Podcast appearances and mentions of bryan betty

There's been a lot of discussion and concerns about the long-term effects of vaping of late, especially regarding young people. New research has started to uncover potential long-term problems with vaping. What is the problem with vaping? It was introduced as a “quit smoking” tool and was accepted to be less harmful than smoking. Useful as a quit smoking tool, as a substitute for cigarettes . However, the growing issue in NZ is young people taking up vaping who would otherwise not smoke. Surveys indicate that 26.5% of 18–24-year-olds and 10% of 14–18-year-olds vape daily. Concerns if there would be long-term effects on these young people. Is it addictive? Many vapes have nicotine which is highly addictive. Increasing reports of people not being able to get off vapes. We know nicotine can cause concerns over brain development, increased risk of anxiety, raise blood pressure, and increased heartrates. Vapes can irritate the lungs, causing coughs and even some concerns over increased risk of collapsed lungs. A new study has started to shed light A new study out of Oxford University has identified long term harm from vaping alone. It followed nearly 250,000 individuals who vaped, over four years. Major finding: vapers are 2.29 times more likely to develop Chronic Obstructive Airways Disease – COPD. COPD is often referred to as emphysema: lungs stiffen, lots of mucous, recurrent infections, and reduced ability to get oxygen into the blood stream due to lung damage. Permanent damage. Among 30-70-year-olds, they're 1.39 times more likely to have high blood pressure. Implications of this? Obviously, it's an issue for the number of young teenagers taking up vaping and an emerging health issue overall. We need to think hard about our approach to vaping – Australia has made vaping prescription only. Restrictions have been put in place in New Zealand. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government has announced $164 million in extra funding for after-hours doctors clinics around the country - but the announcement doesn't include any specific funding for services in central Wellington. Currently, those seeking 24/7 care are required to travel to a clinic in Kenepuru - and that looks set to remain the case. To discuss the announcement and the importance of after hours primary care, Porirua GP and chair of General Practice New Zealand Dr Bryan Betty joined Nick Mills. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Saturday Morning with Jack Tame Full Show Podcast for Saturday 16 May 2025, as many Naked Samoans as will fit in the studio crowd in to chat with Jack about getting the gang back together and on stage again for the New Zealand International Comedy Festival. Jack reflects on how far Auckland FC have come. Kate Hall is expanding her family and Jack asks the big sustainability question on everybody's mind – what will she do about nappies? Dr Bryan Betty expresses concern around the recent measles outbreak. And tech expert Paul Stenhouse dishes the details on the "official air taxi provider" for the LA 2028 Olympic Games. Get the Saturday Morning with Jack Tame Full Show Podcast every Saturday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

78 people are to be quarantined after coming in contact with measles. Health New Zealand's said it's reached out to 286 close contacts since the first case was confirmed earlier this month. 90% of people unvaccinated that come in contact with measles will be infected. Dr Bryan Betty said it's one of the most contagious diseases known to man. He says Covid has a reproduction number of 2-3 and influenza is 1.3, so measles sitting at 12 to 18 is completely off the scale. Betty says people should limit their movements. He says if people think they have measles, they should ring their medical centre for advice as they risk spreading the disease if they turn up to their medical centre. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dengue fever is in the news right now after the death of a young Samoan boy at Starship Hospital last week. As many New Zealanders travel to the Pacific Islands, the recent outbreak means it's something to consider. The other interesting fact about dengue fever is as well as being relevant to the Pacific, it's becoming more common around the world due to climate change – increasing temperature and humidity driving mosquito population and leading to more people being infected. What is it? A mosquito-spread virus. You get it when a mosquito bites you that is infected with dengue fever. Unlike malaria, it's carried by the small mosquitoes that come out during the day. Not the evening/early morning mosquitoes that typically carry malaria. It's becoming more common around the world with climate change – with hotter more humid temperatures. Endemic in Pacific, which is presently going through an outbreak. Can actually now be found in places like far North Queensland. It could it reach New Zealand one day – possibly with climate change. What happens if you are bitten by a mosquito carrying dengue fever? Symptoms occur 4-10 days after the mosquito bite. Typical symptoms: High fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint aches (has been referred to as ‘break bone fever'), nausea, vomiting, and skin rash. Often people recover after 1-2 weeks. Severe form is called haemorrhagic fever with bleeding, cardiovascular shock, and sometimes death. Typically occurs when you get an infection a second time – not the first. What can we do treat it? Important: There is no vaccine to prevent the disease, once you have it there is no treatment. Just treat the symptoms: Paracetamol, not ibuprofen or aspirin as this can increase bleeding risk. Plenty of fluids and rest. A majority will get better, however, if symptoms are severe, you need to see a doctor and may need the hospital. How do we prevent it? Be aware that Pacific destinations Fiji, Tonga and Samoa have had recent outbreaks. Outbreaks are often every 2-5 years with year-round risk. Resorts often put in place protocols to reduce/eliminate mosquitoes. If mosquitoes are around, protect against getting bitten with insect repellents, long sleeve shorts/pants, and mosquito nets. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is the Achilles tendon? It's the largest strongest tendon in the human body. A fibrous cord that attaches the calve muscle of the lower leg to the heel. You can feel it at the back of your ankle. It's critical to walking, running, and jumping. How do we injure it? The most common situation is during an active sport – rugby, soccer, basketball, etc. Happens with forceful movement sprinting, jumping. Quick stops or change in direction, direct trauma to the tendon. For older people, the tendon can weaken and rupture. What are the symptoms? A sudden sharp pain back of lower leg or heel. There's often a popping or snapping sound. People are unable to walk or stand on tiptoes, and there's swelling or bruising lower back of leg. You can sometimes see or feel a gap or indent in tendon. What do you do about it? You need diagnosis: a doctor will examine you and often order an ultrasound or MRI. Non-surgical: try and get to heal up on your own – only applies for a partial tear or a ‘non athlete'. Often put in special moon boot for up to 2 months Orthopaedic Surgeon: For a complete rupture, athletes, younger healthier patients – no surgery fails. Often within two weeks of injury, they stitch the tendon back together 3-6 months of recovery and physio involved to rehab and strengthen the tendon and get moving again. