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The Good GPThe Good GP, the education podcast for busy GPs Author: The Good GP
The Good GP, the education podcast for busy GPs; brought to you by Dr Tim Koh, Dr Krystyna DeLange and Dr Sean Stevens. The Good GP is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Disclaimer: The Good GP podcasts are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always seek the advice of a specialist GP or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Language: en Genres: Education, Health & Fitness, Medicine Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Syphilis update in Australia
Episode 240
Monday, 20 April, 2026
In this episode, Dr Tim Koh speaks with Dr Grace Phua, a GP and public health clinician from the Health Department of Western Australia’s Syphilis Response Team, to provide an update on syphilis in Australia and practical guidance for general practitioners.Key Points:Changing Epidemiology: They highlight the recent increase in syphilis, with cases now extending beyond traditional higher-risk groups. All sexually active patients may be at risk, making ongoing awareness in general practice essential.Clinical Presentation: The primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary stages of syphilis, noting the diverse and often atypical presentations. Classic signs such as ulcers and rashes may vary, and neurological symptoms can occur at any stage.Screening and Testing: GPs are reminded to include syphilis serology in routine STI screening and to swab any ulcer for syphilis PCR (using a dry swab and requesting “syphilis PCR” on the form). Pregnant people require syphilis screening in early and late pregnancy, and higher-risk groups need more frequent testing.Serology Interpretation and Treatment: The use of treponemal and non-treponemal tests. Benzathine benzylpenicillin is the recommended treatment. Empirical treatment of contacts, especially for hard-to-reach patients, is encouraged.Further Resources and Support: GPs are advised to access national guidelines and decision-making aids for detailed management and to consult public health units as required.The Good GP Podcast is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/networkIf you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to thegoodgp@gmail.com. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information. You can also find us on our Instagram page: @thegoodgppodcast. Follow us for more updates!
