learning site now has over 1,100 subscribers and includes over 400 resources, including links, in the Evidence & Treatments learning activities section, to the following Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG)’s resources and information:
RANZCOG Gynaecological Oncology Subspeciality
URL: http://www.cancerlearning.gov.au/find/evidtreat_lrn.php
If Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG) has further resources that may be appropriate for Cancer Learning, we would be grateful if you could advise us so they can be evaluated for inclusion on the site. Details of the review methodology are available: http://www.cancerlearning.gov.au/about/review.php.
In addition to the resources gathered from around Australia and overseas, the Cancer Learning team has collaborated with a broad range of cancer care experts to develop resources including:
The Cancer Learning project is formally supported by Cancer Voices, the peak advocacy group for people affected by cancer; public recognition that the aims of the project are highly regarded by cancer consumers.
We would be pleased to discuss Cancer Learning with you should you wish to contact us and welcome your feedback about the project.
Robotics in Gynecologic Surgery
When: 11-12 May 2009
Where: Palo Alto, California, USA
Operative gynecologic laparoscopy has become the accepted modality for treatment of various abdominal and pelvic pathologies. During the past several years, enormous technical advances have taken place to make this procedure practical, safe, and economical. The da Vinci Robot has emerged as an enabler to convert more laparotomies to laparoscopies.
Participants will observe live surgery using the da Vinci with interactive discussion, as well as participate in various hands-on laboratory sessions utilizing inanimate models. Didactic sessions offer focused discussion of current trends, overviews of basic principles, and varying topics based on the participants interests and needs, including:
• Role of da Vinci in Gynecologic Surgery
• Patient Selection • Surgical Techniques
• Patient Positioning and Port Placement
• When to Use 5mm vs. 8mm Instruments etc. For mor information or to register, click here.
2nd Annual Advanced Upper Abdominal and Bowel Cadaver Surgery Course
When: 16-17 May 2009
Where: James Graham Brown Cancer Center, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
For more information or to register, Click here ( 50 KB)
‘Baby Brains’ Workshop, School of Infant Mental Health
When: 16-17 May 2009
Where: London, UK
For more information, click here.
3rd Medical Indemnity Forum 2009
When: Friday 28 August 2009
Where: The Sebel Pier One Hotel, Sydney
This year's issues will cover:
- National Registration - what does it mean for the average doctor ?
- Australia as part of a global financial and insurance environment.
- Risk Management - a new religion for the modern doctor ?
The MIIAA Forum is designed to provide opportunities to discuss issues which affect the health care sector, not just medical indemnity insurers. For more information contact miiaa09@consec.com.au .
7th Singapore International Congress of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
When: 26-29 August 2009
Where: Singapore
Once again, the O&G Society of Singapore is organising the 7th Singapore International Congressof Obstetrics and Gynaecology (SICOG). SICOG is a biennial event and the premier Obstetrical and Gynaecological Congress of the South-East Asia region.
If you would like more details about the Congress, please contact our Congress Secretariat at +65 3125 2071 or via email: jiating@sicog2009.com.
Alternatively, log on to www.sicog2009.com for more information on the Congress.
FIGO/IGCS Educational Workshops 2009-2010
The FIGO Committee for Gynecologic Oncology would like to sponsor a workshop in gynaecologic oncology in a developing country. This 3-7 day programme would provide a series of lectures and discussions given by world experts in gynaecologic cancer in cooperation with local clinicians.
The goal is to promote improved care for women with gynecological cancer and thus reduce the morbidity and mortality of this major health problem. Although the workshop will broadly cover the entire field of gynaecologic cancer, emphasis will be placed on specific areas that could help to establish local programme to enhance women’s health in combating gynaecological cancer. A session on prevention and control of cervical cancer is desirable since cervical cancer is a major killer in developing countries.
Please note that the local FIGO member society must act as co-sponsor or at least provide some financial support. For more information click here ( 42 KB) or go to www.figo.org .
