Allergic conditions affect 20% of Australians. Rural doctors are presented with a wide range of clinical allergies and mimics to manage. This talk will explore innovative pathways for connecting doctors from diverse geographic settings with clinical immunology/allergy specialists to support effective allergy management and continuity of care for patients in underserved areas.
There are three current approaches to linking GPs with allergy specialists, which offer either formal education and training opportunities or informal ‘dip in for advice when you need it’ type support, depending on the GPs appetite and capacity. The intention is to coach GPs through the diagnosis, treatment and management of allergic conditions, with the aim of GPs requiring less support as their experience grows. Always with the option and ability to contact a specialist for further advice, support and/or referral in challenging cases. Didactic teaching methods are avoided. Rather, in-context learning though real case examples are used to demonstrate diagnostic and management reasoning. Virtual communities of practice and regional networks intend to nurture peer mentorship and provide ongoing CPD.
Patients benefit from more rapid diagnosis leading to correct management and treatment, continuity of healthcare provider, and a reduction in unnecessary travel and missed school or work days.