Latest News
Did you know that DHQ is a registered Charity? All donations over $2 are fully tax deductible and help us to support the health and wellbeing of Queensland's doctors and medical students. https://dhq.org.au/donate/
QMO is running the most amazing raffle for their upcoming concert (it will be drawn during the concert on 26th June). This raffle is to help them meet the cost of running of the concert, and to maximise the ticket sales to their charity Doctors' Health in Queensland....
Surge in doctors seeking help for own mental and physical health concerns
The Queensland Doctors' Health Programme helpline is receiving more calls from doctors about both physical and mental health concerns. Dr Jen Schafer says the number of doctors calling the service is "only the tip of the iceberg". Australian Medical Association of...
Doctors call for mental health help as patient demand rises
The number of people seeking GP appointments is on the rise, and doctors say they are burning out as they struggle to keep up with demand. Spike in calls to doctor helpline Support programs like the Queensland Doctors Health Program have noted a marked increase in...
Thank you to everyone who attended our DHQ Forum- The New Horizon on Friday 4th June 2021.
Here are a few take home points from our discussions: Peer connectedness is vital Remember the five F's 1. Food 2. Fitness – physical and emotional 3. Fun 4. Family – work-non-work balance 5. Football – make sure you...
DHQ farewells CEO Dr Fiona Hawthorne and welcomes Medical Director Dr Jennifer Schafer
A wonderful evening of sad farewells and welcoming celebrations held at Hunstanton on Friday 28th May 2021.
DHQ Celebrates 31 Years
Doctors’ Health in Queensland’s service arm board chair Ross Phillipson led the charge in acknowledging the honourable work the organisation has done for the medical community since it first began operations more than 31 years ago. Along with formally announcing the...
DHQ in the News!
Listen to our DHQ radio segment that aired on Friday PM on ABC NQ Radio Drive - our piece is at 2:06:35 https://www.abc.net.au/radio/northqld/programs/north-qld-drive/drive/12561362 The online story is...
Research on Doctors’ Mental Health
Written by Dr Ross Phillipson Research has shown that the majority of doctors generally enjoy good physical health. However, there has been concern expressed over many years that the mental health of doctors is not as high as it should be. Sadly, the suicide rate...
Queensland’s bespoke support service for doctors and medical students is pleased to announce a new name to better reflect the support we’ve been providing to doctors and medical students in Queensland for over 30 years. Formerly your local doctors’ health advisory service (DHAS(Q) & QDHP) we will be now known together as “Doctors’ Health in Queensland” (DHQ).
Callers to our help-line will always speak to a senior GP or specialised counsellor who has had training and is experienced in supporting doctor and medical student colleagues with a wider range of general health and stress-related problems. Doctors’ Health in Qld’s...
***Big news!***
The Queensland Doctors' Health Programme is now Doctors' Health Queensland! Our helpline number is the same (07 3833 4352).
Its our 4th Birthday on the 1st June!
QDHP is celebrating 4 years this Monday 4th of June 2020. We have some exciting changes coming soon. We would like to thank all the wonderful people who have helped QDHP grow and have been involved in doctors' health in Queensland.