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pope Francis has spent a month in hospital, struggling with bilateral pneumonia – but what exactly is this infection? What is pneumonia? It's a serious infection of the lungs. Bacteria and virus (or even a fungus) lodge themselves down in the lungs and cause an infection. It's often at the base of one or both lungs. The body reacts to the bacteria or virus, causing a reaction to get rid of the infection, resulting in inflamed lung tissue with fluid or pus. What are the causes and how do we know we have pneumonia? There are two basic types: community acquired, and hospital acquired (hospitals are dangerous places for infections!). Risk factors: a weakened immune system, which could be a result of age, a chronic illness like diabetes, asthma, some medications, smoking, or admittance to a hospital. Viruses such as influenza, Covid, and RSV can cause pneumonia, which is why they are dangerous. Main symptoms (can be sudden onset): cough, bringing up phlegm, fever/chills, chest pain, feeling short of breath. How do we treat pneumonia? It depends on the type. It's often community acquired and is diagnosed on exam with a chest Xray. Treatment includes antibiotics, fluids, rest, paracetamol. If it's severe and you have difficulty breathing – go to the hospital. If it's caused by a virus (influenza or Covid), it's occasionally treated with an anti-viral medication, however, often paracetamol, fluids, rest are used. Some can end up in hospital with oxygen, or if severe, a ventilator till it gets better. How do we prevent pneumonia? This is a reason why vaccination so important, preventing things like influenza, Covid, pneumococcal. Quit smoking. A healthy immune system: eat a balanced diet, regular exercise, mange diabetes, or asthma. If you're short of breath with a temperature, see your doctor! LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Health Minister Simeon Brown has unveiled plans to launch a tele-health service, allowing patients to see a doctor or nurse from home via their mobile device. “This service will mean Kiwis can access primary healthcare from anywhere in New Zealand, 24 hours a day, seven days a week with the ability for GPs and nurses to also issue prescriptions or make referrals for lab tests," Brown said yesterday. Dr Bryan Betty, a Wellington-based GP, said tele-health is a good solution for those who need to see a doctor urgently for an illness like a cold or sore elbow - but isn't the answer to the problem of thousands of Kiwis not having a GP. He joined Nick Mills to discuss the announcement. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Government plan to extend repeat prescription terms to 12 months could follow international trends. The current supply limit is generally three months - possibly longer for contraceptives and overseas travel. The Ministry of Health opened consultation last year. General Practice New Zealand chair, Doctor Bryan Betty, says Australia, the US and the UK have already made similar moves. "There were similar sorts of restrictions on prescribing there, but all of those countries have started to loosen this up in terms of flexibility." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A sprained ankle, one of the most common injuries seen at practice. What is a sprained ankle? Injury that occurs when you roll, twist or turn your ankle in an awkward way. Commonest injury when the sole of foot turned inwards – called an inversion injury – damages outside of ankle. The injury strains or tears the ligaments that help hold and stabilise the joint. What are the risks of a sprained ankle and main symptoms? Obvious risk is playing sport – rugby soccer where the ankle ‘rolls' Uneven surfaces, being unfit, improper shoes causing you to fall, landing awkwardly after jump, higher risk if previous sprained ankle. . Main symptom one: immediate pain after roll the ankle, difficulty walking swelling and painful to touch. Bruising and restricted movement of the ankle, popping sound, sensation when the injury occurs. How do we teat them? Immediate treatment: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation. Pain relief with things such as paracetamol. If not settled in 48 hours see your doctor to: Examine the ankle, may order x-ray to make sure not broken. Get physio involved to start exercise program to get the ankle back to normal. May take up to 6 weeks to heal. In severe cases : may use a ‘moon boot' or walking boot to immobilise the ankle till swelling goes down. How do we prevent them? Warm up before sports ankle support if previously injured. Good fitting shoes important ( high heels a risk!) Stay fit, practice balance exercises. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Head lice, otherwise known as nits or kutis, is one of the most frustrating medical conditions parents have to face. It's very common and often seen in school outbreaks. What are head lice and who gets them? They're small insects found on the head. They live on hair and suck blood from the scalp. They lay eggs on the hair – looking like little grains of sand stuck to hair. Anyone can get them; it has nothing to do with poor hygiene. They do not carry disease. Only humans can get them, and they're spread through direct head contact. Often found on children who sleep together or play together. Often spread by school outbreaks. They can't live when not on the head and die quickly. How do you know you have them? Sometimes can see live insects moving on the scalp. Nits, headlice eggs look like small grains of sand stuck to hair that can't be brushed out: often found around the ears and back of the neck. Intense itch sometimes, kids often scratch at their hair. Scratching can cause sores to develop on the scalp. Often causes redness, swelling scalp. What do you do about them? Two things: You need to kill the live adult insects using a special shampoo and get rid of the eggs stuck to the hair. Use head lice shampoo ‘Dimethicone' twice, one week apart. It's not an insecticide, it suffocates the live head lice. You then have to comb out the eggs stuck to the hair, so they don't hatch. A few times every day for 1-2 weeks: use a fine-tooth nit comb, wet comb with the conditioner and comb till no eggs coming free. Any other things to think about? If one child gets infected in the family, check the rest of family and treat with shampoo on the same day. Tell your school – school outbreaks are common. It's difficult to prevent. Never ever use fly spray or kerosene (sometimes promoted): dangerous! LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you believed the Prime Minister when he said yesterday that he still has confidence in the now-former health minister Shane Reti, you will believe anything. Let's face it, though, he couldn't have said anything different. But whether you believe it or not - that's another thing. And I don't. Because he clearly doesn't - or he clearly doesn't have as much faith in Shane Reti as he used to. Otherwise, Simeon Brown wouldn't be the new health minister. And who would want to be Simeon Brown? Being the minister of health, you're on a hiding to nothing. And who would want to be working in the health system? I wouldn't. Because, trust me, it's about to get ugly. I know people working in health might say “it's pretty ugly already mate”. In fact, one person I know who works pretty high up in the health system - and who is a big advocate of the public system - they've been telling anyone who will listen that they should be getting private health insurance. If they can afford it, of course. So here's why I think things are about to get ugly - or uglier - with Simeon Brown in charge of health. Christopher Luxon says he's given him the job because he “gets things done”. Which is a term that drives me nuts because this whole idea of “getting things done” says nothing about quality or improvement. It's just ticking things off the to-do list. Or ticking things off the quarterly plan. And Simeon Brown has form. He's got a track record from the other ministerial roles he's had so far where he gets stuff done by telling people what they're going to do. Local government. He's made it very clear to local councils who is running the shop. And it's not them. Transport .He's flying in the face of what the experts say about speed and he's going to increase speed limits. And, as of yesterday's announcement, Dunedin can kiss goodbye to the hospital the people thought they were getting and the hospital they still want to get. Because the Prime Minister is going to be putting Simeon on a plane south to bang some heads together. Which is what the Prime Minister was really saying yesterday. It might've sounded like he was saying that the new health minister got the job because he gets stuff done. But what he really meant, was that Simeon's got the gig because he's good at banging heads together. Don't get me wrong - he does get stuff done. But is that really the approach we should be taking when it comes to something as critical as our health system? I don't think it is. Not that I think Shane Reti was up for the job, either. Last year I ended up in hospital for a night after some pretty bad complications from a flu bug I picked-up travelling back from the UK. And if you ask me how I felt about that experience - it was brilliant. Sure, I would have preferred not to be there in the first place. But I couldn't have asked for more. And, a lot of the time, from what I hear people say - it seems that most are pretty happy - if not delighted - with the care they receive in hospital. Trick is, though, that's once they get in the door. Get in the door of your local hospital and, generally, you're fine. The only proviso I would put on that is that I live in New Zealand's second-largest city and I know things - even once you're through the door - can be a bit average at some of our smaller hospitals. Take Dargaville hospital. Last year there was that issue with no doctors on the wards overnight. That had been going on for a few months and the nurses weren't happy about it. And poor old Shane Reti was in the firing line. Pouring cold water on rumours that the whole place was going to be shut down. But, of course, hospitals are only part of the health system. I heard Bryan Betty, who heads the organisation representing GPs, was saying that he thought Shane Reti had been doing a pretty good job. Which is another reason why I think Simeon Brown is on a collision course. Because even though the Prime Minister didn't like the pace Shane Reti was working at - and even though I don't think Shane Reti was all that good as a health minister - I don't think Simeon Brown's approach is going to do us any favours at all. Because Mr Get-Stuff-Done is also going to be Mr Get-Peoples-Backs-Up. And that's not going to do anyone any favours. It's not going to you any favours. It's not going to me any favours. And it's certainly not going to do anyone working in the health system any favours. But if Simeon Brown proves me wrong - and if he does manage to get people on-side and does manage to make the health system better than it is now - then I'll be the first to acknowledge it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sun: Great for outdoors - improves mood, gives us vitamin D for bone health. Too much sun is our biggest danger: sunburn. We have a harsh sun with lots of UV light. Easy to cause sunburn which sets us up for skin cancer later in life. NZ has one of the highest melanoma rates in the world. Think protection: sunblock, loose long sleeves, hats, children rash tops at beach. A cloudy daywon'tprotect you. Avoid getting burnt! Water Quality when swimming: Rivers, lakes, and beaches are great in summer. However hidden risk we don't think about: contaminated water. This can give us tummy bugs and the dreaded vomiting and diarrhea. Key things to watch for: Generally, avoid swimming after very heavy rain: contaminated with stormwater, sewage overflow. Look out for signs - if it says don't swim – don't! – Risk of contamination is high! Watch out for strange smells – don't go in, Discoloration sign be sign of run off. Avoid pipes and culverts. Food Keep food safe over summer, especially in the heat. The four C's: clean, cook, cover and chill Harmful bacteria live in such as salmonella live in food that is not handled properly Keep your hands and surfaces clean, rinse fruit and vegetables Chicken isa big problem: separate chopping board, separate knife, wash hands after handling, cook right through. Keep cooked food chilled between 2 and 4 degrees. Keep food covered away from flies and bugs. Overall have a good time and stay safe! LISTEN ABOVE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new survey out of Massey University has sparked concerns surrounding the number of Kiwis using prescription drugs recreationally. One out of four survey respondents reported using pharmaceuticals for non-medicinal purposes in the previous six months. General Practice NZ chair Dr Bryan Betty says pain medications, sedatives like benzodiazepines, gabapentin and ADHD medications are most likely to be abused. "Most GPs are aware of the issue - and are very careful when prescribing these medications." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whooping Cough A national epidemic has just been declared in New Zealand. Reported 260+ cases diagnosed in past four weeks. Whooping cough is potentially a fatal disease especially in younger children and babies less than one year. Three babies died last year in New Zealand from whooping cough when we didn't have an epidemic! What is whooping cough? Caused by a bacteria called pertussis. Damages lining of throat and lungs causing cough. Cough can go on for weeks or months – called ‘100' day cough. Very easy to catch – spreads through the air – cough/sneezing - one person can on average spread to 12 others. What are the signs? Depends on age - Younger the child more at risk of becoming very unwell. Starts with runny nose, temp and sneezing 1-2 weeks Cough develops, very irritating, bouts of coughing with gasping for air between coughs, may last minutes and may vomit after cough. Older children typically whoop as they gasp for breath. Younger infants less than 6 months: go blue with cough spasms, stop breathing, not able to feed, get exhausted – may need hospital. Gradually over weeks, up to 3 months cough gets better. In older adults and children – symptoms less severe. Who is at risk? Partially immunized children. Babies too young for their first immunization at 6 weeks. Children with heart or lung conditions. How is it treated? Antibiotics may reduce the severity if given early and can reduce spread. However, there is no treatment for the cough once it starts. Babies: The cough may make the baby difficult to breath and unable to feed. Sometimes will need to go to hospital for oxygen treatment and feeding through a nasal tube. How do you prevent it and when to see your doctor? Immunization is the only protection. In particular pregnant mums after 16 weeks should be immunized as gives protection to baby in first6 weeks of life. Partially immunized children at risk. See your doctor if your child has difficulty breathing or looks unwell. Call ambulance if child or baby goes blue coughing, stops breathing or seizure. Current outbreak The latest ESR data, which covers the four weeks up to 8 November, showed rates were highest among infants less than a year old, those most vulnerable to severe disease, and with a high proportion requiring hospitalisation. It also identified hotspots in in Wairarapa, Southern, Whanganui and Capital and Coast health districts. Wairarapa had 13 cases, which was by far the highest rate at 25.4 cases per 100,000 people. That was followed by Southern at 11.6 (42 cases), Whanganui at 11.4 (8 cases) and Capital and Coast at 10.4 (34 cases).