The Australian journal of rural health
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Aust J Rural Health · Jun 2005
Perspectives on clinic attendance, medication and foot-care among people with diabetes in the Torres Strait Islands and Northern Peninsula Area.
To achieve a better understanding of the perspectives and needs of Indigenous people with diabetes in the Torres Strait and to identify ways to promote successful self-management of diabetes. ⋯ Participants who expressed satisfaction with clinical-initiated sessions when called highlighted positive relationships and encouraging feedback from doctors. People's attitudes and practices related to oral and injectable treatments varied widely, possibly linked to levels of understanding. Widespread knowledge of foot-care and fear of amputation in an environment highly conducive to foot sores and infection was evident. Generally, participants wanted more education and personal support in all areas of diabetes care. Service providers in health and other sectors need to place more emphasis on supporting self-management of diabetes within the family and community environment.
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Aust J Rural Health · Jun 2005
The role of psychological well-being in retaining rural general practitioners.
Retention of rural GPs is an increasing area of concern and is receiving considerable attention from the government, medical authorities and the media. This study aimed to examine the potential for psychological interventions to assist in the retention of rural GPs through targeting their psychological well-being. ⋯ Results indicated that psychological interventions (such as cognitive behavioural training), assistance with stress reduction and coping mechanisms (such as more interaction with colleagues) may be of benefit to GPs who are considering leaving rural practice. Such training may increase the number of GPs who ultimately stay in rural practice.
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Aust J Rural Health · Jun 2005
A strategy to increase the palliative care capacity of rural primary health care providers.
To pilot and evaluate an intervention aimed at increasing the palliative care capacity of primary health care providers in rural and remote communities. ⋯ This intervention is relatively inexpensive, has reasonable reach and is effective as measured by educational and clinical outcomes.