Latest News via Facebook
Less than 24 hours left to RSVP for our DHQ Wellness Day!![]()
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With some inspiring speakers promoting wellbeing, discussing current topics for the profession and providing advice on supporting your colleagues, this is a day not to be missed.![]()
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Only a few spots remain so RSVP quickly to admin@dhq.org.au
Our workplace environment drastically affect our mental health and wellbeing 💙![]()
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Occupational safety - physical and psychological - are integral. Industrial issues, leave pay, rostering and workplace shortages need to be targeted to manage burnout, loss of productivity, poor morale and ultimately patient safety. Junior doctors especially require protection as they bear the brunt of an unhealthy workplace.![]()
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These issues are critically important to doctors health and DHASWA works hard behind the scenes with industrial bodies, workplaces, colleges, medical schools.![]()
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An important way we can make tangible change is to listen to doctors' needs. We can advocate with information from our states' AMA Hospital Health Check. Each state conducts their own survey and the results of the Queensland Hospital Health Check were released recently. ![]()
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Almost 60% of 719 junior doctors in the AMA Queensland Residents said they were concerned they would make a clinical error due to the number of hours they worked.![]()
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The proportion of junior doctors worried about fatigue-related medical errors had also increased to 51 per cent in 2021. ![]()
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We need to do better to protect our doctors, from interns to consultants, everywhere.![]()
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We stand with the WA doctor community 💙![]()
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www.abc.net.au/news/2022-09-26/amaq-union-survey-reveals-junior-doctors-fatigued-worried/10146868...![]()
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AMA Queensland Doctors' Health in Queensland Australian Medical Association
Only a few days remain to contribute to an incredibly important survey for our IMGs.![]()
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AMA Queensland’s anonymous survey for international medical graduates (IMGs) closes at midnight Monday 3 October: qld.ama.com.au/IMGsurvey ![]()
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· If you’re an IMG working in Queensland, please take the survey now.![]()
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· If you’re not an IMG, please share this survey widely with your Queensland networks.![]()
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This survey will help AMA Queensland develop policies and advocacy initiatives that provide targeted support for Queensland’s IMG community and the unique challenges they face working in Queensland.
AMA Queensland international medical graduate survey
qld.ama.com.au
AMA Queensland has launched an anonymous online survey to understand the needs and challenges facing international medical graduates (IMGs) in Queensland. IMGs face unique and complex obstacles in rec...
"So they've been working under increased pressures for the last few years at this point, and that's starting to really have an impact on their mental health and wellbeing and their safety, as well as the safety of patients."![]()
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Doctors' Health in Queensland provides free and confidential support to all QLD-based doctors and medical students. Call us on 07 3833 4352.
Fatigued junior doctors resign, concerned about making mistakes, survey reveals
www.abc.net.au
Almost 60 per cent of junior doctors are concerned about making fatigue-related mistakes, an Australian Medical Association survey reveals, with an increasing number believing there will be negative c...
The Emerging Leader Program is to support the next generation of doctors (PGY1-PGY8+) to transition effectively into their roles in different health services and other specialty and practice settings. Places are discounted to AMA Victoria members and other states.
Emerging leader professional development program
amavic.com.au
Emerging leader professional development program VIEW BROCHURE Aim of the program The aim of the Emerging Leader Program is to support the next generation of doctors (PGY1-PGY8+) to transition effe...
The 2022 Resident Hospital Health Check Survey results are now available: qld.ama.com.au/advocacy/resident-hospital-health-check![]()
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Doctors' Health in Queensland provides free and confidential support to all QLD-based doctors and medical students. Call us on 07 3833 4352.
2022 Resident Hospital Health Check
qld.ama.com.au
Resident Hospital Health Check In 2022, AMA Queensland and its Committee of Doctors in Training, in collaboration with ASMOFQ (Australian Salaried Medical Officers’ Federation Queensland), surveyed ...
A big thank you to our sponsors RACGP Qld for supporting our Wellness Day again this year. We are incredibly grateful for their continued support.![]()
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Did you know our Wellness Day is a registered event for Queensland Mental Health Week? With inspiring speakers promoting wellbeing places are filling quickly.![]()
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RSVP to admin@dhq.org.au
A few places left for the Pre-Conference Workshops (1st December) - amazing doctor-facilitators (some you will know well!!) at beautiful (& some historical) venues, book your place now!![]()
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- Creative Doctors (artists, winemaker, musician, comedian)![]()
- Writer's workshop for doctors![]()
- Medical Research (target audience doctors in training, and those new to research!)![]()
- Burnout (workshop almost fully booked, hurry!)![]()
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adhc.doctorshealthsa.com.au/workshops/![]()
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#doctorshealth #medicalstudenthealth ![]()
Doctors' Health in Queensland South Australian Medical Education and Training Doctors Health Advisory Service Western Australia - dhaswa Australian Medical Placements RACGP Rural Doctors Workforce Agency Rural Generalist Program South Australia Rural Doctors Workforce Agency Rural Doctors Association Australia MIGA Adelaide PHN Country SA PHN Sasmoa Ward
Start small and grow big. There is power in these small steps. They are the foundations of conversations and professional relationships that can then support the navigation of bigger, more challenging conversations that are done well and are productive.![]()
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amavic.com.au/news---resources/stethoscope/leadership-insight-the-power-of-the-check-in-an-essent...