AGES Clinical Research Fund Grants to Fellows and Trainees
AGES has established a Clinical Research Fund with major contribution from Stryker Australia, Platinum Sponsor of AGES. The Society has undertaken to make available a total of up to $300,000 over three years for research into gynaecological surgery and its impact on improvements in women’s health.
Click here ( 50 KB) for more information on applying as a Fellow.
Click here ( 61 KB) for more information on applying as a Trainee or young Fellow.
Privacy Impact Assessment for the IMCA Initiative
Increased MBS Compliance Audits (IMCA) initiative.
Click here to view the DoHA Privacy Impact Assessment for the (above) IMCA Initiative
Australian Bleeding Disorders Registry
Australian governments have funded the redevelopment of the Australian Bleeding Disorders Registry (ABDR) to provide a clinical tool for specialist staff in designated treatment centres and clinics and to improve treatment outcomes for patients with bleeding disorders across Australia. It was implemented in December 2008. Click here ( 29 KB) for more information.
Walter & Eliza Hall Institute alert about the benefits of vitamin D
Click here ( 29 KB) for information about pregnancy and vitamin D deficiency.
Appeal to Brisbane-based doctors for donations of textbooks
Awaken Mozambique is a charity which was launched in June 2008 and is registered as an Incorporated Association in both Australia and Mozambique. It aims to increase community and wellbeing in Mozambique, largely through microeconomic strategies. At the moment a website is not available, but further information can be obtained from Karen Taylor (k3.taylor@qut.edu.au).
Recently the Chair and Treasurer, a medical colleague, visited Beira. They found that the university in Beira had just graduated its’ first new doctors since the conflicts in Mozambique. This was a very small group of 16 and they had achieved their degrees with only a minimum of resources including text books. They hope to graduate between 60 and 80 doctors per year in future. Awaken Mozambique has consequently decided to contribute to future medical training in Mozambique through the donation of text books that are no longer being used by colleagues in Brisbane.
Any textbook, no matter how old, gratefully accepted.
Collection date: 1-12 June 2009
Brisbane collection locations: QML sites, S&N sites and major hospitals.
Enquiries go to Dr Josie Sundin at jsundin@ozemail.com.au .
Smoking and Pregnancy Resource
The Rural Health Education Foundation has a free DVD and accompanying resources for Smoking and Pregnancy which will assist GPs, practice nurses, midwives, drug and alcohol workers and Aboriginal health workers, particularly for those who work and live in rural and remote areas, to provide that support. It contains up to date evidence based information on smoking intervention, services and care.
The DVD provides a comprehensive resource base for health professionals that includes not only the Foundation’s satellite television broadcast but also electronic and printable versions of all the resources included in the National Smoke-Free Pregnancy Project and Pregnancy Lifescripts.
It also features four case studies that depict the difficulties and concerns around smoking for Indigenous and non-Indigenous mothers and a number of approaches and methods for smoking cessation intervention in pregnancy. Included with the DVD is a Learning Guide designed to provide both a summary of the program and a framework for individual and group learning.
In addition the DVD includes two new resource features that provide another dimension for learning opportunities:
Quit Together
This is a 30 second clip to be used as an educational resource that graphically illustrates the effects of smoking in pregnancy and encourages mothers to quit. It is viewed as part of the introduction to the program and is also accessible individually on the DVD. It can be used in education and intervention with pregnant women and their families or in training sessions with health professionals.
National Smoke-Free Pregnancy Project PowerPoint presentation with voiceover
This is an excellent training and education resource that can be used to increase the knowledge, skills and practice for midwives, and those working in birthing services. It contains all the information and reference material to provide midwives with the rationale and means for intervention.
To obtain your free DVD please email your request with your full contact details including email address and phone number to support@rhef.com.au or telephone the Foundation on (02) 6232 5480. Details are also on their website www.rhef.com.au .
Indigenous Adolescent Health Meeting: Research now and into the future
When: Sunday 19 April 2009
Where: Darwin Convention Centre, NT, Australia
Gaps remain in knowledge and understanding of the health issues affecting Indigenous adolescents and how research can help to address these issues. To date, very little research has focused on improving outcomes for Indigenous adolescents, despite higher rates of poor health outcomes related to teenage pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, obesity and injury amongst this group than other Australian adolescents.
