Recognising our best
The recent WA Rural Health Awards recognised the cream of the crop among WA’s rural doctors. Supported by Rural Health West and the WA Country Health Service, the top gongs included GP of the Year Dr Samantha Weaver (left), Specialist of the Year Dr Charles Greenfield (centre), Procedural GP/ District Medical Officer of the Year Dr Peter Smith, and Rising Star Dr Caitlyn White (right).
Pharmaxis has announced a world-first clinical trial of a treatment to prevent wound and burn scars, led by burns expert Professor Fiona Wood and UWA researchers. It has the potential to transform trauma recovery by blocking the underlying fibrosis that causes scar tissue.
Cancer Council Australia has produced fact sheets on less common cancers to help health professionals and their patients. It is estimated that rare cancers, including soft tissue sarcoma and gall bladder cancer, affect about 52,000 Australians each year. Details are at cancer.org.au/cancer-information/types-of-cancer/rare-cancers
Kimberley-based Aboriginal community-controlled and government health services, research institutes and universities have united to form the Kimberley Aboriginal Health Research Alliance, with the objective of improving and promoting the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal people through practical health research. It will be chaired by respected Aboriginal leader Mick Gooda.
The Stroke Foundation says new guidelines have been developed with effective rehabilitation techniques for leg and arm weakness after stroke, providing greater direction for health professionals and improved patient outcomes. They are available at www.strokefoundation.org.au