Aust Fam Physician
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Headache remains the most common cause of neurological consultation in clinical practice for which correct diagnosis and treatment are essential. ⋯ By far the most important diagnostic tool for proper headache diagnosis is the taking of a concise and representative history of the headaches. Migraine and TTH exist along a continuum and identification of the patient's position on this continuum has important implications for management.
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Epilepsy is a common disorder and most adult patients will be managed primarily by general practitioners. Despite new developments in the classification and treatment of epilepsy, basic principles of diagnosis and treatment remain valid, such as the importance of an accurate, detailed history and adjusting antiepileptic drug (AED) doses on the basis of seizure control and adverse effects rather than blood test results. ⋯ Older AEDs are still prescribed commonly; newer AEDs have similar efficacy and improved tolerability. Human leukocyte-associated antigen (HLA) testing is recommended before commencing Asian patients on carbamazepine to minimise the risk of Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS). Referral to an epilepsy specialist is recommended if seizures are not controlled after trialling two AEDs. Important issues pertaining to reproductive and bone health are complex and poorly understood.
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There are a number of challenges facing people in the last days of life who wish to receive care in their home environment. This includes timely access to medicines for symptom control. ⋯ A list of core medicines can facilitate timely prescribing and supply of essential medicines for end-of-life symptom management. However, the development of this list should not replace planning and routine involvement of community resources. Multidisciplinary education strategies are needed to ensure that the core medicines list is utilised effectively by doctors, pharmacists and community nurses.
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About 6% of Australian births are to an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander parent and there is a clear disparity in birth outcomes between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and non-Indigenous Australians. Some issues affecting birth outcomes are similar nationally whilst others will be more particular to certain areas. ⋯ A key component of improving pregnancy outcomes is early and ongoing engagement in antenatal care, which is facilitated by the provision of culturally appropriate and evidence based care relevant to the local community. The majority of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples live in urban or inner regional areas and receive healthcare through mainstream services and it is important therefore for all practitioners to be aware of how to optimise care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women.
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Given the health inequity faced by Aboriginal people, it is important that interactions with general practitioners (GPs) are effective and that GPs are aware of issues affecting culturally competent practice. ⋯ Respectful attitudes and good communication and consultation skills need to be combined with knowledge of the historical, cultural, social, medical and system factors that impact on healthcare delivery for Aboriginal patients. Access to cultural mentorship or support is important to promote culturally competent practice.