The meeting will include presentations on adolescent health issues and current research, small group work to prioritise future research and conclude with a discussion on strategies to take the research agenda forward.
Contributions to the program are welcomed.
For more information click here ( 174 KB) or contact Alice Rumbold at: alice.rumbold@menzies.edu.au .
Doctors Certificate in Sexual and Reproductive Health for Medical Practitioners
When: 11-15 May and 26-30 Oct 2009.
Organised by FPWA Sexual Health Services. The course covers sexual and reproductive health issues for both women and men at a postgraduate level.
CME points apply.
Contact Leza Bridges:
(t) +61 8 9227 6177
(e) leza.bridges@fpwa.org.au
(w) www.fpwa.org.au
11th Annual Meeting of the Diabetes in Pregnancy Study Group of North America
When: 28-30 May 2009
Where: Baltimore, Maryland, USA
For more information:
(t) +1 410 685 7664
(e) umd@aspecialgathering.com
Medical Innovation Conference 2009
When: 11-12 June 2009
Where: Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland
The Business/Higher Education Round Table (BHERT) and the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) are working with Informa to establish a conference on medical innovation.
Following on from the success of last year’s BHERT Innovation event, we are developing a program which will focus on developing solutions to emerging medical challenges and promoting health and wellbeing. Speakers will explore issues surrounding research, development and commercialisation. Health regulators, industry representatives and researchers will come together to discuss the future of medical innovation in Australia.
For more information please visit: www.informa.com.au/medicalinnovation .
7th Annual ePortfolio Conference
When: 22-24 June 2009
Where: London, UK
We expect around 300 delegates from all continents representing all sectors —education, industry, training organisations, consultancies, professional bodies and associations, awarding bodies, standard-setting organisations and solutions suppliers.
A special track dedicated to healthcare will be chaired by Professor Harry Owen from Flinders University (Australia).
The themes of the conference are:
• ePortfolio, innovation and creativity
• ePortfolio, accountability and quality
• ePortfolio, education and personal construction
• ePortfolio, employability and professional development
• ePortfolio, organisational learning and knowledge management
• ePortfolio, policies and implementation
• ePortfolio, technologies and system architectures
In parallel to the ePortfolio conference, two other conferences will address the issues of key/functional skills and learning communities to provide a larger context for the event -- ePortfolio for employability and lifelong learning.
Full conference details are available at: www.epforum.eu .
3rd Annual Uro-Gynaecology Conference, New Zealand
When: 20-21 July 2009
Where: Christchurch, New Zealan
For more information click here ( 54KB) or contact Jan Atkins: jan.atkins@oxfordclinic.co.nz
7th Singapore Congress in O and G
As part of the Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society of Singapore’s (OGSS) continuous medical education program, we are organizing our biennial O&G Congress in August 2009.
This will be our 7th run of the series and will be our most important event of the year. At our last congress, the congress attracted over 400 delegates from over 30 countries.
For more details click here ( 2.6MB) or go to: www.sicog2009.com .
PLACENTA The Key to Pregnancy Success
International Federation of Placental Associations 2009 Meeting
When: 6-9 October 2009
Where: Adelaide, Australia
Abstract submission deadline: 24 April 2009
www.ifpaconference.org/2009
The IFPA 2009 Conference will review cutting-edge placental research from around the world and provide a comprehensive platform for new ideas, exciting presentations and inspiring discussions on a wide range of basic and applied research topics.
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
Marilyn Renfree, University of Melbourne, Australia
Jenny Graves, Australian National University, Australia
TOPICS
Bioactive lipids in placenta
Epigenetics and genetics in placental function
Epigenetics of placentation
Glucocorticoids and placental function
Immune response to pregnancy
Molecular regulation of trophoblast invasion
Placenta in agricultural species
Placenta in production animals
Placenta IUGR and Programming
Placental pathology
Placental stem cells
Placental transport
Predicting adverse pregnancy outcomes
Prediction of pregnancy complications
Pre-implantation perturbations and placenta
Role of placenta in fetal programming
Sex and the placenta
Signalling between fetus and placenta
Trophoblast deportation
Trophoblast endometrium interactions
Abstracts are now invited for oral and poster presentation at the conference on the above topics and should be submitted online by 24 April 2009.
