noticeboard - issue 4

noticeboard - issue 4GUMS

www.gums.org.au

contents04 combined MBBS/PhD programme

06 RACGP Qld - 56th annual clinical update weekend reports

08 wellbeing

10 emergency pharmacy

12 volunteering opportunities abroad

14 #FOAM

president’s updateThe year is flying by. Suddenly it’s mid-year and exams are top of mind. A well deserved break isn’t too far away either.

We have just played host to over 1000 medical students from across Australia for AMSA Convention and AMSA Council. For the first time its history, AMSA Convention was held on the Gold Coast and it was a roaring success. Thank you to all involved and particularly the Convention Committee who made it happen.

Our GUMS Med Revue convenors are hard at work putting together an amazing show for late August. Tickets will be on sale soon and this is one that’s not to be missed!

As the year does fly by, it’s even now time to start thinking about how you can take a bigger role in GUMS for the coming year. We want you to be involved! There are convenor and executive roles available and the organisation cannot run without the strength of our membership taking ownership. Keep an eye out for a call for nominations later this year.

Good luck for exams, study hard and get amongst it

Tommy BrennanGUMS President

www.gums.org.au

There’s no such thing as a free lunch, but there are free books…

Sign up as a medical student reviewer and you keep all textbooks and eBooks you review.

No delivery charge. No cons.

Just receive and review some of our greatest medical titles.

Go to http://www.reviewmedicalbooks.com and sign up today.

www.gums.org.au

combined MBBS/PhD programmemat wongThe school has launched its MBBS/PhD combined degree, joining the likes of Flinders, UQ, ANU and other research-enabled med schools. Ideal for medical students who want a career in medical research or wish to combine research and clinical work through their career.

What is a PhD?

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is Research Higher Degree and the premier research training degree. PhDs are recognised globally and would allow to you work independently as a researcher or as part of a team in a relevant research institution. A PhD is typically required by most universities if you wish to work as an academic.

Structure:

• You research full time and prepare a thesis which must make an ‘original, significant and extensive contribution to knowledge and understanding in the relevant field of study’ as decided by an independent panel of experts in the field.

• Typically this is 3yrs of full-time research under supervision

• It is a vague definition but some people think of it as 2-3 good first author research papers

Funding:

• Course fees are basically waived for Australian Citizens and you have no out-of-pocket expense

• Scholarships are available and typically pay $20 000 – $30 000 per annum, tax-free to support you through the program (more for the more competitive scholarships and usually to a limit of 3yrs)

Entry Requirements:

• A Bachelors Degree

• University based research degree / experience, typically:

• A Bachelors Degree with Honours (Typically Class I or IIA)

› A Masters Degree with Significant Research Component

› Other research degree/experience as approved by the Dean of Research

The combined MBBS/PhD:

This will allow a small number of students per cohort to enrol in a PhD at the end of 2nd year, take a leave of absence from the MBBS for full-time PhD work for 2 yrs, then apply to complete the final year of the PhD part-time whilst returning to the clinical years (3

& 4) of the MBBS. The thesis will be due for submission by semester two of the final year to allow for approval in time for graduation. The total duration of the program will be 6yrs. Students will be supported with clinical tutorials / bedside teaching whilst completing their PhD research.

The program will be available only to students eligible to enrol in a PhD who have also been in strong academic standing throughout years 1 & 2 of the MBBS (if you are just passing, adding a PhD onto your medical degree may not be a great idea). Strong standing is loosely a ‘distinction’ average.

I’m keen! What do I do?

So you have your research experience / degree and want to do the PhD?

1. Do well in your med studies

2. Find a research topic and supervisor/lab that you are happy to work in/with

3. Express your interest to Ray Tedman and Simon Broadly (ASAP)

4. Put together your PhD application and Scholarship applications (these would be due in mid semester 2 of MBBS Y2 and your supervisor will help you with these)

5. You will also be interviewed by the Dean of Medicine to determine eligibility

How do I find a Project / Supervisor?

Any clinical or medical researcher would be fine. With the school moving to Parklands, there are a large number of facilities, institutes and research groups within the health group you could work with:

• School of Medicine Researchers – A small list of projects is here

• School of Medical Science – Where the

Biomeds and ‘GC twosies’ come from, heaps of labs and research ranging from the heart foundation research centre (CVD), neurodegenerative, virology, immunology, cancer and genetic research.

• Griffith Health Institute – All of the health research is linked here

• Research Hub – A database of all research at Griffith, type in a topic or researcher and see their projects and publications in one place: http://research-hub.griffith.edu.au/

• Other schools (Nursing, Pharmacy, Rehab Sciences, Psychology)

• GCUH – Many consultants and clinicians are actively involved in clinical research and there are clinical trials already happening in some GCH departments.