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ADHD diagnoses and prescriptions have surged around the world - but there's concern from experts that we might be overdoing it. In New Zealand, prescriptions for the relevant medication have increased tenfold since 2006 and Pharmac has reported a 140 percent rise in demand for these medications. General Practice NZ chair Dr Bryan Betty says it's a complex diagnosis - and there are several conditions that can mimic ADHD symptoms. "ADHD is very complex, there's a list of diagnostic criteria. It's really really important that assessments give a proper diagnosis, because the treatment can be life-changing - and it's really important to understand that. However, it can mimic a whole lot of other things." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A painful form of arthritis, gout is the second most common form affecting New Zealanders. A major international study involving around 2.6 million people, has revealed that genetics are a major cause, not lifestyle choices. Dr Bryan Betty joined Jack Tame to run through the study, what gout looks like, and how it impacts people. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What exactly is an abdominal hernia? - It's where an internal part of body pushes through weak part of your abdominal wall muscle, creating a lump that often you can feel. - It's very common, more common in men but can occur in any age from babies to the elderly. - There's several different types: - Inguinal: occurs in the groin and can sometimes cause lump in the scrotum. - Femoral: occurs where abdomen joins leg. - Umbilical: the front of the stomach often around the tummy button. - Hiatus: where stomach pushes up into the chest. - Incisional: over a surgery scar What causes hernias? - Lots of different things: being overweight, coughing or sneezing, constipation, pregnancy. - Some people have weaker abdominal walls, and hernias can occur more easily. - Occasionally caused by injury from lifting – in which case can be covered by ACC What should you look out for and are they serious? - Most people notice a bulging lump in their stomach or groin. - You may occasionally notice discomfort when bending over or lifting things. - Generally they are small, and if they pop out they can be easily pushed back in. - Over time they can become bigger and cause more discomfort and pain. - Occasionally the bowel can twist and not be able to be pushed back in and become strangulated. This is serious and requires urgent medical help. What do about them? - Your GP will take a history and examine you to diagnose a hernia, they may order a U/S if unsure. - If it's minor and not causing problems, just watch and wait. - However, if it's causing pain and discomfort, they may recommend surgery. - An operation to fix the abdominal wall with stitches or what is called mesh, it's often a keyhole surgery. - You can try to avoid them by eating food with fibre so you don't become constipated, not putting on weight, and careful lifting with your knees instead of your back. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why is prostate cancer a problem?  - It occurs in the prostate, a gland that sits below the bladder and produces fluid for semen.  - It's the second highest cause of cancer death in men. 4000 are diagnosed a year, and 700 men die a year.  - Over time the number of people being diagnosed, and death rate is dropping due to increased testing.  - If you are diagnosed: 90% of men are alive after 5 years, and 90% alive after 10 years due to early treatment, and sometimes the cancer is slow growing.       Are there symptoms that can indicate prostate cancer?  Things to look out for:  - A need to urinate urgently, difficulty with getting started and weak urine stream, dribbling after finish, blood in the urine.  - However, these can be due to other ‘benign' prostate problems:  - BPH – Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy: the prostate getting larger with age, but it's not cancerous  - Prostatitis: an infection of the prostate  If you notice any of these symptoms you need to talk to your GP.     Should we be doing anything to check for prostate cancer?  - Yes. From the age of 50 years, talk to your doctor about a two-yearly prostate check.  - If you have a family history —father, brother— then you may need to start earlier at 40 years.  - The check is very simple: a blood test called a PSA and quick rectal examination to feel for the size of the prostate.     If a problem is detected what are the treatments?  - If the blood test indicates a possible problem, then more tests are done: further bloods, possible MRI scan, a biopsy of the prostate to look for cancer.  - If cancer is detected there are four main approaches:  - Watch and wait: because the cancer is early and is considered low risk, slow growing, and may not cause a problem.    - Radiotherapy to destroy the cancer.  - Prostatectomy: where an operation is preformed to remove the prostate.  - Hormone injections that shrink and control the cancer.  Like all cancers can be treated if found early: if you are 50, a man, visit your GP and discuss a prostate check!    LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is Carpal Tunnel and who gets it?  - One of the most common hand conditions.  - Pressure on something called ‘median nerve' that goes through the wrist.  - The nerve goes through a narrow ‘tunnel' (carpal tunnel) in the wrist, and when it gets compressed, you can develop symptoms.  - 1-5% of the population get it at some point. Twice as common in women as men.  - Most often seen in those between 30 and 60 years of age.  - Increased risk with pregnancy, diabetes, wrist injury, obesity, and repetitive wrist activities such as manual labour and sport.     How do you recognise it?  - People often start to notice it at night: wake up with a tingly or numb hand and have to shake the hand out. Especially prominent in the thumb, and index, and middle fingers.  - Sometimes described as electric shock, sometimes holding the steering wheel of car, holding a newspaper.  - May be described as pain, and people often get discomfort up the forearm.  - Can cause hand weakness and cause people to drop things.     How do you diagnose it?  - Your doctor will take careful history.  - Examine the wrist  - Order a nerve conduction study which shows if the nerve is being compressed.  - Sometimes an Xray or blood tests are ordered to check for any underlying condition like diabetes.       What do you do about?  - It depends on the severity.  - Often it involves avoiding activities that make it worse, resting the hand if repetitive movements make it worse.  - Using a wrist splint to keep wrist straight – especially at night to alleviate symptoms.  - If it's severe and ongoing, then refer to the orthopaedic surgeon, who do a simple operation to relieve the pressure on the nerve.    LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Ministry of Health review three years after euthanasia became legal might re-ignite debate. The Ministry is asking people to share their thoughts on the Act. It says 344 people had an assisted death in the year to March 31. General Practice NZ chair, Bryan Betty, says the Act is working as designed. But he says some groups and people still strongly oppose it, despite its rigorous safeguards. "The reason for doing a review like that is to uncover those types of issues and to see how this has been operating - and if there are any things there that we should be thinking about going forward." