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Welcome to the AMA (WA)'s online newsletter.

July 27, 2007

Children may need second flu jab

The AMA (WA) has issued a reminder to parents who recently had their infants vaccinated against influenza that they may now require a second dose.

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July 26, 2007

Councils urged to ban smoking in outdoor cafes

The AMA (WA) applauds the City of Fremantle's decision to ban smoking in alfresco dining areas - and says other councils should now follow their lead.

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July 25, 2007

President's address to National Press Club

Federal AMA President Dr Rosanna Capolingua has called on State and Federal Governments to commit to a massive increase in funding for the nation's struggling public hospitals.

Addressing the National Press Club in Canberra this week, Dr Capolingua outlined a wide range of health issues that needed to be addressed and said that patient care was the AMA's primary driver.

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July 23, 2007

Severe allergies: Teachers must be trained

The AMA (WA) says all WA teachers and childcare workers should undergo compulsory first aid training in handling severe allergic reactions.

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July 23, 2007

Easyclaim: Not so easy for doctors

Medicare's much vaunted Easyclaim system may not be the panacea that doctors and patients were expecting. In fact, warns Federal AMA President Dr Rosanna Capolingua, the new online claims system due to be launched in a few months, will be anything but easy.

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Feature

How to be carbon neutral

Doctors for the Environment, Australia (DEA) is encouraging all doctors and medical professionals to take steps to make their households and businesses carbon neutral. Chair Dr Bill Castleden says there are many simple steps that everyone can take to reduce their carbon footprint.

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Industrial Update

Minimum wage increase

Practices that operate under the Federal WorkChoices Legislation (i.e. corporations) should be advised that the Australian Fair Pay Commission has announced an increase in the Minimum Wage.

All pay scales up to $700 per week will increase by $10.26 per week while all pay scales paying $700 a week and above will increase by $5.30 per week.

Pay increases will apply from the first pay date on or after October 1, 2007. Members with any questions on this increase, or whether WorkChoices applies to their practice, can contact the association on (08) 9273 3000.

Workplace Relations Fact Sheet

From July 20, the Federal Government now requires all WorkChoices employers (constitutional corporations) to provide every new employee with a 'Fact Sheet' within 7 days of them starting work.

For existing employees, the fact sheet must be provided to the employee by October 20, 2007.

The Fact Sheet sets out some of the key legislative protections relating to workplace relations and workplace agreements, and provides details about the Workplace Ombudsman and the Workplace Authority. To view the Fact Sheet click here.

For further inquiries contact Charlene Suresh at the AMA (WA) on (08) 9273 3000.

AMA (WA) Clinical Conference - Istanbul and Anzac Cove

Places are filling up fast for the AMA's 2007 Clinical Conference being held in Istanbul and Anzac Cove between September 13 and 22.

For more information click here or contact Chris Kane on (08) 9273 3027 or email chris.kane@amawa.com.au.

Youth Friendly Doctor training

The Young People's Sexual Health module, which attracts 30 Category 1 RACGP QA/CPD points, will be held on Tuesday August 14, 2007. Book now as there are a limited number of places available.

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DIT Committee meeting

The next Doctors in Training Committee meeting is being held at the AMA's headquarters in Nedlands on Monday, August 13.

The committee examines and responds to issues affecting Doctors in Training, such as industrial, educational, workforce and professional issues.

It also provides input into Federal DIT issues through its participation in the Federal AMA's Council of Doctors in Training and, on the lighter side, organises a number of fun social events. All DITs are welcome to come along and have their say.

If you are interested in knowing more about the DIT Committee contact the AMA on (08) 9273 3000 or click here.

2007 Events Calendar

You can check the date and location of all upcoming AMA (WA) events on the AMA (WA) website.

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Even more rewards!

The AMA (WA)'s monthly journal Medicus is giving one lucky reader the chance to win the latest 2GB MP3 Player, thanks to SonyCentral.

Simply send us your views about any health related issue for our Soapbox segment before August 15 to be in the running.

Articles can be about anything - from a worthwhile suggestion to improve the health system or an issue that's driving you nuts.

Keep your contribution to a maximum of 250 words and send it to medicus@amawa.com.au or fax (08) 9273 3073 (emails preferred).

Winners also have the choice of a twin pack of Vasse Felix 2004 Chardonnay and 2003 Cabernet Merlot, or a $100 AMA Gift voucher, which can be used for any AMA Medical Products, training or locum services.

Even more rewards!

The AMA Member Rewards program has been available to members since the start of 2007 and offers many discounts at restaurants and for accommodation in Perth and throughout Australia.

One of the most exciting new aspects about the Rewards program is the ability to shop online for perfume, cosmetics, sunglasses as well as clothing and lingerie at extremely reduced prices.

To check out all of the huge discounts available to AMA members click here or for more information call AMA Member Services on (08) 9273 3055 or email membership@amawa.com.au.