If you have any further questions about applying or getting into the program, email Ray Tedman ([email protected]). If you want to know more about research at Griffith and opportunities at parklands campus, I am happy for you to email me as I have been a part-time researcher there for a few years.

In summary, the option is available if you are a high-achieving student with research experience who sees research as a part of their long-term career.

Mathew WongGUMS Advocacy Officer 2013

RACGP Qld - 56th annual clinical update weekend reportsnicola campbell6amonaSaturday…who knew it existed?Noteven at the conference yet and I’m already learning. After downing a coffee (or three), cruising along the M1, getting lost in the convention centre car park, and then getting lost in the convention centre, I finally arrived bright eyed and bushy tailed at the 56th RACGP clinical update weekend.

The Clinical Update weekend is an annual conference held by the Queensland division of RACGP, and the theme for this year was “General Practice: Snapshots and Snippets”. The opening plenary was a ‘King’s Cross Doctor’s Life’, which showcased some of the work done by a GP working in King’s Cross and some of the challenges of walking in such an area. The talk was followed by a meet the presidents morning tea with the students and presidents of RACGP. There were only a handful of students mingling with the handful ofpresidents,sothemoralofthestory …beakeen bean, it’s great for networking! It was a fantastic way to hear first hand what it’s like to be in the profession, and how to be engaged and involved throughout your career.

Following this, we began our breakout sessions. First up, “Rare flowers and garden gnomes: an update in sexually-transmitted diseases”. An interesting foray into the presentation, prevalence and management of STIs in Queensland, this served to highlight that in my future, I probably don’t need to be thinking of all the rare flowers every time I come up with a list of differentials, but to keep them in the back of my mind in case they ever raise their heads.

Next up, lunch. Learning experience: You can put wedges in a steamer and call them something fancy, but they’re still unhealthy, and they’re still wedges (and still delicious).

Rested and digested, and on we went to our next breakout session: Chronic skin conditions and their management. To my horror, the speaker decided to adopted the Socratic method for this workshop, but to my relief (and the relief of those med students around me) squeaking “I’m a med student, I know nothing!” when someone handed you the microphone got you out of answering challenging questions without too much mental scarring. This was a fantastic presentation on how to pick the most common causes of various types of skin lesions, as well as how to treat them. Whilst I will admit that if I see a skin lesion I am still a little bewildered, I feel as though I can now come up with a pretty solid idea of the most likely causes.

To finish off the first day, a round of “who wants to be a clever GP”, which saw two of our 3rd years – Benignus Logan and Amanda Holford – take on GPs and interns in the hot seat. And so concluded day one, with a full brain I headed up to take stock of what I had learnt, and to catalogue my free stuff from all the stalls.

Day two begin with an array of research presentations, showcasing the work of some brilliant students around Queensland, as well as a panel who shared their insight into a career in research. It was both fascinating and encouraging to hear from researchers in various points in their career, and how they combined their research work with their clinical work. The key difference it seems between the research and clinical aspects of general practice is the pace – with research being a much longer journey than a diagnostic one, but nevertheless rewarding.

After this were the final breakout sessions, the first being illicit and pharmaceutical drugs

page 6 www.gums.org.au

RACGP Qld - 56th annual clinical update weekend reportsnicola campbell

from a policing perspective. While it may have seemed strange to attend a GP conference and hear from a member of the police force, it was truly beneficial to hear from someone experienced in the field of what happens to the drugs we prescribe after patients leave the surgery. The last breakout session of the day, was titled “the dizzy patient”. I was not entirely sure what to expect with this session, but this was hands down one of the most worthwhile sessions I attended over the weekend. The session was presented by an ED doctor, who shared his tips on how to distinguish between central and peripheral causes of dizziness and provided us with an interesting and practical useful skills to determine which of our patients we should send for a CT and which we may be exposing to unnecessary radiation.

The final plenary – how to be skeptical in your practice, and knowing when stopping drugs may be more beneficial than starting drugs. Whilst this may have seemed a negative note to end on, it did serve as a pertinent reminder to always question everything to achieve the greatest benefit for our patients.

Overall, this was a truly fantastic conference. Whether you’re interested in a career in general practice or not, I would highly recommend checking it out – the sessions are short and interesting, you can choose breakout sessions that you’re interested in, and you stand to learn a whole lot of new skills that would apply to a career in almost any branch of medicine. Oh, there’s also lots of free pens!

Nicola CampbellMBBS II

www.gums.org.au

www.gums.org.au

Wellbeing is many things like eating well, exercising, getting enough sleep which is what probably first pops into mind. It can also be having those little treats in life like getting you hair done, that massage or facial. Therefore we have organised some awesome discounts at some local businesses which we have used ourselves and can attest to their quality.