The power of the ‘check-in’ - An essential leadership skill at any career stage
amavic.com.au
'Checking-in' is the act of stopping and asking someone how they're going. But most importantly its listening to what comes next. It's the starting point for strong relationships and good conversation...
A huge thank you to our Wellness Day sponsor MIPS for supporting us again this year to promote wellbeing for QLDs doctors. ![]()
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MIPS empowers members to navigate the risk of their profession with confidence and certainty, as they fully embrace the rewards and challenges of their career. MIPS also supports member wellbeing throughout their career.![]()
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With some inspiring speakers promoting wellbeing, discussing current topics for the profession and providing advice on supporting your colleagues, this is a day not to be missed.![]()
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RSVP via admin@dhq.org.au
As this month is self-care September, it is important to highlight the little things we can do for our own self-care.![]()
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What sort of things do you keep with you or in your locker that contribute to self-care during a busy work day?![]()
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Ingrid Torjesen interviews doctors to find a veritable Narnia of essentials and comforts with improvement suggestions for inbuilt phone chargers and a pull-out camp bed.
What should I keep in my locker?
www.bmj.com
Some doctors are lucky enough to score a hospital locker. Ingrid Torjesen finds out what useful items they put in them Leyla Turkoglu, core anaesthetics trainee, east of England, says, “Virginia Woo...
Three key themes emerged from thematic analysis, namely: well-being strategies, barriers to well-being and and future interventions. Exercise, a healthy and balanced diet, quality sleep, and workplace organisations were frequently reported well-being strategies. High workload, unpredictable routines, lack of familiarity with the healthcare system and ongoing stigma surrounding mental health were seen as barriers to well-being. Suggested interventions included increased control over rosters, subsidised access to facilities such as gyms and increased internship preparedness programmes organised by the medical schools.
bmjopen.bmj.com
Objectives This study aimed to uncover the strategies that junior doctors implement to maintain their mental, physical and social well-being, and the barriers they experience in practising these strat...
Our fabulous DHQ Annual Wellness Day program is ready!![]()
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With some inspiring speakers promoting wellbeing, discussing current topics for the profession and providing advice on supporting your colleagues, this is a day not to be missed.![]()
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Oh, and of course, optional seated massages, walking and chair yoga.![]()
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Don't forget to RSVP to admin@dhq.org.au as places are filling quickly!
A huge thank you to the Queensland Medical Orchestra and Choir in raising over twelve thousand dollars for Doctors' Health in Queensland at their recent 10th Anniversary Gala Concert.![]()
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DHQ is incredibly grateful for their donation that will contribute to the health and wellbeing of medical students and doctors in Qld!![]()
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Find their next concerts here: www.qmo.org.au/qmo/upcoming-events.html
‘[The] outcome that has led me to believe BOP is a success – more than increasing profit margins, appointment accessibility and reducing doctor sick days – is having the pleasure of working in a medical centre where people are genuinely happy to be at work.'![]()
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‘Anybody who has ever been employed will know that job satisfaction may sometimes feel impossible to achieve and I’m immensely proud that we’re doing it.’
newsGP - How a Tasmanian clinic increased profits by 20% – and beat burnout
www1.racgp.org.au
‘Burnout Prevention’, where GPs work altered hours and are encouraged to do restorative activities outside of work, has benefited clinicians and patients alike.