For further information visit: www.ifpaconference.org/2009 or contact n.cosgrove@elsevier.com
Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association 2009 Congress
Shaping Up in Health: How does Australia become the world’s best?
When: 7-9 October 2009
Where: Hobart, Tasmani
For more information go to the Congress website: www.ahhacongress.com.au
IUD and Implanon Workshops
Workshops organised by FPWA Sexual Health Services.
‘IUDs and Intrauterine Systems’ and ‘Implanon Training’. 2009 dates to be determined.
CME points may apply.
To be on the list of interested participants, please contact Leza Bridges:
(t) +61 8 9227 6177
(e) leza.bridges@fpwa.org.au
(w) www.fpwa.org.au
Elsevier Australia announces the launch of MedConnect
MedConnect is an innovative health portal for physicians from across Australia and New Zealand. Providing relevant, high quality and up-to-date information, it is a gateway to leading local and international medical news, research, events, conferences and resources.
MedConnect is organised by medical specialty, with four featured specialties having their own mini-website: Cardiology, Endocrinology, Oncology/Haematology and Psychiatry. Content is sourced from Elsevier's global content-rich resource pool, and selected by editorial team members with input from specialists in a variety of fields. Our portal also hosts community features with Blogs and Forums, and opportunities to comment on news and interact with polls.
Stay connected to the most important developments in medicine with MedConnect. Browse our site and let us know what you think. We look forward to keeping you connected!Visit the website: www.MedConnect.com.au .
Generation Next Seminars
Generation Next are public seminars aimed at understanding the unique health and wellbeing challeges facing generations Y and Z, and how these challenges can be met.
Topics covered include: drugs and alcohol; internet and cybersafety; sex, the media and teenagers; and positive parenting and mental health.
Courses will be held at different locations around Australia.
Click here ( 366 KB) for more information or go to: www.gennextseminars.com
Obstetricians needed for Médecins Sans Frontières Projects (update)
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is the world's leading independent organisation for medical-humanitarian aid. MSF teams are currently in over 60 countries, working with more than 25,000 locally recruited national staff in conditions that are always challenging, sometimes dangerous. Wherever our teams are working their goal is the same: to provide essential medical humanitarian aid to those who need it most, regardless of race, religion, gender or political affiliation.
MSF has a number of posts throughout the world and with increasing numbers of projects involving obstetrics, our need for obstetricians is growing.
Would you or any of your colleagues be interested in these types of positions? Those interested are encouraged to visit our website (www.msf.org.au) to learn more about our basic requirements and application process.
Flu vaccination for pregnant women and their carers
The National Health and Medical Research Council recommend the annual vaccination for women planning a pregnancy, pregnant women, women who will be in the second or third trimester during the influenza season as well as women who will be in the first trimester at the time of the vaccination. More detailed information can be found on the following websites:
- The Australian Immunisation Handbook 9th edition 2008 search ‘pregnancy’ for the recommendation:
www.immunise.health.gov.au/
University of Queensland’s Doctors’ e-Cohort Study
Help to make a difference to the medical workforce. Join our FIVE YEAR MISSION!
Click here ( 80 KB) Click here for more information
Baby and You: Addressing smoking cessation in pregnant women and their partners
Baby and You is an innovative smoking cessation resource for pregnant women and their partners, recently launched by the Cancer Council Queensland.
Baby and You provides information and interactive strategies to support pregnant women to quit smoking and to maintain cessation following delivery. Baby and You also encourages a healthy pregnancy through adequate nutrition, physical activity and stress management and focuses on the importance of maintaining a smokefree environment after birth.
In acknowledgement of the role of partners in influencing a woman’s decision to smoke and to quit, Baby and You also provides targeted information and support to partners of pregnant women to encourage and support their own cessation.