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One topic that is very common and can be quite distressing for patients is ‘cold sores' sometimes referred to as ‘fever blisters'. A very common presentation to the doctor!    What are cold sores?  - Small fluid filled blisters appear on the skin, often in patches.  - Usually on the lips, chin or cheeks, or nostrils.  - Sometimes can occur in the roof of the mouth or gums.  - Often start with tingling or itching. Over 48 hours blisters develop, then burst and ‘crust over', and dry out.  - Can take 2-3 weeks to heal completely.  - Occasionally you also get a temperature, sore throat, and headache.     What causes them?  - They are caused by a virus – herpes simplex virus 1.  - They can be spread through close contact – kissing, shared utensils, towels.  - More likely to spread when the blisters burst.  - The virus can hide in nerve cells and be triggered by:  - Stress, fatigue, fever, trauma, sun, or wind.     How do you treat them?  - They get better over 2-3 weeks.  - Use sunblock lip balm outside.  - Paracetamol can help the pain.  - Avoid salty food. Also, ice or warm flannels.  - You can be prescribed or buy antiviral cream from a chemist to speed up the healing.     Is there anything else I should think about?  - It's important to avoid close contact such as kissing, touching, or sharing towels when you have cold sores.  - They can recur and be triggered, so avoid trigger factors if possible – sun, stress.  - There is a natural remedy: kanuka honey-based cream shown to be effective.  - See your GP if it's not healed within 14 days, occurs near the eye, very large, or you have other issues such having chemotherapy.    LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Primary health providers say the government is short-changing GPs, whose margins are already thin, as well as their patients, whose ability to pay more for a doctor's visit is already frayed. General Practice New Zealand chair Dr Bryan Betty spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

There are calls for a review of the funding model used for General Practice, amid more price hikes for patients.   Health New Zealand is forging ahead with a 4% increase to core General Practice funding.  General Practice Chair Bryan Betty is adamant the sector needs an increase more like 7.7%.  He told Mike Hosking the reality is some practices are unviable.   Betty says we've seen that problem across the country, and it's happening every year now.   LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Men's Health Week took place in June. It's an important topic as men often consider themselves bullet proof, and think they don't need to see the doctor.    So why is men's health important?  There are some underlying statistics that are important to reflect on:  - Overseas study: men are twice as likely never to have visited the doctor. Three times as likely not to have visited GP in 5 year period. - They die 3.5 years younger, on average, than women. - They develop heart disease 10 years younger than women. - They develop diabetes younger.  It's a concern!     Why should they visit the GP?  There are hidden risks that can affect health that you won't know about until you have a regular ‘warrant of fitness' check-up:  Cholesterol:  -Increases risk of heart disease. -Only detected through a blood test.  Diabetes and blood sugar:  -Need to be checked from age of 35. -Sugars can creep up men and damage the heart, kidneys, and nervous system. -Only detected through a blood test.  Blood Pressure, the hidden killer:  - Can feel perfectly OK with raised blood pressure. - Puts pressure on the heart leading to heart attacks and increases risk stroke. - Only detected through a blood pressure check.     What other issues should men be concerned about?  The prostate:  - From the age of 50 should be seeing your doctor to discuss a prostate check. - Simple blood test and slightly uncomfortable rectal exam! - Early detection of prostate cancer leads to early cure!  Bowel cancer: - From the age of 60 - Two yearly bowel cancer screening. - Early detection of bowel cancer leads to cure!  In addition, if you have been about in the sun (especially farmers) a regular skin check for early signs of skin cancer is necessary.  If you're feeling depressed, irritable, or stressed talking to your GP is a good first step to help.     When should men we go for a check-up?  - Definitely from the age of 50 yearly check-up is important. - Prior to that 2 to 5 years from the age of 30.  With all these things early detection saves lives, and detecting problems early means major health issues can be reduced by early intervention with lifestyle, medication and occasionally specialist intervention.    LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GPs say a Government funding proposal is not enough. Health New Zealand is suggesting a 4 percent increase in GP capitation funding, the money each practice receives for each enrolled client - and letting them raise fees by just under 8 percent. The sector's warning some practices may go under. General Practice Chair Dr Bryan Betty says studies have shown GPs have been up to 20 percent under-funded in the past two decades. "All this does is go some way towards cost increases over the last year - it doesn't actually fix the underlying deficit, which is getting worse." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ADHD has been getting a lot of attention lately - with Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau, and Chloe Swarbrick going public with their diagnosis, its difficulties and treatment - especially for adults.   In NZ, 5-8% of children and adolescents being potentially affected, with 70% persisting into adulthood.  Dr Bryan Betty told Jack Tame “It's a very complex condition that affects people in different ways.”  Betty said “It's a neurodevelopment disorder – affecting people of any age, especially children.”  LISTEN ABOVE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Saturday Morning with Jack Tame Full Show Podcast for Saturday 15 June 2024, star of this year's Armageddon Expo John Barrowman joins Jack to discuss his sci-fi legacy and what it is about shows like Doctor Who that fans connect to so enduringly.  Jack's DIY endeavours continued with this week's task: the beanbag.  Kevin Milne was mightily impressed by podcasting this week, reaffirming that we are very much still in the days of quality long-form interviews. While, Dr Bryan Betty talks misconceptions of ADHD after it's recent media spotlight following the diagnosis of public figures.  Get the Saturday Morning with Jack Tame Full Show Podcast every Saturday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.  LISTEN ABOVE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever felt let down by the healthcare system? You're not alone. In this bonus episode, we dive deep into why so many are being denied specialist care, especially women, Māori, and folks in regional areas. With insights from Dr. Brian Betty, we expose the cracks in the system and discuss how we can fix them. Plus, we'll look at how our growing population is straining healthcare and why we need to plan for the future. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Duncan discusses New Zealand's healthcare crisis with Dr. Bryan Betty, revealing alarming study findings. We'll also explore the $3.9 billion pothole repair budget, preview an action-packed sports weekend with John Day, and tackle online bullying with psychologist Dougal Sutherland. Join us live across social media or catch the podcast on Rova and other platforms.  