THE latest issue of the Australian Journal of General Practice highlights critical updates for GPs, including a sharp rise in smoking cessation consultations, opioid prescribing safety, and managing neurological conditions.
A study led by Australian National University’s Dr Daniel Bogale Odo found a 16-fold increase in GP visits for help quitting smoking or vaping between July 2021 and December 2023, with 188,904 Medicare-funded sessions delivered.
“The number of nicotine and smoking cessation counselling services by GPs funded by Medicare skyrocketed while funding was available,” Dr Odo said.
Despite this success, funding ceased at the end of 2023. “The cessation of these services might have had a regressive impact on people who want to quit,” he said. RACGP President Dr Michael Wright said: “GPs have a critical role to play… this study shows the diff erence embedding smoking and vaping cessation in routine care makes.”
Also featured is guidance on safe opioid prescribing. Dr Hester Wilson said: “Opioids are essential medicines… but their role in chronic pain is limited and can cause harms.” She emphasised patient-centred care and the availability of free naloxone to reverse overdoses.