Today is #RUOKDay2022.![]()
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It's a reminder to start a conversation that could change a life - not just on #ruokday, but any day it's needed.![]()
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Doctors' Health in Queensland provides free and confidential support to all QLD-based doctors and medical students. Call us on 07 3833 4352.![]()
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Find tips on how to ask, and what to say if someone says they aren't OK, at bit.ly/2ZcG05n #ruok
How to ask "Are you OK?" | R U OK?
bit.ly
R U OK? is a suicide prevention charity encouraging Australians to start life-changing conversations, when they're needed most. Four simple steps guide you to ask "Are you OK?", and help someone in ne...
We are seeking expressions of interest for an International Medical Graduates (IMGs) Support Group in Queensland.![]()
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If you are a current IMG or a doctor wishing to provide support and/or mentoring please email Naomi via admin@dhq.org.au
This week is Women's Health Week, a timely reminder for women to take positive and practical steps to being healthy in mind and body. This year's highlighted topics include the top five concerns in women’s health.![]()
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Are you a medical student or doctor needing a regular GP? Find one on our Find a Health professional directory here: dhq.org.au/directory/
Find A Health Professional - Doctors' Health Advisory Service (Qld)
dhq.org.au
Looking for a GP? Check out our top tips on Choosing a GP This directory is still under construction, please contact us directly if you cannot find a health professional [...]
Interested in doctors’ health and wellbeing? ![]()
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Join us for our annual Wellness Day on Saturday 15th October at Victoria Park. ![]()
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This Wellness Day is for both junior and senior doctors to discuss wellbeing, caring for colleagues, medico-legal matters plus much more. Program will be released soon with inspiring speakers and topics. ![]()
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To register please email admin@dhq.org.au
Burnout is not just an individual problem. It is an organisational issue, affecting turnover and intention to leave, as well as the ability to deliver quality healthcare.![]()
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Doctors' Health in Queensland provides free and confidential support to all QLD-based doctors and medical students. Call us on 07 3833 4352.
newsGP - Why Australia needs a systemic response to burnout
www1.racgp.org.au
Healthcare workers are under strain more than any other time in history. A strategic approach is needed, not tokenistic wellbeing advice, writes Dr Tammra Warby.
Neurodivergent doctors are an asset to medicine, but, as a final year medical student, recently diagnosed with Autism, explains, more understanding and awareness is needed to help others embrace this neurodiversity. ![]()
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DHQ supports QLD doctors and med students.![]()
Call 3833 4352. Help is only a call away!![]()
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medicguild.com/articles/neurodiversity-in-medicine/
Neurodiversity in Medicine | Medicguild
medicguild.com
Neurodivergent doctors are an asset to medicine, but, as a final year medical student, recently diagnosed as Autistic and beginning to embrace their difference, explains, more understanding and awaren...
Let’s clear up one common misconception from the get-go: Self-care is not synonymous with self-indulgence or being selfish. Self-care means taking care of yourself so that you can be healthy, you can be well, you can do your job, you can help and care for others, and you can do all the things you need to and want to accomplish in a day.![]()
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DHQ supports QLD doctors and med students.![]()
Call 3833 4352. Help is only a call away!
What Is Self-Care and Why Is It Critical for Your Health?
www.everydayhealth.com
Self-care is an important part of dealing with the stressors of everyday life, experts say. Here’s a guide to all the ways practicing self-care regularly can help your health and well-being, as well...
BURNOUT SERIES - Medcast Aus is hosting a free Webinar for Health Practitioners called 'Self-care for Health Practitioners'![]()
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Health professionals have faced enormous stress over the past two years, with little time to look after themselves. Many health professionals are told to manage their wellbeing by getting more sleep, taking holidays or doing other activities that, while tempting, simply are not possible in the current health system.![]()
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This webinar discusses ways of managing wellbeing that really work, including the steps we must take to change healthcare culture.
Webinar 55 | More than just self-care: health practitioner wellbeing
medcast.com.au
Health professionals have faced enormous stress over the past two years. This webinar will discuss managing wellbeing, including steps to changing healthcare culture.
