Articles of interest

Mindfulness training: An adjunctive role in the management of chronic illness? [Free full text]

Monshat K, Castle D. (2012). Medical Journal of Australia, 196(9), 569-571.
There is increasing evidence that mindfulness training may assist with alleviating psychological distress and improving patients’ quality of life when used in an integrated chronic disease management approach, as described in this MJA clinical focus. [Abstract précis by PHC RIS]
See: www.mja.com.au/journal/2012/196/9/mindfulness-training-adjunctive-role-management-chronic-illness

"But what does it mean for me" Primary care patients' communication preferences for test results notification

Elder N, Barney K. (2012). Joint Commission Journal on Quality and Patient Safety, 38(4), 168-176.
There is little information available regarding the best way to communicate test results to promote satisfaction and improved health decision making among primary care patients. Based on interview data this paper provides detail around communication elements and notification technique including aspects of the information shared, significance of results and personal preferences for communication which promote patient understanding. [Abstract précis by PHC RIS]
See: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22533129

Accessing maternal and child health services in Melbourne, Australia: Reflections from refugee families and service providers [Free full text]

Riggs E, Davis E, Gibbs L, Block K, Szwarc J, Casey S, Duell-Piening P, Waters E. (2012). Health Services Research, 12: 117.
This qualitative research explored the experience of using the Victorian maternal and child health service from the perspectives of service providers and families from refugee backgrounds. Findings identified both facilitative factors and challenges to continued use, at system and patient levels. Recommendations for future practice are presented. [Abstract précis by PHC RIS]
See: www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6963/12/117/abstract

Complementary and alternative medicine education for medical profession: Systematic review [Free full text]

Quartey N, Ma P, Chung V, Griffiths S. (2012). Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, doi: 10.1155/2012/656812.
In order to integrate traditional, complementary and alternative medicine (TCAM) into health systems there have been increasing efforts to educate biomedical doctors and medical students on TCAM. This review describes the positive changes often reported in the literature, in addition to identifying the diverse teaching processes applied and the need for further research into the methods and overall effectiveness of TCAM education. [Abstract précis by PHC RIS]
See: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3350858/

It's here! Are we ready? Five case studies of health promotion practices that address climate change from within Victorian health care settings

Patrick R, Capetola T. (2011). Health Promotion Journal of Australia, 22(Special issue), S61-67.
This Australian research addresses health promotion practice among health care agencies identifying climate change as a specific priority. In these case studies practice was directed toward active and sustainable transport, healthy and sustainable food supply, mental health and community resilience, engaging vulnerable populations and organisational development. The health promotion approaches were deemed to be transferable to action on climate change in health settings. [Abstract précis by PHC RIS]
See: search.informit.com.au/documentSummary;dn=076291626536081;res=IELHEA

The need to tackle concussion in Australian football codes [Free full text]

Gilbert F, Partridge B. (2012). Medical Journal of Australia, 196(9), 561-563.
Concerns about the risk of concussions in sport have been raised following post-mortem evidence of chronic traumatic encephalopathy in the brains of American National Football League players who suffered concussions while playing. This MJA Perspectives article discusses concerns around possible long-term neurological damage, cognitive impairment and mental health problems in Australian football players (i.e., rugby league, rugby union, Australian rules, soccer) who sustain concussions. [Abstract précis by PHC RIS]
See: www.mja.com.au/journal/2012/196/9/need-tackle-concussion-australian-football-codes

The possibilities of technology in shaping healthcare professionals: (Re/De-) Professionalisation of pharmacists in England

Petrakaki D, Barber N, Waring J. (2012). Social Science & Medicine, 75(2), 429-437.
This paper presents findings from longitudinal research into the introduction of the Electronic Prescription Service in community pharmacies in England. The study demonstrates the manner in which technology is able to shape healthcare professionals and the nature of their work including its nature, values, roles, degree of power, jurisdictions and boundaries; and describes how technology opens up a field where de-professionalisation and re-professionalisation processes are able to occur simultaneously. [Abstract précis by PHC RIS]
See: www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0277953612003000

What do graduate registered nurses want from jobs in rural/remote Australian communities?