For your hair needs we have Colourcode Hairdressers Southport a fantastic local business which have offered a permanent 10% discount on some already super competitive prices on the presentation of you student card and mention of GUMS Wellbeing. The girls there are absolutely lovely and do a fantastic job!!! There details can be found at: www.facebook.com/ColourcodeMyHair or you can call them on 5679 8818

Another great business that has come on board is Total Massage. Who are offering all students on the mention of GUMS wellbeing a $10 discount on one hour massages. They also have rebates if you have private health

to bring the cost down further. Having had a massage from Brendan I can say it was an amazing stress buster and I have been buying gift vouchers for all my friends ever since. Details can be found at www.http://totalmassage.com.au/ or call 5596 6256

For all your other beauty needs Just Skyn Beauty in Broadbeach Waters is offering 10% off all services to Griffith Med Students with student card-waxing, laser, massages, facials- so no need to miss out just due to your student budget!!! www.justskynbeauty.com or 55268300.

We are always finding new discounts so please remember to check our GUMS Wellbeing page regularly www.facebook.com/groups/431396303584536/. You will find not only discounts but receipes, healthy hints and events on in our local area.

Ash WhiteGUMS Wellbeing Officer 2013

wellbeingash white

www.gums.org.au

EMERGENCY PHARMACYIn the face of impending doom we ask our pharmacists which medications they would stockpileImagine a post apocalyptic world - society as we know it has fallen, hospitals are crumbling under a world over run by anarchy. Our pharmacist-medical students are called upon to access to their local hospital and told they can take a supply of 4 pharmaceutical drugs with them. This is a recordofwhichtheychoseandthereasoningbehindtheirdecisions…..

Melissa SharplessAspirinThe wonder drug. It can be used for pain relief, prevention of heart disease, prevention and treatment of stroke plus it may even have a role in depression. Also, by controlling it’s administration I can hold a position of power over people and give it only to those I deem worthy.

Bupivacaine + Fentanyl epidural

In a post apocalyptic society human numbers will be scarce so it will be important to repopulate. Given I’m a female my child bearing capabilities will be utilized hence the need for an epidural anaesthetic/pain relief. I refuse to suffer in this post apocalyptic future.

Sodium Thiopental

Administered IV for induction of general anaesthesia it also has the added benefit of acting as a truth serum to oppress any challenges.

Botulinum toxin (Botox)

This selection is made primarily for the purposes of weaponing it as given in high doses it is lethal. Plus, it has the added benefit of keeping me looking fabulous. Melissa Sharpless

www.gums.org.au

www.gums.org.auwww.gums.org.au

Mai Dinner

AntibioticsInfections would be rampant! from chest infections to wounds...so broad spectrum oral antibiotics like amoxycilin + clavunic acid (augmentin duo forte) is a good bet...especially since antibiotic resistance is the last of your worries

Pain killersIf only given one option, grab any oxycontin that you can. It’s potent and it can make people drowsy. This hillbilly heroin could also have some trade value on the black market, and since money will no longer be currency in the postapocalyptic world, trade what you can.

AnaestheticIf you only had once choice, i’d go for cocaine. It can be used as a local anaesthetic and will keep you awake in those dire times of the post apocalypse.

BenzodiazepineAny will do, but lorazepam is probably the better option. It’s indicated for anxiety and insomnia, both inevitably will occur in a post apocalyptic world. It can also make people drowsy - good to knock out people going crazy or if you need to perform some make-shift surgery on them.

Tony Blake

Amoxicillin + Clavulanic acidWell if watching the Walking Dead has taught me anything, you are likely to be shot or stabbed by other survivors or bitten by a pesky zombie before the end of your first day. Antibiotics are a must to survive any serious wound.

MorphineBeing bitten and shot hurts!

AspirinInfections also cause fever - aspirin works great as an antipyretic; NSAID also means that it has antiinflammatory activity - lets face it, I’m not a spring chicken anymore, I’m probably going to ‘pull a hammy’ or roll an ankle running from zombies. Aspirin also had the benefit of protection from cardiovascular disease if I reach old age!

ViagraBeing possibly the only male survivor I may have to help repopulate the Earth. That puts a lot of pressure on a guy...

volunteering opportunities abroadchallenges abroad australiaChallenges Abroad Australia have a suite of medical volunteering programs and amazing group challenges that are guaranteed to make your Sumer one you won’t forget!

Who exactly are Challenges Abroad?

They are an organisation specialising in providing international volunteering experiences. Working on behalf of a charitable organization, The FutureSense Foundation, they work on improving education, child welfare and livelihoods for some of the most disadvantaged countries in the world. For more information, have a look at their website www.futuresensefoundation.org. The point is that they are keen on providing university student like YOU the opportunity to contribute to this noble cause.

