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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.

Election watch

November 27, 2007

Time for both Labor Governments to "fix health"

AMA (WA) says Federal Labor's election victory should put an end to the blame game between the State and Commonwealth and enable both governments to set about solving the major problems ravaging WA's public hospitals.

"Kevin Rudd and Health Minister Jim McGinty should get together as soon as possible and decide how they can provide more hospital beds and reduce waiting times for elective surgery," said Association President Prof Geoff Dobb.

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November 21, 2007

The power of one

The Bulletin magazine has named Federal AMA President, Dr Rosanna Capolingua, as Australia's most powerful person in the field of health.

"The Perth GP is not afraid of a stoush and now, with the backing of thousands of doctors across Australia, she's an even more formidable force," said the magazine.

Immediate past president, Dr Mukesh Haikerwal, one of the judges used by the magazine in selecting the nation's 100 most powerful people, said Dr Capolingua's ability to "move the discussion and debate and change the agenda" meant she had power to influence the outcome.

Health Department chief, Dr Neale Fong, was named sixth in a list of 10 people identified by The Bulletin as health's most powerful.

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Earlier this year the AMA was named as the nation's most influential lobby group by Canberra politicians.

DIT hospital survey: Your chance to see the light!

Junior doctors will soon be receiving forms for the 2007 Hospital Ratings Survey.

The survey is conducted by the AMA (WA) Doctors in Training Committee and provides an opportunity for junior doctors to voice any concerns they have about the way public hospitals handle many of the issues impacting on their lives.

It will assist the AMA in facilitating changes that will ultimately improve working conditions for young doctors.

As an incentive, the AMA will give those who complete the survey a LED light torch keyring (left).

Obituary

Dr Peter Gibson

AMA life member, Dr Peter Gibson, one of the world's pioneer cardiac surgeons, died on August 29, 2007, just six weeks before his 84th birthday.

Peter made an enormous contribution to the development of cardio-thoracic surgery in WA.

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November 20, 2007

AMA warning: Alcohol killing our kids

As Schoolies Week and alcohol combine to produce tragic headlines about death and injury to young people and reports of antisocial behaviour by drunken teenagers, the AMA is calling for stronger policies to curb dangerous excess alcohol consumption.

AMA President, Dr Rosanna Capolingua, said that irresponsible alcohol consumption causes harm across all age groups in the community, but the senseless loss of young lives through alcohol abuse must be stopped as a priority.

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Can the rising tide of obesity be halted?

Members concerned about the obesity epidemic will be better informed after referring to an illuminating British report, 'Tackling Obesity – Future Choices', which contains compelling information on the causes of obesity and the need for co-ordinated public health action to address our 'obesogenic environment'.

The report raises the key questions: Is society ready to make the change? Do our politicians understand the magnitude of the obesity epidemic? Will they adopt the public health policy measures required to overcome the excesses of the food industry and improve nutrition? How can this be achieved?

Click here for the full report.

The AMA (WA) would like to hear your views: email medelink@amawa.com.au.

Rural and Remote Mental Health Conference

The WA Country Health Service, in association with the Feast of Psychiatry, will host the annual Rural and Remote Mental Health Conference, taking place at Fremantle's Esplanade Hotel on December 5 and 6.

This year's conference theme is 'Developing Connections,' which will showcase examples of collaboration between health practitioners and organisations which have contributed towards improving the lives of patients and carers living in rural or remote areas.

Keynote speakers include Beyond Blue Deputy CEO Dr Nicole Highet and Professor of Health Policy at Curtin University, Mike Daube. To register click here or phone (08) 9781 2311.

AMA Wine Society

Members of the AMA (WA) Wine Society can purchase premium wines at specially negotiated prices, including limited and pre-release wines.

Tasting evenings and wine appreciation events are also held regularly for members.

AMA (WA) members can now join the Wine Society online. If you would like to become a member, please complete the online application form.

2008 Subscriptions due: Receive a $50 USB

It's that time of year again - subscription renewals for 2008 will be in the mail in the next two weeks along with the new Benefits and Services Directory.

If you pay by January 31, you will receive a complimentary USB valued at $50 and uploaded with a selection of useful resources.

To find out more contact our Membership Office on (08) 9273 3055 or email membership@amawa.com.au.