Education Videos & Podcasts List
Understanding Opioid Use Disorder: A complex, chronic condition extending beyond physical dependence
General Practitioners, Nurses, Allied Health Professionals and other interested health professionals are invited to review this online Alcohol and Other Drugs ECHO meeting, providing the opportunity to engage with the evolving understanding of opioid use disorder (OUD) as a complex, chronic condition that extends beyond physical dependence.
Viewers will explore the role of opioid agonist therapy, combining current evidence on its long-term effectiveness and limitations across diverse populations.
The recording analyses the interplay of neurobiological, psychological, and sociocultural factors that shape individual recovery journeys and influence treatment outcomes, equipping clinicians with deeper insights to inform compassionate, evidence-based care.
Learning outcomes:
- Evaluate the evolving conceptualisation of opioid use disorder as a chronic condition beyond physical dependence.
- Consider on the long-term impacts and limitations of opioid agonist therapy across diverse patient populations.
- Analyse the interplay of neurobiological, psychological, and sociocultural factors shaping recovery trajectories and treatment responsiveness
Speakers:
Dr Thomas Lu, General Practitioner | Addiction Medicine Specialist
Dr Thomas Lu is a Conjoint Lecturer at UNSW, an Addiction Medicine Specialist, and a General Practitioner. He holds degrees from the University of Adelaide and UNSW, and provides holistic care across general practice, chronic disease, mental health, pain, geriatrics, and addiction. He has published research, presented internationally, and served as a medical expert for the NSW senate inquiry into medicinal cannabis. Outside work, Thomas volunteers in Papua New Guinea with YWAM Medical Ships, is active in his church, and enjoys fitness and sports. He consults in English and Mandarin.
Facilitator: Dr Esther Han, GP and D&A Specialist
Dr Esther Han is a Drug and Alcohol Specialist with Northern Sydney Local Health District (NSLHD). She is a passionate and empathic doctor from a general practice background now working mainly in public hospital drug and alcohol settings. Dr Han enjoys teaching medical students, registrars & GPs and is involved in education with RACGP, RACP and the Sydney North Health Network. She is currently involved in research looking at improving shared care of patients with drug & alcohol issues. Target Audience: GPs, Nurses, Allied Health Professionals and other interested Health Professionals
Dual Diagnosis: Alcohol and other Drugs and Mental Illness
Figures estimate that up to 80% of patients with drug and alcohol issues also have an underlying mental illness – however substance use can mimic a lot of mental illnesses! It can be challenging to diagnose and then provide appropriate treatment. Please join Dr Anthony Sams (Addiction Psychiatrist) who works in both public and private sectors for a 20-minute presentation and then 20 minutes for case discussion, and Q&A.
Target Audience: GPs, Nurses, Pharmacists, Allied Health Professionals and NSLHD Staff in the Sydney North Primary Health Network region.
Learning outcomes:
- Differentiate between substance induced psychiatric sx vs Axis 1 mental health conditions
- Understand challenges of managing mental health symptoms in patients using alcohol or other drugs
- Appreciate the prevalence of dual diagnosis (both mental illness plus a substance use disorder
Speakers:
- Facilitator – Dr Esther Han, NSLHD Drug and Alcohol Specialist
- Presenter – Dr Anthony Sams, NSLHD, Senior Staff Specialist Psychiatrist
Alcohol and Other Drugs – Improving Care Through Family Drug Support
This session run by Family Drug Support will provide insight to the challenges faced by families supporting a drug dependent person, in our experience families often confide in at least one health provider due to the confidentiality component. Understanding the context will assist health providers in tailoring their care to their patient and therefore producing better patient outcomes.
Target Audience:
GPs, Nurses, Pharmacists, Allied Health Professionals and NSLHD Staff in the Sydney North Primary Health Network region.
Speakers:
Dr Esther Han, GP and NSLHD Addiction Specialist Lucinda Slevin | Family Support Worker Lucinda Slevin is a dedicated family support worker at Family Drug Support, an organisation committed to assisting families navigating the challenges of supporting a loved one with drug dependency. With a background in early childhood education, Lucinda brings a compassionate and informed perspective to her work. She holds an honours degree in philosophy and political economy from the University of Sydney, equipping her with a deep understanding of societal structures and their influence on families affected by substance use.
HIV Prevention: Prep Prescribing in General Practice
HIV prevention through PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) prescribing is an important preventative health measure. .PrEP is part of primary care. This webinar covers identifying at-risk individuals for contracting HIV, and how to discuss PrEP prescribing and follow up, including when to refer to specialist care (eg sexual health clinic).