Bennett P, Barlow V, Brown J, Jones D. (2012). Journal of Nursing Management, 20(4), 485-490.
In rural and remote areas nurses outnumber doctors 8:1. In this literature review the needs of new graduate registered nurses working in rural and remote areas of Australia were explored. Themes around expectations, support and workloads reflected enablers and disablers of retention of nurses as they move from student role through new graduate practice. [Abstract précis by PHC RIS]
See: onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-2834.2011.01254.x/abstract

Reports

BC Knowledge Translation Needs Assessment: Initial Findings

Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research
This online survey of Knowledge Transfer (KT) resource and training needs was launched to enhance KT initiatives supporting the use of health research evidence. The survey sought input on current KT activities as well as respondents’ interests.
See: www.msfhr.org/about/KT/needs_assessment

Contexts and Models in Primary Healthcare and their Impact on Interprofessional Relationships

Canadian Health Services Research Foundation (CHSRF)
This report examines Alberta’s experience in the development of Primary Care Networks (PCNs) over the period 2007 to 2011. Researchers used a comparative case study approach to describe how contextual influences act together with the different characteristics of the primary health care models in Alberta to influence outcomes, with a particular emphasis on the role of inter-professional relationships.
See: www.chsrf.ca/PublicationsAndResources/ResearchReports/ArticleView/12-05-01/df7ba517-ac8a-48cd-81d0-b31a4d690618.aspx

Economic Impact of Improvements in Primary Healthcare Performance 

Canadian Health Services Research Foundation
This report presents the results of four different approaches to evaluate the economic impact of enhancements to PHC: 1. A synthesis of the literature on the macro- and micro-economic effects of good health, with specific relevance to PHC performance; 2. A systematic review of the economic impact of incorporating a pharmacist into a PHC practice; 3. A simulation exercise that evaluates the economic impact of improvements to influenza immunization rates for older adults brought about by provider reminder systems in PHC; 4. A literature review of reductions in burden of illness associated with PHC interventions directed at blood pressure control, enhanced diabetes management, increased uptake of cancer screening and improved continuity of care.
See: www.chsrf.ca/PublicationsAndResources/ResearchReports/ArticleView/12-05-22/69ba64a0-7283-4994-a766-587380e81b78.aspx

Embedding of research into decision-making processes

Alliance for Health Policy and Systems Research
This paper concerns the uptake of research evidence in policy decisions for health. It examines both conceptual paradigms and country case studies from the perspective of six WHO building blocks: service delivery, health workforce, information, medical products, financing, and governance.
See: www.who.int/alliance-hpsr/alliancehpsr_backgroundpaperembeddingresearch.pdf

Primary Care and Public Health: Exploring Integration to Improve Population Health

The National Academies Press
Ensuring that members of society are healthy and reaching their full potential requires the prevention of disease and injury; the promotion of health and well-being; the assurance of conditions in which people can be healthy; and the provision of timely, effective, and coordinated health care. Achieving substantial and lasting improvements in population health will require a concerted effort from all these entities, aligned with a common goal.
See: www.nap.edu/catalog.php?record_id=13381

Primary care: today and tomorrow - improving general practice by working differently

Deloitte Centre for Health Solutions
This report reviews the historic role of British general practitioners (GPs) in primary care before offering evidence-based solutions to today’s challenges. The report highlights the importance of the Registered Patient List System (RPLS) built by Britain’s GPs in developing future models of care.
See: www.deloitte.com/assets/Dcom-UnitedKingdom/Local%20Assets/Documents/Research/Centre%20for%20health%20solutions/uk-chs-primarycare.pdf

Audio & Video

Detecting breast cancer

The Health Quarter, 12:59 mins
Sophie Scott and the Health Quarter team speak to scientists about a blood test that may be able to detect breast cancer years before any symptoms, and Adelaide University reveals discoveries about freezing embryos and birth defects.
See: www.abc.net.au/health/video/healthquarter/default.htm?url=/health/video/clips/3508039.htm

Food allergy awareness week 2012 CSA

Anaphylaxis Australia
The charity Anaphylaxis Australia has called for a national strategy to address food allergy risk, releasing a series of celebrity YouTube clips targeting teenagers.
See: www.foodallergyaware.com.au/videos/

Resources

New MABEL newsletter now available 

The issue covers: New NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Medical Workforce Dynamics; MABEL used by Health Workforce Australia; MABEL assists rural medical workforce planning; MABEL progress; Come to the Inaugural MABEL Research Forum; and Some recent publications.
See: mabel.org.au/newsletter/mabel%20newsletter%20no7.pdf

Streamlined Approach to Ethical Review of Research within SA Public Sector

SA Health has reviewed its approach to the management and administration of research ethics and research governance across the S.A. public health system. Further information is provided via SA Health Website.
See: www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/public+content/sa+health+internet/about+us/research/research+ethics/frequently+asked+questions+on+ethical+research

News items

Australian science: healthy but starting to splutter

Norrie J, The Conversation, 23 May 2012
Australian science is “generally in good health”, but faces major challenges in the form of falling science participation and literacy in high schools, mostly stagnant enrolments at universities, and diminishing focus on the “enabling sciences” – mathematics, physics and chemistry, a comprehensive review has found.
See: theconversation.edu.au/australian-science-healthy-but-starting-to-splutter-7194

Dangerous addiction – should doctors be tested for drug use?