Don't forget we go live every weekday morning at 7:30  YouTube, Twitch, and Tik Tok.  All the other social, listen and watch links are here Or text "Duncan" to 3598See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're on the cusp of the flu season. One of my concerns is that I often hear from patients phrases like ‘it's just the flu!'. It's almost viewed as something we don't need to be concerned about; it's just like a cold. However, it's much more than that. It's estimated it can be responsible for up to 500 deaths a year in New Zealand, based on University of Otago research. It's more than just a cold!    What is influenza?  -It infects our nose, throat, and lungs.  -It occurs more in winter, brought in by infected people on planes from the Northern Hemisphere!  -Tends to spread with close contact indoors: coughing, sneezing, and talking to each other, or the virus lands on surfaces and we pick it up on our hands.  -Can kill up to 500 people a year.  -Especially at risk are the elderly, pregnant women, those with other illnesses like diabetes, lung and heart conditions, cancer, those under 5, and Māori and Pacific people over the age 55.     How does it differ from a cold?  -It is much more severe. It can make us very unwell and miserable, lasting up to 7 to 14 days.  -Coughs, sore throats, and sneezing can occur in both colds and flus, however a few things distinguish the flu from colds:  -The flu is often very rapid onset; colds tend to be gradual.  -In particular, unlike the common cold, the flu can cause very severe muscle aches, headaches, ‘chills' (feeling hot and cold), and fever.  -Chest discomfort and coughs can also be very severe with the flu.  -Occasionally causes diarrheal and vomiting.     Can you treat it?  -Straight answer is no. Antibiotics don't work. You're stuck with it, and we treat the symptoms.  -Using paracetamol and brufen for temperatures and muscle aches. Keeping fluids up.  -However, once you have it you have it!     How do we prevent it?  -Number one: if you have the flu don't go to work, don't spread it!  -Wash hands regularly, don't share drinks, cover mouth and nose if coughing or sneezing.  -The most important single thing is to get vaccinated. It will prevent you catching the flu. Because the virus changes every year, you'll need a fluvax once a year.    LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is the thyroid and what does it do?  -A small butterfly shaped gland at the front of your neck.  -Produces ‘thyroid hormone' which is very important in regulating the body.  -Does a range of things from: keeping us warm, to regulating heart, brain, muscles, bowels.     What happens when your thyroid slows down and becomes underactive?  -We start to get a range of symptoms affecting all parts of the body, that are often very subtle and difficult to pick up.  -In particular weight gain and tiredness and feeling cold.  -Other symptoms may be constipation, dry skin, hair loss, muscle pain, depression, cholesterol issues.     Who gets it and what are the causes?  -More common in women over 50.  -Also more common those with issues such as Type 1 Diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.  -However, anyone can develop an underactive thyroid including babies (very rare) and children.  -Most commonly caused by immune disorder called ‘Hashimoto's Disease' where body turns off the thyroid and starts to shut the thyroid down.  -Other causes include some medication, previous thyroid treatment, iodine deficiency,     How do you diagnose and treat?  -Your GP will do a simple blood test on how your thyroid is working.  -Sometimes if the changes are very small so we just monitor.  -However, if it's causing symptoms it's treated with thyroid medication to replace the missing thyroid.  -Often need to take medication for life with periodic blood tests and medication may need dose changes.    LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two drugs for type 2 diabetes are being restricted to only those already prescribed them, due to a global shortage. From Wednesday funded access to dulaglutide and liraglutide known as Trulicity and Victoza respectively will be restricted. Between December last year and March about 5000 people started taking these medicines and Pharmac says if the growing trend continued it would start to have difficulty with filling prescriptions. The drugs are used alongside metformin and help to trigger the body's feeling of fullness. General Practice New Zealand chair Dr Bryan Betty says the drugs are a "game changer" for those with type 2 diabetes and he expects Pharmac to work to resolve the situation as soon as possible. Diabetes NZ chief executive Heather Verry says there's no doubt the shortage comes from a global demand to use the drugs for weight loss. Dr Ruth Large, is chair of the New Zealand Telehealth Forum.

What is cryptosporidium and what does it do?  - It's a parasite found in the gut of infected people. Also, animals such as cats, dogs, cattle, and sheep.  - Basically, it's a nasty ‘stomach bug', if you get infected it causes a nasty stomach infection.  - Gives you painful stomach cramps, really smelly diarrhoea, and nausea.    How do you get it and can we treat it?  Infected people or animals pass it on through infected poo, we basically swallow the parasite:  - Contact with infected people or animals  - Drinking water becomes infected  - Food after food preparation with hands that are contaminated.  - Swimming in shared water such as swimming pools, paddling pools, or infected beaches, rivers.  Generally, we don't treat it, antibiotics generally don't help. We advise things such as Panadol and medication to stop stomach cramps. It's really important to keep fluid levels up so you don't become dehydrated, especially children.    What do we do to prevent it?  - It's really important not to spread it or catch it!  - The basics: don't spread it, wash hands for 20 seconds with soap and hot water then dry:  -After going to toilet -Before you prepare food. -Have contact with animals, after gardening, caring with someone with diarrhoea, or changing babies' nappies    Other thing to note: - The parasite hangs around in your body for 14 days after your symptoms clear up.  - Don't  swim in swimming pools for 14 days after an infection – you can spread it for up to two weeks!!  -Also, when signs go up at beach or river not to swim, don't. Means there's a sewage leak and you can contract cryptosporidium.  -Certainly, if you are concerned contact your general practice or medical centre.    LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is a ‘middle ear' infection?  - One of the most common infections that occur in children.  - By school age most children would have had an infection, and it becomes less common as they get older.  - An infection of the middle ear: air filled space behind the ear drum, which contains the vibrating bones of the ear we hear with.     What do we need to look out for?  - Often starts with a cold.  - Tube that drains the middle ear to the back of throat becomes blocked.  - Middle ear fills up with fluid and can become infected with viruses or bacteria.  - Symptoms include pain in the ear, temperatures, headaches, and trouble hearing.  - Babies may cry a lot, pull at their ears, stop feeding, or be irritable.  - Drum may burst and discharge fluid from the ear     How is it diagnosed?  - Your doctor will look into the ear with a magnifier called an otoscope.  - They'll look at the drum and see if it's infected behind the drum.     How do we treat it?  - Most middle ear infections will clear themselves after four days.  - Simple pain relief such as paracetamol or brufen is used for symptom control, fluids, many cases don't need antibiotics.  - With severe symptoms such as fever or vomiting, they're more likely to use antibiotics.    Where there is risk of complications:   - Those younger than 2 years, Māori/pacific children, or underlying medical conditions.     Any long term concerns?  - Recurrent infection or can develop glue ear: thick mucus that won't clear behind the drum.  - Can interfere with hearing.  - You may need to see an ear specialist to insert a grommet or drain.  - If you have hearing concerns, see your GP.    LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why is cervical screening important?  - In NZ approx. 180 to 190 women get cervical cancer every year.  - Up to 80% have not been screening.  - Cervical screening picks up changes early preventing cancer.    What is the cervix?  - Organ connects the uterus to the vagina.  - Why it's important:  - Keeps baby inside the uterus while growing during pregnancy.  - The canal through which baby passes at birth.  - Canal sperm can travel up to fertilize eggs to get pregnant.    What does a cervical smear do?  - The smear scrapes some cells from the cervix.  - The cells are looked at under a microscope for any abnormal cells, ones that could cause cancer, so they can be treated.  - It's traditionally every 3 years.  - The Problem – it's invasive to do and can be painful and off putting.    What has changed?  - A new screening test has been introduced, which can be done by a simple easy vaginal swab once every 5 years.  - Most changes that lead to cancer in cervix are caused by the HPV virus.  - The swab looks for the HPV strains that lead to cancer and do something about it.  - Swab is much easier. It's not painful and is only once every five years from age 25.  - Easily accessed through your General Practice or clinic.     One other important thing.  - There is now HPV vaccine to prevent HPV infection.  - Free for all adolescents and girls between 9 and 26.  - This stops you from contracting HPV, thus preventing the cancer altogether. - Talk to your GP or Nurse.    LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are growing calls to address the burgeoning access problem of general practice care across the country. General Practice NZ has detailed a series of solutions needed to counter the issues many across the country are experiencing. The existing Capitation funding model, in particular, is overdue a revamp to counter increased complexity, equity issues and high demand. Chair Dr Bryan Betty says people have turned towards Emergency Departments because they can't easily access community care. "We're seeing that across the country at the moment, in places where general practices are pressured, big pressures are placed on to EDs and to hospitals, and that is a big cost to the country." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

General Practice New Zealand chair Dr Bryan Betty says a new report is warning that the sector's funding and staffing model is near crisis.

Doctors are raising concern about the rise of self ordered medical tests, as a new Australian study finds they have limited usefulness for consumers. If you are willing to pay, a range of medical tests can be ordered from private laboratories without a doctor's involvement - including full blood count, cholesterol, and tests for sexually transmitted diseases. These cost anywhere from $25 to $340. Dr Bryan Betty, chair of the General Practice New Zealand, says many family doctors have noticed the trend toward self-ordered tests, but caution that without expert interpretation, they can cause unnecessary anxiety, and potentially unnecessary medical procedures. A recent Australian study has found the benefits to most consumers are questionable. But the country's largest provider of private tests says it's all about empowering patients.

Why bother with a yearly check-up?  - Prevention is better than cures.  - There are many things that we may not be aware of that we can do something about.  - In many cases it's not about now but about the future.   - Three main areas to think about: checking for cardiovascular risk factors, early detection cancer, and prevention of disease.     What things will your GP check for?  - They'll check for the ‘hidden' issues.  - Physical: look at blood pressure and weight in particular. Both can cause heart disease.  - Run some routine blood tests, in particular checking blood sugar for diabetes and cholesterol.     Why are these important?  - Rising blood pressure, sugars rising in the blood stream, and fats in the blood stream are silent. We don't know they're happening.  - Blood pressure and cholesterol left untreated can lead to heart disease and strokes down the track.  - Elevated sugars can give us a warning that we are headed for diabetes, which is treatable with changes to diet, exercise, and weight loss.     What else do we need to think about?  - Cancer screenings:  - Mammograms for early breast cancer from age 45.  - Bowel screening from the age of 60 for bowel cancer.  - Cervical screening for cervical cancer from age 25.  - In men, think about a blood test for prostate cancer from the age of 50.  - If we detect cancer early enough, we can cure it – that simple!     Any other issues?  - Being up to date with immunisations.  - For children we need to think about all those diseases we prevent with immunisation. Measles, diphtheria, whooping cough, hepatitis, pneumonia, tetanus, and meningitis are all killers, and we need to make sure our children are protected.  -For adults: a yearly flu injection, shingle vaccine at the age of 65, being up to date with Covid boosters, and discussing pneumococcal vaccine for pneumonia over the age of 65.  -These are all important in preventing disease.    LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Bryan Betty joined Jack Tame to chat about the truth behind some 'old wives tales': Whether you'll get a cold if you go outside with wet hair.  If you'll get arthritis if you crack your knuckles.  Whether you should chew your food 30 times before swallowing.  If you'll get square eyes watching too much television.  If eating Carrots will give you better eyesight.  Is the five second rule for dropped food accurate? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What issues can arise on a long haul flight?  The main complaints tend to be irritating more than anything  Becoming dehydrated – can lead to headaches, dry mouth, dry nose  Not being able to sleep, ankle swelling  Cramped conditions, especially in economy class seats!  More serious: deep vein thrombosis – leg clots due to not moving around.     How do we improve comfort?  Really important to stay hydrated - plenty of fluid.  Wear loose fitting clothes – you want to be comfortable.  Carry lip balm or nasal spray to moisten nasal passages if dry - for comfort.  Don't drink alcohol or overdrink alcohol – it can worsen dehydration, headache and interfere with sleep.     Are there issues with food and taste?  At 30,000 feet your taste buds don't' work as well and food tastes ‘bland'.  Also, your nose can dry out which affects taste.  Airlines tend to produce stronger flavoured food such as curries to compensate.  Up to 30% more sugar and salt in food to add to taste.  Don't overeat as we tend to bloat as gas forms in abdomen, which can cause abdominal discomfort.      And sleep?  Carry eye shade and ear plugs, and a neck pillow is a really good idea.  Best thing to do is work out the sleep time at your destination before you go and try and sleep at that time on the flight.  Some use melatonin, a ‘sleep hormone'     How do we avoid blood clots?  Two key things – stay hydrated and get up and move around every 3-4 hours to get blood circulating.  