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Welcome to the AMA (WA)'s online newsletter. Feedback on Med e-link (WA) is welcomed from members. Send your views to medelink@amawa.com.au.

August 13, 2007

AMA (WA) names its 2007 award winners

The 2007 AMA (WA) Awards and President's Award were announced at a well attended Charity Dinner held at the WA Art Gallery on Saturday night (August 11). This year's winners (pictured left to right with President Prof Geoff Dobb) are Dr Tim Keenan, Mr Jack Bendat and Prof Tony McCartney.

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August 3, 2007

Cannabis laws need urgent overhaul

The AMA (WA) has made a submission to the State Government's review of the Cannabis Control Act, urging compulsory counselling for teenage offenders, a major public education campaign and a review of the financial penalties.

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To see the full submission click here.

Flu activity report

The latest report on influenza activity across Australia may be accessed here.

As of August 8, the WHO Collaborating Centre on Influenza in Melbourne had analysed 137 influenza strains, 123 of which were type A (39 A-H1 and 84 A-H3 strains). In WA, circulating influenza A appears closely matched to the A/Wisconsin/67/2005 (H3N2)-like strain contained in this year's flu vaccine.

If you would like an update on local influenza surveillance, please email Dale.Morgan@health.wa.gov.au and ask to be put on the weekly distribution list.

Prexige withdrawn

The Therapeutic Goods Administration has deregistered Prexige and ordered a recall after it found eight cases in which people suffered severe liver damage. Two people died and two needed liver transplants.

TGA principal medical adviser Rohan Hammett said it was important patients ceased taking the drug immediately. He said they should see their doctor to check if they had any liver damage and to get advice about what else they should do.

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A positive step for Indigenous health

Amid the controversy surrounding the appalling standard of Indigenous health in WA, the State Government has taken a step in the right direction by opening a new withdrawal unit in East Perth to help Aboriginal people dependent on alcohol or drugs.

About $140,000 has been spent remodelling the Next Step treatment area to a four-bed unit (pictured), bringing to 17 the number of inpatient beds provided by the service.

Next Step offers one-on-one support from Aboriginal staff who understand the history, culture and values of their clients.

The latest initiative follows last year's visit to Next Step by former Federal AMA President Dr Mukesh Haikerwal and WA President Prof Geoff Dobb, who met with Aboriginal health officials to discuss ways the centre could improve its services.

IR Update

Concerns over salaried negotiations

An AMA (WA) member survey of more than 250 senior and junior salaried doctors revealed many have serious concerns about the current industrial negotiations with the State Government.

To read the full report in Medicus click here.

Businesses urged to support AMA Charity Golf Day

WA businesses are being encouraged to get behind this year's AMA (WA) Foundation Charity Golf Day, at Royal Perth Golf Club on October 26.

The annual event helps raise funds for the Foundation's very successful school health education program, Dr YES.

Since it started 10 years ago, the program has involved more than 30,000 high school students throughout WA and is currently being adopted by other states.

To become a business or individual sponsor of the event contact Karyl Mackay at the AMA on (08) 9273 3007 or email karyl.mackay@amawa.com.au by no later than Monday, October 8.
You can also help raise funds for the Foundation by making a monetary donation or providing an item or service which can be auctioned during the dinner following the day's competition.

Istanbul Conference

There are still a few places available for the AMA's 2007 Clinical Conference being held in Istanbul and Anzac Cove between September 13 and 22, however they are filling up fast.

For inquiries contact Chris Kane on (08) 9273 3027 or email
chris.kane@amawa.com.au.

Overseas options

If you're planning to head overseas for at least 12 months, but would like to remain a member of the AMA (WA), there are two options - an Overseas Membership or an Absentee Membership. To find out more about your options contact the Membership Office on (08) 9273 3055 or membership@amawa.com.au.

Fellowship rebates

Members taking their Fellowship exams in 2007 - and who have been with the AMA for three or more years - are being offered a 50 per cent rebate on their annual subscription. Contact the Membership Office for more information.

Fuel discounts

Caltex offers AMA members a 4c per litre discount on petrol.
For a $2.95 monthly fee your fuel purchases will be recorded electronically, ensuring you get every cent of GST you're entitled to. With 2,000 locations throughout Australia, you can take advantage of your Caltex Starcard wherever you are. Contact the Membership Office for an application form or get one online by emailing membership@amawa.com.au.

Even more rewards!

The AMA Member Rewards program offers huge savings on a wide variety of products and services.

Members can search the full list of restaurants, cafes, retail and leisure activities featured in the Rewards Program by clicking here or for more information call AMA Member Services on (08) 9273 3055 or email membership@amawa.com.au.