Sim M, The Conversation, 25 May 2012
Doctors, just like the rest of the population, make personal choices about drug use.
See: theconversation.edu.au/dangerous-addiction-should-doctors-be-tested-for-drug-use-7108

First national free-to-air health TV channel launched to connect with rural and remote communities 

Rural Health Education Foundation, 23 May 2012
The Rural Health Channel, aimed at people living and working in the more remote corners of the country, began broadcasting this week.
See: www.rhef.com.au/2012/05/23/first-national-free-to-air-health-tv-channel-launched-to-connect-with-rural-and-remote-communities/

Should the latest research about plastics exposure worry us?

Musgrave I, The Conversation, 28 May 2012
Bisphenol A (BPA) – a solvent added to a synthetic resin to promote plasticity and flexibility and reduce brittleness – has been in the news quite a bit lately.
See: theconversation.edu.au/should-the-latest-research-about-plastics-exposure-worry-us-6922

The legal challenge that could stop homeopathy in its tracks

Arnold B, The Conversation, 22 May 2012
One hundred years of rigorous scientific research hasn’t dented the faith of adherents of homeopathy.
See: theconversation.edu.au/the-legal-challenge-that-could-stop-homeopathy-in-its-tracks-6557

Media releases

30-year trends show improvement in Aussie kids' oral health

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 25 May 2012
Australian children’s oral health has improved markedly over the last 30 years, according to a report released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.
See: www.aihw.gov.au/media-release-detail/?id=10737421941

Banking on volunteers

Silver Chain, 24 May 2012
Silver Chain, in collaboration with Foodbank WA and Suncorp Bank, launched an innovative volunteering initiative in Perth on Wednesday 23 May, showcasing the difference volunteers can make in the lives of those most in need.
See: www.silverchain.org.au/banking-on-volunteers/

Better use of health data will transform the healthcare landscape, says expert report

European Commission, 7 May 2012
A high-level group of experts today warned that Europeans will only be able to benefit from the affordable, less intrusive and more personalised healthcare which Information & Communication Technologies (ICT) can bring if agreement is reached on how to use health data.
See: europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/12/453&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Bulk billing rates at record highs

Hon Tanya Plibersek, 24 May 2012
Bulk billing rates reached a record high in the March quarter, with 81.2% of GP services bulk billed.
See: www.health.gov.au/internet/ministers/publishing.nsf/Content/mr-yr12-tp-tp048.htm

Expert mental health care now just a phone call away

Hon Kevin Humphries, 23 May 2012
Every resident of NSW will have direct telephone access to expert mental health advice for the first time following the launch of a 24 hour telephone support service by the Minister for Mental Health, Kevin Humphries.
See: www.health.nsw.gov.au/news/2012/20120523_00.html

Conferences/seminars/forums/workshop

Alzheimer's Australia 15th National Conference

The Tiles of Life, Colouring the Future
Each of us has our own story and our life experiences impact the future even when there is a diagnosis of dementia. Touched by dementia in whatever way our future will be influenced by our needs, passions, direction and expectations. Together at this Conference where memory loss brings us all together lets colour the future
with our shared stories of hope, inspiration, innovation and courage. We are keen to hear from people in all parts of the health and care system or from people who are living with dementia or other disabilities, to learn from their experiences.
Date: May 14 2013 - May 17 2013
Call for abstracts: Nov 30 2012
Location: Hobart TAS
Convenor: Leishman Associates
Contact: Helene Stewart
Phone: +61 (0)3 6234 7844
Fax: +61 (0)3 6234 5958
Email: helene@leishman-associates.com.au
Website: www.alzheimers2013.com/

Pathways to a Consumer Focussed Organisation - Governance and Managerial Approaches