To order copies of Baby and You, please complete and return the faxback form ( 80 KB) . Copies are available free of charge to Obstetricians practising within Queensland. Copies of Baby and You are available to Obstetricians in other states of Australia at $1.80 per copy (plus postage and handling).
For further information, please telephone Emma Dalglish (Team Leader, Tobacco Issues Program) on 3258 2254.
The 6th Annual Future of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme
When: 30 April and 1 May 2009
Where: Radisson Plaza Hotel, Sydney, Australia
This summit will examine the changes to the PBS and the implications
of policy directions for the pharmaceutical industry.
Web: www.informa.com.au/PBS
Email: registration@informa.com.au or tina.larssen@informa.com.au
2nd Annual Green Hospitals Conference
When: 20-21 May 2009
Where: Hilton on the Park, Melbourne, Australia
With so many large scale environmentally sustainable health care facilities
being developed in Australia, 2009 promises to be a big year for Green Hospitals.
Web: www.informa.com.au/greenhospitals
Email: registration@informa.com.au or katy.henson@informa.com.au
8th World Congress in Fetal Medicine Change of Venue
As you know we were planning to have our 8th World Congress in Israel. However, due to the recent troubles in Gaza, many of you have raised concerns and notified us that you would not be able to attend given the circumstances. We sincerely hope that there will be peace in the Middle East and that we will be able to hold one of our future congresses there, because we strongly believe that Fetal Medicine more than anything else should be a mechanism of bringing people together for the common objective of having healthy women and children.
We have now managed to make alternative arrangements for the World Congress to be held in Riviera Portorose, Slovenia, the dates are still from the 28 June to 2 July.
This is a fantastic venue and I very much look forward to seeing you in June.
More details are available on our website.
Focus in O and G Congress
When: 6-7 June 2009
Where: Prince of Wales Hospital, Honk Kong
Pre-FOCUS Congress Perineal Ultrasound Workshop
Date: 5 June 2009
Speaker: Dr Hans Peter Dietz
Please click here for details.
Pre-/Post-FOCUS Congress Midwifery Workshop - Promotion of normal birth
Speaker: Prof Cathy Warwich
Date: 5 June 2009 (Frontline staff) / 8 June 2009 (Senior staff)
Please click here for details.
Call for Abstracts
The Scientific Committee invites submissions of original work for consideration of presentation at the Congress. All abstracts will be in poster and video format.
Abstracts should be submitted to the Secretariat via internet. The deadline for submission is 6 February 2009. The Scientific Committee will confirm the acceptance of the abstract by 20 February 2009. For details, click here.
Enquiries
Contact Ms Clara Lau
Tel: (852) 2632 1535
Fax: (852) 2636 0008
Email: focus@med.cuhk.edu.hk
13th Australasian Menopause Society Congress
When: 18-20 September 2009
Where: National Convention Centre, Canberra, Australia
‘Controversies, Challenges, Canberra’
For more information:
Ph: +61 2 9265 0700
Fax: +61 2 9267 5443
Email: menopause@tourhosts.com.au
Web: www.menopause.org.au
Vaginal Surgical Skills Workshop
When: 4-5 March 2009 and 7-8 October 2009
Where: Townville Hospital, Queensland
Click here ( 45 KB) for more information.
Contact:
Dr Kurinji Kannan
kurinji.kannan@jcu.edu.au
Register as potential NHMRC assessors
NHMRC has recently written to a number of researchers inviting them to register as potential NHMRC assessors and to indicate their willingness to be considered for membership of one of our peer review panels in 2009.
We’ve now received a positive response from a very large number of researchers. However, to ensure the best possible coverage of fields of research and the invitation is disseminated as widely as possible, we are now extending this invitation to include a number of research societies, colleges and other organisations that support researchers in the health and medical research community.
To register, we are asking researchers to complete and submit a Peer Review Participation Form ( 211 KB). Data from the Peer Review Participation Form will be used to populate our new data management system. This will allow us to more effectively facilitate the appointment of peer review panel members and assessors to our various research funding schemes.
