GPs Combat Alcohol Problem in New Online Module

GPs Combat Alcohol Problem in New Online Module

Alcohol is the most widely used social drug in Australia, heavy alcohol use or binge drinking can cause several serious health problems, GPs are helping patients reduce their alcohol intake using a new series of online educational activities. The learning learning modules are offered on The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) innovative web-based learning platform www.gplearning.com.au and are sponsored by the Heart Foundation.

These learning activities aim to boost general practitioners skills in tackling the growing social and health problems associated with alcohol abuse. said Dr Vasantha Preetham, RACGP President.

The gplearning module is made up of two activities. The first uses multiple choice questions and potential scenarios. These exercises consider the harm of alcohol misuse and the risks to a patient's health by exploring the general practitioner's knowledge and understanding of a patient's life stage and readiness for behaviour change. This learning activity outlines a strategy for reducing alcohol risk to patients health in general practice.

The second activity uses a case study approach to outline the key issues of alcohol misuse, its effects on the body and strategies the general practitioner can use to help a patient reduce or give up drinking alcohol. Information to help identify and/or prescribe suitable therapies is also included. General practitioners and practice nurses learn some practical tips to help patients reduce their alcohol intake

"Binge drinking is particularly a problem among younger people and we know that drinking alcohol during pregnancy may affect your baby," said Dr Preetham. "Another issue addressed by this program is that of the standard drink. A standard drink contains 10g of alcohol. However, the size of a standard drink can vary according to the type of alcohol. The size of a drink served in some hotels, restaurants or even at home may be much bigger than a standard drink.

gplearning allows general practitioners to access education activities 24 hours a day, seven days a week, making it the easiest way for GPs to update their knowledge and skills. These activities form part of the Implementing lifestyle change module.

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners is responsible for maintaining standards for quality clinical practice, education and training, and research in Australian general practice. The RACGP has the largest general practitioner membership of any medical organisation in Australia, with the majority of Australia's general practitioners belonging to their professional college. Over 23,000 general practitioners participate in the RACGP Continuing Professional Development Program. The RACGP National Rural Faculty, representing more than 5000 members, has the largest rural general practitioner membership of any medical organisation in Australia.