Master Class with facilitators Stephanie Newell and Mitchell Messer
29 August 2012 - Brisbane, QLD
30 August 2012 - Sydney, NSW
31 August 2012 - Melbourne, VIC
We are pleased to inform you about our upcoming Master Class on consumer participation and partnership in the context of health care quality improvement. Especially of interest to board members, health service executives, clinicians, safety & quality co-ordinators/managers, risk managers, clinical governance managers and health consumers.
Date: Aug 29 2012 - Aug 31 2012
Early bird registration: Aug 16 2012
Location: Australia
Convenor: Change Champions & Associates
Fax: +61 (2) 9518 6898
Email: info@changechampions.com.au
Website: www.changechampions.com.au

Vacancies, fellowships & scholarships

Associate Dean (Medical Education)

ANU Medical School, School of Health and Psychological Sciences, ANU College of Medicine, Biology and Environment
Position Level: Level D-E
Salary Package: $116,347 - $144,187 pa plus 17% superannuation
Reference: A250-12EY
As the Associate Dean (Medical Education), you will have a clearly demonstrable capability in curriculum development, delivery, evaluation and assessment. You will be strongly committed to achieving excellence in medical education including scholarship in teaching and learning. You will have a rich knowledge of contemporary medical educational practice. Experience in problem based learning is essential.
Closing date: Jul 06 2012
See: www.unijobs.com.au/show.php?title=associate_dean_medical_education_63979

Associate Research Fellow

Job Reference: 24284
Fixed Term: Two years
Based at DSTO Melbourne
This position will be based at the Human Protection and Performance Division of the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO: Melbourne). You will be part of this team that will participate in research planning, preparation, data collection, data analysis and reporting associated with all phases of this project. You will be required to travel to, and work at Australian Defence Force facilities during the field research phases of this project.
Closing date: Jun 17 2012
See: www.unijobs.com.au/show.php?title=associate_research_fellow_63970

Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Job no.: 493477
Salary: Academic Research Level A4 ($70,676.68 - $75,867.70)
Work type: full time, fixed term
Location: Brisbane (St Lucia)
The Postdoctoral Research Fellow will work in the laboratory of Prof Istvan Toth, under direct supervision of Prof Toth. The team uses multidisciplinary approaches to develop therapeutical vaccine against infectious diseases.
Closing date: Jun 08 2012
See: www.unijobs.com.au/show.php?title=postdoctoral_research_fellow_63931

Senior Research Assistant

Reference: 494695
Element: NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Nursing Interventions for Hospitalised Patients (NCREN)
Work type: fixed term (3 years)
The Senior Research Assistant will be responsible for providing high level of research support to the NCREN chief investigators. The role includes assisting with systematic reviews, preparation of research proposals, general coordination of research projects, data analysis and preparation of journal and report publications.
Closing date: Jun 08 2012
See: www.unijobs.com.au/show.php?title=senior_research_assistant_63962

Senior Research Fellow

Job no.: 502199
Location: Alfred hospital
Employment type: full time, fixed term
Salary range: $141,875 - $156,297 pa Level D (includes 17% employer superannuation)
As Senior Research Fellow in the School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine you will play a key role in the school's research, particularly in the area of epidemiological modelling - the Monash Epidemiological Modelling and Monitoring Unit (EMMU).
The broad impact of this position will also be to provide an evidence base for improved decision making in the area of chronic disease prevention and management.
Closing date: Jun 17 2012
See: www.unijobs.com.au/show.php?title=senior_research_fellow_63960

Grants & tenders

Beat Cancer Project Infrastructure Funding Opportunity

South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI)
Please visit the below website for information on the Beat Cancer Project Infrastructure Funding opportunity. Applications are now open.
See: www.sahmri.com/research/the-beat-cancer-project/apply-for-beat-cancer-project-funding

Foundation for Alcohol Research & Education - Professor Ian Webster Scholarship

The Scholarship will be awarded to an applicant who has demonstrated a long-term commitment to the alcohol and other drugs (AOD) sector and will provide $10,000 towards a program of study, independently-led research or personal development opportunities.
Closing date: Jun 30 2012
See: www.fare.org.au/community/ian-webster-scholarship/

Calls for submissions

National guide to a preventive health assessment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people 

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP)
The RACGP and the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation have recently launched an updated guide to assist healthcare providers to deliver best practice healthcare and prevent disease in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations. The National guide to a preventive health assessment provides health professionals with the most up-to-date, best practice advice in preventive health for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
See: www.racgp.org.au/aboriginalhealth/nationalguide