If researchers experience any technical difficulties completing the NHMRC Peer Review Participation Form, please go to the NHMRC Peer Review Participation Form User Manual available at: www.nhmrc.gov.au/grants/peer/participation.htm .
Queries concerning the NHMRC Peer Review Participation Form should be referred to the GrantNet Helpdesk on 1800 500 983 or grantnet.help@nhmrc.gov.au .
Australian Volunteers International
Australian Volunteers International (AVI) recruits volunteers to share skills and build relationships with people of developing communities. We assist our partner organisations to reduce poverty, promote human rights and gender equality, protect the environment, provide health and education services and fight HIV/AIDS.
Volunteering is a professional challenge; AVI volunteers apply skills acquired in the Australian workplace in a challenging and unusual setting, and support a process of international development that is led and managed by local people. To do this, they need to be flexible, patient, confident and self-aware.
The Australian Volunteer Program is funded by the Australian Government through AusAID. Volunteers receive airfares, briefing and orientation, living and accommodation allowances, and health and travel insurance.
To find out more about our upcoming assignments and public Information Sessions, please visit www.australianvolunteers.com .
12th Greek/Australian International Legal and Medical Conference
When: 31 May-6 June 2009
Where: Samos, Greece
Theme: Our Challenged World: How Can Law and Medicine Respond
Further Information:
Jenny Crofts
Tel: +61 3 9429 2140
Fax: +61 3 9421 1682
Email: jennycrofts@ozemail.com.au
Web: www.LMconference.com.au
Click here ( 37 KB) for a conference program. Click here ( 1.4 MB) for a registration form.
PROGRESS Trial Update
Are you able to collaborate in the Australian and New Zealand randomised trial of vaginal progesterone for the prevention of preterm birth?
Click here ( 133 KB) for more updated information on the PROGRESS Trial.
3rd International IVI Congress Towards a New National Women’s Health Policy
When: 14-16 May 2009
Where: Madrid, Spain
For more information click here.
FOCUS Inaugural Congress
When: 6 and 7 June 2009
Where: Hong Kong
On behalf of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of The Chinese University of Hong Kong and The Chinese Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, we would like to invite you to participate in our inaugural congress on Fertility, Obstetrics, Cancers, Urogynaecology and endoScopy (FOCUS). Please refer to the website for the congress details: http://department.obg.cuhk.edu.hk/focus/focus.asp
The aim of this congress is to update and refresh the knowledge of participants in regard to the recent advances in the major areas of our specialty. A panel of international and local speakers has been invited to share their expertise and experience in their respective areas of excellence.
During the FOCUS conference we will encourage the promotion of evidence-based practice, as well as encouraging debate between the invited experts and participants. We hope this will lead to the enhancement of existing collaborations as well as the establishment of new collaborations between all participants and especially those from mainland China. We hope that this meeting will become the ‘FOCUS’ point of those who are practising obstetrics and gynaecology in the years to come.
16th International Meeting of the European Society of Gynaecological Oncology (ESGO)
When: 11-14 October 2009
Where: Belgrade, Serbia
Over 1700 professionals seeking the latest medical and scientific information on gynaecological cancer treatment and care are expected to attend ESGO 2009 Belgrade - Europe’s landmark meeting on Gynaecological Oncology.
Click here for more information or to register.
New email subscription service for healthcare professionals about medical devices
New email subscription service for healthcare professionals about medical devices
Subscribe to the MDMVM email list.
The purpose of this email list is to provide information and advice about medical devices to assist health professionals diagnose, treat and/or manage their patients' medical conditions. Information will be provided periodically as it becomes available.
Subscribers to the MDMVM email list will receive email notifications of recalls, safety alerts and general safety information about medical devices.
Please note: This email list is for health professionals only and requests to subscribe to this list must be approved by the TGA Market Vigilance and Monitoring Unit before you will be added to the list.
To request to be subscribed to the MDMVM email list, please complete and submit the form through the link below. Your details will not be shared with third parties. This form will request for one email address to be subscribed to the MDMVM email list. If you wish to subscribe more than one email address, please submit separate forms for each address.