Failing that wiggle toes and bend knees in your seat frequently.  Some choose to wear compression of flight stockings which encourage blood to circulate.  They also reduce ankle swelling!  If you have persistent leg swelling, chest pain or SOB in weeks after a long-haul flight – see your GP!    LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Chair of General Practice New Zealand says GP capacity issues are becoming a crisis. Te Whatu Ora Health NZ says an overloaded primary healthcare system is to blame for more children turning up at hospital. Bryan Betty says a third of GPs have closed their books, but most are trying to accommodate their base with acute on-the-day appointments, where parents of sick kids can try first. "If capacity is reached or something happens where you can't get in, then you'd need to go to an after-hours medical centre or you'd need to go to an ED if you are concerned, because the prime thing is the child." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is Type 2 diabetes?  Body not able to control sugars – sugars become  in body high  Basically due to the pancreas wearing out over time not producing enough insulin or insulin becoming ineffective.  We are seeing more cases in younger people especially Māori and Pacific.     How big a problem is it and what harm to the body does it cause?  Thought to be approximately 300,000 in NZ living with type 2 diabetes.  Health system cost 2.1 billion year – 0.67% GDP!  Individual cost: increased rates renal failure, heart disease, blindness, leg amputation, if not controlled.     What are the new medications?  Diet, exercise and  weight reduction  central to treatment. Medications are needed such as metformin and insulin.    Now available two new medications:  Jardiance daily tablet: causes us to ‘pee' sugar out of the body when we urinate.  Trulicity- weekly injection: mimics a hormone that means we feel full and eat less and absorb sugar within body and can lose weight.     Why are they important?  Gives more treatment options in addition to metformin and insulin.    Major differences don't just lower sugar in body: also protect kidney from damage , and reduce chances of heart disease, and weight reduction: first time ever!  In Higher doses Trulicity the weekly injection:  has been used overseas for weight reduction ( Ozempic, Saxena New Zealand – not funded here) – has been in news  Lead  to worldwide  shortages at times that have affected New Zealand.     What should we do?  Important over age of 40 have regular blood sugar tests to see if developing problem.  Need to review regularly with GP and nurse: diet, exercise in combination with medication is important.  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is a urinary tract infection and who gets them?     -Referred to as a bladder infection or cystitis  -Bacteria gets up into bladder causing the infection  -Sometimes if untreated can go up into the kidneys – more serious infection is called pyelonephritis  -More common in women – most women will get one at some point  -Less common in men – often related to an enlarged prostate as get older     How do you recognise them?  -Burning passing urine  -Increased frequency of urination   -Sudden urgency to pass urine  -Abdominal pain  -Smelly or cloudy urine    -Children can also get urine infections: temperatures, or suddenly bed wetting at night  -Elderly: can be very difficult to diagnose.  May present with confusion or a fall.    -Often the GP or nurse will do urine test or send-off sample to the Lab.     How do we treat them?  -Antibiotics from doctor or nurse  -If its straightforward your pharmacist may be able to give you antibiotics  -Drink plenty of fluids  -You need to see a doctor if you haven't improved in three days, develop shakes, have a spiking temperature, or increasing pain     Can you Prevent them?  -Stay well hydrated, cranberry juice may help prevent them  -Post-sex voiding urine sometimes advised  -Avoid wearing tight-fitting underwear  -Make sure to wipe after bowel movements, going front to back  -Treating constipation if present, as it puts pressure on the bladder  -They can be recurrent and may need ‘preventive antibiotics.    LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What are gallstones?  Gall bladder: sits under the liver.  Stores and concentrates bile: fluid made in liver which helps digest fats.  This bile clumps together to form ‘stones': From sand to small pebbles.     Who is at risk?  10% New Zealanders have gallstones, 80% have no symptoms.  Most at risk:   Women are twice as likely as men.  Ages 20 to 60.   If you're carrying too much weight, have a family history of them, have diabetes, or experience rapid weight loss.     What are the symptoms?  80% have no symptoms.       Can be severe pain, ‘colic' - often pain in the right upper abdomen, through to your back between shoulder blades.  Often after eating a large, fatty meal.  They can cause nausea, vomiting, and indigestion. May mimic a heart attack.  If it's more severe it becomes infected or inflamed: fever, sweats, jaundice – turning yellow.     How do we diagnose?  History and exam, blood tests.  The doctor will order an ultrasound to look for stones, sometimes an MRI scan.     What do we do about them?  Avoid fatty foods, drink plenty of fluids, slow weight reduction - not rapid.  May need surgery ‘laparoscopic' keyhole surgery to remove the gallbladder.  We don't need the gallbladder – get by very well without it.  Often see ads for remedies such as lemon juice or large amounts of oil. These don't work! No evidence at all!  If you have pain in abdomen – see your GP.    LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Chair of General Practice, Dr Bryan Betty, who was part of the Covid-19 Technical Advisory Group says it's time to move on, as the rest of the world has already done. But he says no mandates doesn't mean no rules, especially in health settings such as GP practices. Betty spoke to Corin Dann.

Chair of General Practice NZ, Dr Bryan Betty says it is time to tighten up the rules on vaping.  

GPs say it is virtually impossible to get patients referred for a publicly funded ADHD assessment - and a new survey backs that up. Anyone with suspected ADHD must get an inital assessment by a psychiatrist or clinical psycholgist, while the prescribing of ritalin and other ADHD drugs can only be made by a psychiatrist. General practitioners say they're frustrated and worried by the difficulty in getting patients a assessment in the public health system, and say even those who can pay privately or have insurance, have a long wait. ADHD New Zealand has surveyed its membership, which finds that people are waiting longer - both public and private, and that only a quarter of respondents are receiving support from a psychiatrist or psychologist. Of those waiting for support, a fifth just give up. Kathryn speaks with Chair of General Practice NZ, Dr Bryan Betty, and ADHD New Zealand's chair Darrin Bull.

There's a push to increase the awareness of the speed and severity of Meningitis. Two university students are among four confirmed cases of the meningococcal disease in the Canterbury region this year. The Meningitis Foundation has been calling for a quicker roll out of free vaccines to those living in close quarters. The vaccine has just become free for 13 to 25-year-olds in their first year in large shared living situations like boarding schools, university halls of residence and jails. Some GPs say there's been an increase in interest for the vaccine, now it's free. Bryan Betty is the Medical Director of The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners. He talks to Rowan Quinn.