All about the medical volunteering experience

Here’s the good stuff. What it involves is you working to help provide primary medical services to disadvantaged communities in places such as Cambodia and Nepal. That’s pretty rewarding, don’t you think? There are also opportunities to work in an ED in India and Romania, which is seriously cool because you can see how it varies from Australia and apply your skills there. These opportunities are provided at the end of the year i.e. during our holidays and range from 2-4 weeks with the option to extend your stay. All up, they are fantastic ways of keeping up to date your clinical skills from D&P and not to mention that you get to do it in a clinical setting where you can actually make an impact whilst experiencing a new culture in a unique place.

Want something more?

Not enough? Tough crowd. Well, fortunately for you, there are Group Challenges which take you to a wide range of destinations including Nepal, India, Cambodia, Peru and Tanzania. The volunteer work you do varies from teaching children English in a disadvantaged area to refurbishing schools and leading school based activities. If that was not rewarding enough, consider that on all challenges there is the opportunity to travel and explore various famous landmarks. Think, trekking up Kilimanjaro in Africa or the Annapurna mountain range in Nepal (Himalayan trek), to visiting the Taj Mahal in India. There are challenges to suit everyone whether you love a mix of volunteer work and trekking or you simply love to be surrounded by a completely different culture and primarily devote more time to volunteering. Imagine how amazing this experience is; visit awesome and unique places and do something charitable for the community so that you have a tangible impact.

How to get involved?

Sounds like your thing? For more details check out their website http://www.challengesabroad.com.au/ to find a challenge that best suits you. Should you have any queries, send them to [email protected]. It is really fantastic opportunity and would encourage you to get involved because there is nothing quite like it.

www.gums.org.au

#FOAMlearning on your own termsI am not very good at being a university student. More specifically, I am not the biggest fan of lectures. The reason I don’t like lectures is because I have a short attention span and need to be entertained or engaged in my learning. Lectures are for the most part, the opposite of this, even if you try to call them Large Group Interactive Resource Experience.

Usually, the lecturer is a consultant in a specialised field who is lecturing people who have some/no idea about said field. The knowledge gap means communication is difficult and most topics end up being over simplified or way over your head. The worst part is that because you don’t feel engaged, you have no desire to go home and learn what you didn’t understand/bother listening to.

FOAM, or Free Open Access Medical education, is a great new movement in medical education. Essentially, it is a communal database of medical resources that is at the disposal of the user. The best part is that it embraces many forms of social media such as blogs, twitter, podcasts, online videos and more. You go at your own pace, choosing your own topics to focus on, using the resources that you find useful.

I’m just getting started with FOAM, so here’s what I have been using so far:

Twitter

• I’m following various doctors, journals and speciality colleges

• Twitter allows you to interact with tweets by asking for more, answering questions or even retweeting to pass on resources to your followers

• Because the twitter feed is always updating, it’s a great way to just have a quick look when I’m waiting for a clinic or sitting on the toilet

• Sometimes the tweets go way beyond what a medical student needs to know, and sometimes they are perfect

• You can find people to follow and resources simply by searing the hashtag #FOAM or #FOAMed

• There’s definitely been a handful of times I’ve been pimped on the wards about a topic I saw in a tweet that morning

Blogs

• I am using Feedly to follow the RSS feeds of a few different blogs

• A few I follow in particular are EKG Videos, iTeachEM, Life in the Fast Lane, Pediatric EM Morsels, Radiology Signs

• These blogs are like my new textbooks

• If I particularly like an article, it’s easy to save to GetPocket or Evernote

• If I think an article beyond me, I just skip past it!

Podcasts

• I have a 30 minute drive to and from Logan Hospital each day, and over an hour’s drive to visit my family and friends up in Brisbane

• Podcasts are an easy way to learn without losing any spare leisure time

• It’s also different to learn by listening rather than reading all the time

• There’s no need to try and listen to every single word, in fear that you might miss something. You may hear just a couple of pearls while listening which you will use in the hospital

• Some great podcasts that I’ve been following are EMBasic, Surgery 101 and Pedscases

Now you might see that there are a lot of Emergency Medicine resources that I follow. This is both because I have an interest in EM and because this specialty is at the forefront of FOAM. A lot of the tips you pick up in EM diagnosis will be applicable to medical, surgical, O&G and even psychiatric placements anyway.

The important part of FOAM is to just go at your speed and learn what you want to learn. When you use FOAM you will be amazed at how learning becomes more interesting and less of a chore.

Rhys YoungGUMS Publications Officer

www.gums.org.au

electives & selectives evening

31/7 - 6PMWondering what you should do for your 4th year electives and selectives? Curious about what you

should be doing right now to make it happen? Or just want to hear stories of previous student experiences? Come along to GUMS Electives and Selectives eve-

ning to learn more!

Come join us at the Parklands Campus, G17 lecture theatre 3.

www.gums.org.au

brought to you by

noticeboard - issue 4

Documents