If you need to change your email address, please unsubscribe your old email address and then request a subscription for your new email address.
www.tga.gov.au/problem/mdmvm-subscribe.htm
Towards a New National Women’s Health Policy
The development of a new National Women’s Health Policy moved a step closer with the Australian Government’s release of a paper outlining the aims of the policy. To view the full media release, click on the link below:
http://www.health.gov.au/internet/ministers/publishing.nsf/Content/mr-yr08-nr-nr186.htm
Managing Obstetric Emergencies and Trauma (MOET) Course 2009
When: 9-21 November 2009
Where: Australia
The Managing Obstetric Emergencies and Trauma (MOET) Course is coming to Australia in November 2009. A series of three courses will be run to train the first home-grown Australian faculty of MOET instructors to make this course the runaway success here that it is in the UK.
Expressions of interest are sought from senior obstetricians and obstetric anaesthetists, who wish to become MOET instructors and who can commit to an intensive two-week series of instructor training courses in November 2009.
For further information about MOET please visit the Advanced Life Support Group web site on www.alsg.org and look up MOET under the ‘course information’ page.
To register your interest in becoming a MOET instructor please contact Jenny Antrobus at ALSG on jantrobus@alsg.org or Rahul Sen at rahulsen@doctors.org.uk . Please supply the following information: name, address, mobile number, email address, location, and job title/description.
Code of Conduct for Medical Practitioners
The Australian Medical Council (AMC) has drafted a code of conduct for medical practitioners in Australia entitled Good Medical Practice. This is based on the original document from the United Kingdom, which was also adapted for use in New Zealand. The document is designed to indicate ‘clear, nationally consistent standards of practice’ for doctors in Australia and is intended for adoption in association with the impending national registration system. The AMC is currently undertaking a wide consultation related to this document, with meetings involving medical practitioners and the public being conducted around the country. A website relating to the document can be found at: http://goodmedicalpractice.org.au/ .
SWEC Advanced Gynaecological Laparoscopic Course 2009
When: 16-20 March, 27-31 July, 19-23 October
Where: Sydney Womens Endosurgery Centre (SWEC), St George Hospital Sydney
Course Director: Dr Gregory M Cario
We invite you to participate in our advanced gynaecological laparoscopy course. This five-day course is aimed at consultants and registrars keen to develop laparoscopic skills, refresh their pelvic anatomy and broaden their repertoire of laparoscopic surgery. You will have exposure during live surgery to five different advanced laparoscopic surgeons and see their different styles and approaches to pelvic floor reconstruction, TLH and endometriosis.
Comprehensive Course Curriculum:
- Cadaveric dissection on fresh frozen specimens
- Anatomy lectures at University of New South Wales
- Dry Laboratory training on state-of-the-art virtual reality trainers
- Endometriosis workshop
- Live operating sessions with opportunity to assist
- Live animal workshop
- 43 CPD points (practice improvement points may also be claimed)
- Limited to eight participants per course
Register on-line at www.swec.com.au or contact us:
Dr Gregory Cario, SWEC Director at doc@drgregorymcario.com.au or Michelle Robins, Workshop Administrator, tel: +61 2 9113 2315 or email: michelle.robins@sesiahs.health.gov.au
16th World Congress on Disaster and Emergency Medicine
When: 12-15 May 2009
Where: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.
The World Association of Disaster and Emergency Medicine (WADEM) invites you to register for the 16th World Congress on Disaster and Emergency Medicine (WCDEM).
WCDEM 2009 will bring the World’s disaster and emergency experts to Victoria, British Columbia, to review, assess, and make recommendations for the advancement of best practices based on available and new evidence regarding preparedness and management of the events that inflict damage on the inhabitants and environment of our planet. The Organizing Committee is building on the success of the 15th World Congress convened in Amsterdam in 2007 in which more than 900 delegates from around the world participated.
