Infant gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD): Australian GP attitudes and practices.

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the attitudes and practices of Australian general practitioners (GPs) regarding infant gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) diagnosis and management.

Methods: A national cross-sectional survey, involving a random sample of currently practising Australian GPs (n = 2319) was undertaken between July and September 2011. GPs attitudes and management of infant GORD were surveyed via an online and paper-based 41-item questionnaire.

Online continuing medical education (CME) for GPs: does it work? A systematic review.

Background: Numerous studies have assessed the effectiveness of online continuing medical education (CME) designed to improve healthcare professionals' care of patients. The effects of online educational interventions targeted at general practitioners (GP), however, have not been systematically reviewed.

Methods: A computer search was conducted through seven databases for studies assessing changes in GPs' knowledge and practice, or patient outcomes following an online educational intervention.

The male reproductive system - An overview of common problems.

Background: Many male reproductive system problems could be perceived as being embarrassing, which may be one of the reasons that they are often not identified in general practice.

Objective: This article provides an overview of some common problems affecting the male reproductive system, and outlines current treatment options.

Discussion: Erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, loss of libido, testicular cancer and prostate disease may cause embarrassment to the patient and, occasionally, the general practitioner.

GP management of erectile dysfunction: the impact of clinical audit and guidelines.

Background: This study evaluated a clinical audit and evidence based practice guide designed to improve general practitioners' assessment and management of erectile dysfunction.

Method: A self selected sample of 25 GPs audited their assessment and management of 1354 patients at risk of, or being treated for, erectile dysfunction.

Results: General practitioners reported several significant improvements across the audit period: GP initiated discussions about erectile dysfunction with 'at risk' patients nearly doubled.

GPs as medical educators--an Australian train-the-trainer program.

Background: General practitioners undertake ongoing education in many areas. A train-the-trainer (TTT) approach may be an option for facilitation of continuing professional development (CPD) activities.

Methods: With the aim of training GPs to facilitate peer CPD activities, Monash University's Department of General Practice undertook a national TTT program on men's sexual and reproductive health.

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease--impact of guidelines on GP management.

Background: This program examined the impact of clinical guidelines and a 3 year self audit process on general practitioners' diagnosis and management of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease.

Methods: Nine hundred and sixty-six Australian GPs participated in a retrospective five step clinical audit reporting on data for 28,622 patients.

Results: General practitioners demonstrated significant improvements in their diagnosis and management of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease across the audit period, including: a significant 3% decrease in use of endoscopy; improved GP assessment and identification fo risk factors and exacerbants; significant increase in GP recommendations for patient weight loss and dietary changes (7 and 10% respectively); a significant 4% reduction in patient use of medications that may exacerbate reflux symptoms.