What are some specific benefits of compassion?![]()
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The preponderance of scientific evidence shows that serving others, even showing simple kindness, is the best medicine for yourself. It is associated with tons of benefits for physical health, mental health, emotional health, and happiness, fulfillment, and well-being, as well as professional success.
Why compassion is important in health care
www.inquirer.com
Authors of a new book, “Wonder Drug,” found that doses of serving others “lead to a long life of health, wellness, happiness and success” for the one who serves.
Smiling Mind and KPMG are launching an Australian Mental Wellbeing Index that will provide a snapshot insight into the everyday mental wellbeing of Australia on an ongoing basis.![]()
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The Australian Mental Wellbeing Index is made up of six everyday mental wellbeing domains: emotional awareness, focus and concentration, emotional regulation, relationships & social connections, sleep, and stress. The Australian Mental Wellbeing Index aims to provide a consistent and reliable dataset to inform mental wellbeing policy and decision making; draw attention to changes in national trends in Australia’s mental wellbeing; and reframe how Australians consider mental wellbeing.
4687378.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net
4687378.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net
Mater is pioneering therapeutic horticulture for its hospital staff with the launch of an edible garden pilot project, designed to reduce burnout and enhance the wellbeing of health workers.
Mater plants pilot study to boost wellbeing of health workers
www.mater.org.au
Mater is pioneering therapeutic horticulture for its hospital staff with the launch of an edible garden pilot project, designed to reduce burnout and enhance the wellbeing of health workers.News stori...
Workplace leave entitlements are an important tool to assist you to maintain your wellbeing as a doctor. Accessing these entitlements and taking leave when you need to is essential to enable you to rest and relax, recover from illness, care for others, prepare for and sit exams and have a balance in your life. Leave entitlements are recognition that doctors are human and have a range of priorities in life outside of the workplace. Many healthcare professionals are experiencing burnout due to dealing with the ongoing challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent workforce shortages. Using leave to rest and recover is more important than ever.![]()
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DHQ supports QLD doctors and med students.![]()
Call 3833 4352. Help is only a call away!
Leave entitlements are important for your wellbeing as a doctor
amavic.com.au
Workplace leave entitlements are an important tool to assist you to maintain your wellbeing as a doctor. Many healthcare professionals are experiencing burnout due to dealing with the ongoing challeng...
Are you interested in doctors' health and have skills related to assuring the health and wellbeing of our medical workforce?![]()
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We are seeking expressions of interest from potential candidates for Volunteer Board Directors.![]()
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www.seek.com.au/job/57859457?type=standard#sol=6cb74ee2a01090eb14d8d451360e23bfa4fa10b8
Volunteer Board Director - Doctors' Health in Queensland Job in Brisbane
www.seek.com.au
Doctors’ Health in Queensland began in the 1980’s when a group of volunteer doctors decided to develop an organised approach to assisting their colleagues in difficulty. This led to the formation ...
How much autonomy is enough autonomy for us as doctors? As it turns out, there is a number. And that number is 20%. From Dr Tait Shanafelt [1]: Evidence suggests that doctors who spend at least 20% of their time focused on the dimension of work they find most meaningful are at dramatically lower risk for burnout. ![]()
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DHQ supports QLD doctors and med students.![]()
Call 3833 4352. Help is only a call away!
amavic.com.au
Paediatric and Adult Otolaryngologist Head and Neck Surgeon Dr Eric Levi reflects on the concept of 'autonomy' in medicine - how much autonomy is enough for doctors to thrive?
Wonderful tips on how to navigate the transition between medical school and working as clinicians!![]()
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Doctors' Health in Queensland provides free and confidential support to all QLD-based doctors and medical students. Call us on 07 3833 4352.
10 tips for transitioning from medical student to intern and beyond | Dr Shahina Braganza
shahinabraganza.com
Moving from the passenger seat into the driver's seat as a medical school graduate is arguably the steepest curve in the journey of being a doctor. Here are 10 tips to help aid the transition - for ne...