WCDEM 2009 will provide multiple tracks pertinent to Disaster and Emergency Health, with world renowned speakers, timely topics, current research, and workshops using the newest technology. Participation in the Congress will provide the delegates not only with high quality educational sessions, but also opportunities for networking, assessment of current standards of care and best practices, protocols, equipment, supplies, and treatment in this rapidly growing discipline. Who Should Attend This Conference? Emergency Room Physicians, Family Physicians and Specialists, Nurses, Paramedics, Para Medical Professionals, Ambulance Services, Representatives in Emergency Services or Emergency Planning.
Who Should Attend This Conference? Emergency Room Physicians, Family Physicians and Specialists, Nurses, Paramedics, Para Medical Professionals, Ambulance Services, Representatives in Emergency Services or Emergency Planning.
To register visit: www.wcdem2009.org or info@wcdem2009.org
3rd International IVI Congress, Spain
When: 14-16 May 2009
Where: Palacio de Congresos, Madrid, Spain
Abstracts submission deadline: 10 February 2009
Early registration: 10 March 2009
For more information go to www.comtecmed.com/ivi/2009/ .
AAGL 3rd International Congress on Minimally Invasive Gynaecology in conjunction with the XIX AGES ASM
When: 21-23 May 2009
Where: Brisbane, Australia
Theme: Sex, Surgery and Gynaecology
For more information visit: www.ages.com.au or www.aagl.org .
Click here ( 1.2 MB) to read AAGL brochure
19th World Congress on Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynaecology
When: 13-17 September 2009
Where: Hamburg, Germany
In the tradition of ISUOG’s congresses, the program offers two parallel streams giving state of the art updates and new research presentations in obstetrics and gynecology. The sessions incorporate the popular live scan demonstrations of normal ultrasound findings by leading world experts, as well as plenty of opportunities for small group discussions through Oral Poster sessions and interactive sessions.
For regular updates on the scientific program, fees and CME accreditation visit the Congress website: www.isuog.org .
XIX FIGO World Congress of Gynaecology and Obstetrics
When: 4-9 October 2009
Where: Cape Town, South Africa
First Announcement is now available on the Congress website: www.figo2009.org.za/announcements/First%20Announcement%20Final%201.pdf
MSAC Completed Assessment
For details of the MSAC Assessment on Hysteroscopic sterilisation by tubal cannulation and placement of intrafallopian implant please follow the link below:
Application 1055 - Hysteroscopic sterilisation by tubal cannulation and placement of intrafallopian implant
Clinical Surveyors Required
Opportunity to provide clinical leadership and expand your professional experience.
The Australian Council on Healthcare Standards (ACHS) is seeking clinicians to join our team of surveyors. Surveyors play a collaborative role during onsite accreditation surveys and provide education and information, both formally and informally, so that the organisation being surveyed can understand how to progress.
Many College Fellows are already involved in surveying and make a valuable contribution. The ACHS surveyor workforce consists of approximately 370 experienced, senior health care practitioners with recent and broad experience in health care.
Training is provided to surveyors through an induction program. Ongoing education and information is provided throughout the year.
To find further information about the ACHS and becoming a clinical surveyor, please refer to the website: www.achs.org.au/becomingasurveyor or email Heather McDonald, Executive Manager, Customer Services, ACHS: hmcdonald@achs.org.au
Medicine in Australia: Balancing Employment and Life (MABEL) the Australian Longitudinal Survey of Doctors
Fellows and Diplomates may be interested in participating in this Survey which has been funded by the NHMRC.
Please visit this site for information about the survey and to register your interest https://mabel.org.au/default.html .
The health workforce is now a key focus of government policy. The ever-increasing demand for healthcare, the ageing of the medical workforce, the increase in the number of women entering medicine and changes in doctors preferences in relation to their work life balance, all have an impact on the ability of the healthcare system to provide high quality and accessible healthcare. Despite this, there is little knowledge or understanding of how and why doctors make decisions about such things as how many hours they work, their location of work (including decisions about working in rural and remote areas) or when to leave the medical workforce and retire. These decisions have important implications for the populations' access to healthcare and therefore their health status and the quality of care received.
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