When did you decide to become a rural GP, and why? 

I have been a member of ACRRM since I started medical school. I like the concept of developing a diverse skillset that maximises the amount you can do for your patients in austere environments. I aspire towards aid and disaster relief. The ACRRM Independent Pathway gives me the opportunity to shape my own learning to work towards being the best clinician I can be.  

Where are you currently working?  

Calvary Hospital Canberra Emergency Department. 

Why do you think drug and alcohol addiction education is important? How are the needs different in rural communities?

At the moment, a lot of people are doing it tough due to economic hardship and social isolation, moreso than usual. When people aren't coping, they may be reluctant to seek help and use alcohol and drugs to deal with their problems, which has a cascading negative effect on their lives in some cases, without addressing the root problem. This situation is worse in rural communities where the culture is based on coping without complaint, where there are generally less services available. There is also a social stigma around mental health and seeking help which is another barrier to getting the support and assistance they need. As clinicians we need to know how to deal with addiction and the associated issues so we can enable patients to resolve their issues in a constructive manner.  

What takeaways have you had following completion of the ACRRM DAAE Program?

I was very surprised at waiting lists and lack of resource availability for drug and alcohol presentations in a well-resourced metropolitan centre such as Canberra, which means the onus goes back to GPs who are already overloaded. It is important that all clinicians have awareness and skills to deal with addiction and underlying mental health issues to do the best they can by their patients. It is a common presentation that is increasing in frequency that needs to be managed in a sensitive and professional manner.  

Has the ACRRM DAAE workshop helped build your confidence and/or reinforced your skill in recognising the harms associated with drug and alcohol use and being able to respond appropriately?

All training defines its worth in the workplace. It has shown me that it is an area that is complex and diverse that I actively need to remain abreast of, often with intrinsic linkage to social determinants and mental health. I am constantly dealing with drug and alcohol issues in my workplace, this training has honed those skills, provided me new tools and reminded me of the basics.