News

On a mission to help Launceston’s vulnerable

How one nurse practitioner was moved to support vulnerable Tasmanians and now inspires other health professionals in her clinic Inspiration for meaningful action can strike at the most unexpected times.   For Launceston-based nurse practitioner Jane Laidlaw, it happened during a routine drive to an early gym class in 2018. Once parked, she saw someone living…

Recruiting and retaining GPs through community 

How two general practices recruit and retain new GPs by creating a sense of belonging  In the rural and remote areas of north and north-west Tasmania, attracting and retaining GPs has long been a challenge.   Many doctors who start their careers in these regions face significant barriers to staying long term – including professional isolation,…

Data in profile: Dementia in Tasmania

Dementia is a condition that affects the ability to perform daily tasks, significantly impacting both people living with dementia and their loved ones.   As Tasmania’s population ages, dementia is becoming a pressing public health issue. By 2042, more than 25% of the Tasmanian population will be aged 65 and over.   But when does forgetfulness turn…

Improving support at the end of life  

How a Tasmanian program is increasing access to palliative care medicines   When you are caring for someone near the end of their life, it can be hard to find the medicines they need outside a hospital or specialist care environment.  But a new project that encourages community pharmacies to stock a core range of palliative…

Growing their own knowledge to serve their communities

How two scholarship recipients are improving healthcare outcomes in their local communities  Michael Walls and Gayle Rusher, recipients of Primary Health Tasmania’s Grow Your Own scholarships, are living examples that it’s never too late to expand your skillset and give back to your community.   Both recipients, now in their sixties, are using their scholarships to…

Addressing an age-old dilemma

How a north-west GP is improving the health of Tasmanians in aged care homes The Aged Care Royal Commission found people receiving aged care, particularly those living in aged care homes, do not consistently receive the health care they need.  “Primary healthcare practitioners are either not visiting people receiving aged care at their residences, or…