Dr Trevor Burchall has been a Rural Generalist (RG) for over 30 years, including ten years spent purely as an ED Director in his home city of Mt Gambier, SA. He is currently working as rural ED and GP locum, part time FIFO for RFDS in Mt Isa, a deputy CMO SA Ambulance Service and Medical Educator for ACRRM. Along with all of his work commitments, Trevor also keeps busy with his three (adult) children, two grandchildren, and three stepchildren aged 9,7 and 4.
What challenges have you faced in addressing drug and alcohol addiction in your community? 

I have always worked in a rural setting and the main problem has always been accessing drug and alcohol allied health resources to assist with the management of these patients. I'm sure that this is the same in most rural and remote communities across Australia.

What prompted you to undertake the ACRRM Drug and Alcohol Addiction Education (DAAE) Program? How will you use these learnings and apply it to your local community? 

I thought that if I could learn more about this field then it would be of benefit to myself and, of course, to the patients and communities that I am involved with especially with the lack of resources, as mentioned above.  

As a Medical Educator for ACRRM’s Independent Pathway why do you think the DAAE program is important for FACRRMs and rural doctors in training?

Drug and alcohol addiction makes up a significant part of any GP’s workload but the impact of it on family, friends and community is huge, especially in smaller rural communities. I think it's imperative that we, as FACRRM's and rural doctors in training, all strive to be as informed as we can on these topics so that we can provide maximal care and assistance to all involved. It also appears to be a growing issue in our communities which is another reason to complete the DAAE program.

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

My main takeaway would be that whilst it is a huge issue, there are some major points that we need to know including assessment tools and management tips- all of which are covered in the course. The DAAE course provides the information that one needs to know in an easy to follow and clinically based format. Also, there are some great links to other resources which look to be very informative and useful.

What would you say to anyone thinking of enrolling in the program? 

Take the time and do it and you won't regret it. Even if it's not a particular area of interest for you still do it as it is essential knowledge.

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For more information and to enrol into the ACRRM Drug and Alcohol Addiction (DAAE) Program, click here.

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