Rationale: PrEP reduces the risk of contracting HIV from sex by about 99% and by about 74% from injecting drug use https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/risk/prep/index.html
TARGET AUDIENCE: GPs, Nurses, Allied Health Professionals, Pharmacists, Specialists and Staff working in the Northern Sydney PHN Region.
Learning outcomes:
- Analyse the role of STI screening guideline that include HIV and syphilis screening in prescribing PrEP
- Examine the factors that influence the timing of HIV testing, including risk behaviours, demographic factors, and clinical indicators when prescribing PrEP
- Identify the characteristics of patient groups at high risk for HIV. Consider epidemiological data, behavioural factors, and social determinants of health.
- Analyse the challenges and opportunities of prescribing PrEP in a general practice setting. Consider patient education, adherence, and follow-up care.
Speakers:
Dr Nicole Gouda – GP
Dr Catriona Ooi – Sexual Health Specialist
Resources:
Decision making in PrEP - https://ashm.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Resource_ASHM_PrEP_Tool_National_FINAL-October-2021.pdf
PrEP guidelines - https://prepguidelines.com.au/
University of Liverpool HIV drug interactions - https://www.hiv-druginteractions.org/
Standard Asymptomatic STI guidelines - https://sti.guidelines.org.au/standard-asymptomatic-checkup/
Picking the anabolic steroid user in your waiting room: Why it is important to manage and reduce harm
Performance and Image Enhancing Drugs (PIEDs) have gained prominence in recent years, impacting both athletes and the general population. These substances, which include anabolic steroids, growth hormone, and stimulants, promise enhanced physical performance and appearance. However, their use raises significant concerns.
PIEDs’ prevalence spans diverse demographics, from competitive athletes to recreational gym-goers. Societal implications range from distorted body ideals to potential legal consequences. Health risks associated with PIEDs include cardiovascular complications, liver damage, and psychological effects.
This webinar will provide healthcare professionals with strategies that can assist in engaging in harm minimisation conversations with patients, considering cultural nuances and individual needs. Resources such as the PIEDs Guide and Quick Reference Guide can provide advice to guide patients effectively and allow for collaboration with fellow professionals, establishing clear professional boundaries ensuring ethical, legal, and patient-centered decision-making.
Learning outcomes:
- Examine the prevalence and impact of Performance and Image Enhancing Drugs (PIEDs) use including spread, societal implications, and potential health risks
- Initiate harm minimisation conversations with patients, creating effective communication strategies, considering cultural implications and individual needs
- Utilise the PIEDs Guide and Quick Reference Guide when advising patients and collaborating with other healthcare professionals
- Establish professional boundaries and safety measures when making informed treatment decisions considering ethical, legal, and patient-centered perspectives
Speakers:
Dr Beng Eu | GP
Dr Kevin Lee | Endocrinologist
Dr Esther Han | Addiction Specialist
Resources:
SNHN Steroid Harm Minimisation Guide - Click here
Dr Beng Eu and Dr Kevin Lee Presentation - Performance and Image Enhancing Drugs Presentation - Click here
Improving GP practice responses for people with substance misuse and related problems
This session will prepare general practice staff, from front desk personnel to GPs, to recognise and manage patients affected by substances while prioritising safety and harm reduction principles. Participants will learn clinical presentations of substance use and withdrawal, developing protocols that balance patient care with staff safety. The session focuses on reducing stigma and implementing practical strategies to help all staff respond effectively and confidently when working with patients experiencing substance intoxication or withdrawal.
Learning outcomes:
- Describe the clinical features of psychoactive substances by comparing and contrasting their acute effects, intoxication symptoms, and withdrawal presentations
- Differentiate between various patterns of substance use, including the development of dependence, tolerance and withdrawal, with an emphasis on identifying clinical features
- Demonstrate the ability to assess and implement appropriate management protocols for patients presenting with substance intoxication or withdrawal in clinical settings
Speakers:
- Dr Esther Han – GP/Addiction Specialist NSLHD
- Dr Matthew Stevens – Matt is a Senior Research Fellow at The University of Adelaide. Matt’s work has focused on prevention and early intervention for behavioural and substance-related addictive disorders.
- Dr. Chris Holmwood, FRACP | Addiction Medicine Specialist, Director of Training for the SA/NT RACGP Training Program. His main career interests is helping non-addiction specialist services help their patients with substance use problems.
Resources:
Deprescribing Psychotropics
The overuse of antidepressants and psychiatric medications is a growing concern for healthcare and regulatory bodies, including the NDIS Commission and the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care. Both the Disability and Aged Care Royal Commissions have called for efforts to reduce this overuse.
