Author: Alex Hofer

COVID–19 pandemic and rural generalism

“New Zealanders recently learnt that the first COVID-19 patient death occurred in Greymouth Hospital. What has been most revealing for local clinicians is the effect on our workforce. Simultaneously 21 staff members have been put into self-isolation.” Read the full article here Open Access in the NZMJ. Senior managers and...

Non-sterile gloves for abscess I&D?

The clinic nurse was setting up for an incision and drainage (I&D) of an abscess.  After opening the dressing pack and laying out the necessary equipment, she inquired about my glove size.  I replied “small”.  She said, “oh no, Doc, what size STERILE gloves?” This made me question a...

Silos in health care: how can we master them?

A friend of mine recently had a baby.  Let’s call her Amy.  She lives in one of Australia’s many quaint country towns. This week, in addition to managing the usual sleep deprivation and adjustment that comes with a newborn, she also had several appointments to attend.  She saw her...

Reflections & Resources from the RACGP QLD Clinical Update

I escaped the rock recently and spent the long weekend in Brisbane.  In addition to the usual mainland activities (eating out, shopping, attending the local cinema and more shopping), I attended the RACGP Qld Clinical Update. I often come home from conferences feeling reinvigorated and inspired, but I never...

Magnesium for leg cramps…just as good as placebo?

Clinical question: does magnesium work for leg cramps? Findings 1: Cochrane review, 2012 Both magnesium & placebo reduce the frequency of leg cramps with a non-significant difference between the two groups.  The Cochrane review analysed four RCTs (n=322), two of which were deemed to have a high risk of...

Urinary incontinence

Island Docs are generalists.  We strive to maintain a breadth of knowledge rather than focus on a particular specialty field.  In our efforts to provide high quality patient care, we work hard to keep up to date with the latest evidence and guidelines.  We are lucky to receive regular...