Stopping these medications safely has been neglected in psychiatric teaching, leading to significant harm from severe and prolonged withdrawal effects. The Maudsley Deprescribing Guidelines aim to address this gap.
Withdrawal effects are more common and severe than previously recognized, with some people experiencing debilitating protracted withdrawal syndromes. These effects can be mistaken for a relapse or new condition, highlighting the need for better recognition and distinction.
Advances in the science of stopping antidepressants have led to updated UK guidelines on gradual, hyperbolic tapering.
Target Audience: GPs, Nurses, Allied Health Professionals, Pharmacists, any prescribers or clinicians that have regular contact with people using psychotropic medications
Learning outcomes:
- Identify when, why and in whom to stop antidepressants and other psychiatric drugs
- Describe the risks of stopping these medications too quickly
- Distinguish between withdrawal effects from these drugs and relapse of an underlying condition
- Apply the latest principles in safe tapering to stopping these drugs classes, adjusted to the individual patient
Speakers:
Dr. Mark Horowitz MBBS PhD is a Clinical Research Fellow in Psychiatry with the NHS in England and a Visiting Lecturer in Psychopharmacology at King’s College London. He holds a PhD in the neurobiology of depression and antidepressant action.
Dr. Horowitz is the lead author of the Maudsley Deprescribing Guidelines and co-authored the Royal College of Psychiatrists’ guidance on ‘Stopping Antidepressants’. His work has informed NICE guidelines on safe tapering of psychiatric medications. He has published papers in top journals and is an Associate Editor of Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology. His personal experience with psychiatric medication withdrawal has greatly influenced his work.
Resources:
Dr Mark Horowitz Presentation - Deprescribing Psychotropics
RACGP Link to guidelines: Maudlsey Deprescribing Guidelines
The effect of Drug and Alcohol use on young people and the developing brain
GPs in our region are seeing a growing number of young people affected by substance misuse.
Learn about the impacts of substances on the adolescent brain, strategies to engage young people in a conversation about substance use, harm reduction strategies, and local referral pathways.
Learning outcomes:
- Analyse the impacts of substance use on the developing adolescent brain.
- Develop and implement effective strategies to engage young people in meaningful conversations about substance use.
- Evaluate and apply harm reduction strategies for substance use.
- Utilise knowledge of local referral pathways to support young people with substance use issues.
Speakers:
Dr. David Gordon | is a psychiatrist specialising in child and adolescent psychiatry, as well as addiction psychiatry. Dr. Gordon holds a BSc, MBBS (Hons), MPsychiatry, and is a Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (FRANZCP). He works in both public and private practice, including at the Northern Beaches Hospital and MindLife Clinic.
Dr Esther Han | GP/Addiction Specialist NSLHD Drug & Alcohol Service /Clinical Lecturer for the University of Sydney in the Discipline of Addiction Medicine, Northern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health.
Reducing alcohol-related harm in general practice
General practice consultations provide an opportunity to deliver brief interventions to patients to reduce weekly alcohol consumption.
Attendees will learn the scope of strategies that can be used in general practice, tools that can be used by GPs to support these strategies, and how to incorporate brief interventions into daily practice. We will also hear from the SDECC and Odyssey House to better understand local referral pathways.
You will be introduced to the REACH (Reducing Alcohol-Related Harm in General Practice) project and tools, developed by Monash University. The REACH project supports GPs, nurses and other healthcare professionals to talk to their patients about alcohol use. The REACH team has developed a package of practical, evidence-based and informative resources with input from GPs, nurses and community members.
Learning outcomes:
- Prepare brief intervention strategies to assess alcohol intake and reduce weekly consumption
- Incorporate brief interventions into daily practice
- Utilise course reference material to identify local referral pathways and services
Speakers:
A/Prof Elizabeth Sturgiss - GP, Associate Professor of Research in the School of Primary and Allied Health Care at Monash University and Visiting Fellow at the Australian National University whose research focuses on chronic and complex diseases among priority populations
Dr Hester Wilson - GP, a registered Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and a Fellow of the Chapter of Addiction Medicine, with a Masters in Mental Health. She is working towards completion of her PhD in collaborative care. Dr Wilson has participated in numerous expert committees for both state and federal governments, and is Chair of the RACGP’s Specific Interest Addiction Medicine Network
Dr Esther Han – GP in the northern beaches of Sydney, a Drug & Alcohol Specialist at Royal North Shore Hospital and a Clinical Lecturer in the Discipline of Addiction Medicine, Northern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health University of Sydney.
SDECC and Odyssey House Presenters
Anabolic Steroids The appeal, risks and treatment decisions
Many people that use, or are considering use of anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) don’t often reveal that fact to their GP, but it’s vital they feel comfortable to do so. This webinar will address primary and secondary motivations for anabolic steroid use, and how a GP can respond to engage these patients safely.
Speakers explore models by which anabolic steroids users can engage with our health system and guides on how to provide tailored treatment and/or harm reduction advice to this patient group.
Content builds on the locally developed GP Guide to harm minimisation for patients using non-prescribed anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) and other performance and image enhancing drugs (PIEDs) that is internationally regarded as a trusted source of information on this topic.
Learning outcomes:
- Define the appeal of anabolic steroid use
- Design treatment plans to mitigate the effect of anabolic steroid use on our health system and patients, including use from an early age with potential lifelong comorbidity management.
- Examine effective approaches to patient care and redefining life after steroids
- Develop trust with the patient and use a harm minimisation approach to manage Post Cycle Therapy risks and benefits
Speakers:
Dr James Ibrahim – General Practitioner
James is a GP and Practice Owner of the Terry Hills Medical Centre. He is also the founder and inaugural chair of the Social Prescribing Specific Interest Group in the RACGP.
Current positions include:
-GP Clinical Lead in Alcohol and Other Drugs, SNPHN
-Clinical Advisory Council, SNPHN
-GP advisor to the Victorian DOH Social Prescribing Working Group
Dr Ingrid Havnes – Psychiatrist, MD, PHD
Our special guest Dr Ingrid Havnes is joining us all the way from Norway. Ingrid is a specialist in psychiatry and general practice, a researcher and senior consultant at Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital. She brings international expertise from a country where people who use anabolic-androgenic steroids have rights to treatment. Ingrid has extensive experience on educating people who use anabolic-androgenic steroids, their next of kin, and health professionals about desired/undesired effects, and treatment options.
ADHD: Emotional Regulation in the Early Years and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Prevention
This webinar aims to empower GPs to confidently address family concerns that a child may have ADHD (Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder).
Viewers will also be provided with an update on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) prevention in our region, as well as ideas around starting the conversation with women who drinking before/during pregnancy.
Learning outcomes:
- Integrate Blue Book ‘Learn the Signs. Act Early’ checks for all 0-4yo’s patients in general practice using a systematic approach
- Assess challenges with emotion and behaviour regulation in the early years, including family concern about possible attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
- Determine ‘red flags’ and refer early for improved childhood outcomes
- Recognise the variety of conditions that fall under Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
- Identify therapeutic engagement strategies for women who are drinking alcohol in the peripartum period
Speakers:
- Dr Yvette Vella | NSLHD Staff Specialist Developmental Paediatrician
- Dr Esther Han | NSLHD Drug & Alcohol Staff Specialist & GP
- Vicki Laing | NSLHD Child and Family Health: General Practice-Community Liaison Nurse
- Megan Leckie | Community Engagement Officer, Early Childhood Program
- Diane Russell | CNS 2 NSLHD Substance Use in Pregnancy and Parenting Service
Nicotine Vaping for Smoking Cessation and Upcoming Scheduling Changes
This webinar will update GPs on the role of vaping nicotine to help smokers quit and outline scheduling changes to nicotine coming into effect from 1 October 2021. Smoking is the leading preventable cause of death and illness in Australia and accounts for 21,000 premature deaths. 14.7% of our adult population smoke. While remaining a controversial treatment for smoking harm reduction in Australia, nicotine vaping (nicotine e-cigarettes) has been approved as second-line treatment by the RACGP and RANZCP for smoking cessation. Research suggests that it is more effective than combination nicotine replacement therapy. From October 2021, Australians will be able to access nicotine liquid with a legal non-PBS prescription from Australian pharmacies and through importation under the TGA Personal Importation scheme.
Learning outcomes:
- Describe the principles of tobacco harm reduction using nicotine containing e-cigarettes.
- Explain the RACGP guidelines for use of nicotine containing e-cigarettes and the upcoming scheduling changes.
- Explain the clinical elements of a prescription for nicotine containing e-cigarettes.
- Counsel patients on the use of nicotine containing e-cigarettes.
Speakers:
Dr Colin Mendelsohn, GP. With a special interest in smoking cessation, Colin practised as a GP in Sydney for 27 years. He now works exclusively in tobacco treatment, helping smokers to quit. Colin is a member of the committee that develops the RACGP national smoking cessation guidelines and is the Founding Chairman of the Australian Tobacco Harm Reduction association. He is actively involved in research, writing, and teaching about smoking cessation, tobacco harm reduction and tobacco control.
Resources: