NB Hot Topics Podcast

Explore the complex factors that lead patients to stop taking antidepressants, shedding light on their experiences and the stigma they face. Discover how effective communication between clinicians and patients can significantly enhance the discontinuation process. Dive into innovative strategies for managing persistent symptoms in healthcare and take a deep look at the trends in cardiovascular disease in the UK over the past twenty years, revealing both progress and persistent challenges.

Welcome to the Hot Topics Podcast from NB Medical with Dr Neal Tucker. It's election time but we're going to put aside politics and focus on the latest medical research! In this episode, we look at an important BJGP paper highlighting the rates of follow-up after a significant asthma attack, a paper in the Journal of Infection showing the high rates of second antibiotic prescription in ongoing cough, and a RCT in JAMA examining if, as suggested by observational data, aspirin can truly prevent recurrence or metastasis of breast cancer.ReferencesBJGP Post-hospitalisation asthma management in primary careBJGP  Editorial Asthma Deaths in ChildrenJ of Infection Repeat Antibiotics for CougheCancer Aspirin for CancerJAMA Aspiring & Breast Cancer Recurrencewww.nbmedical.com/podcast

The podcast dives into the impact of GP workforce shortages on patient life expectancy and health inequalities. It discusses the role of Primary Care Networks in mitigating these issues. Consistency in patient care is examined, revealing its importance in managing chronic illnesses like diabetes. The effectiveness of SGLT2 inhibitors as a treatment option after metformin is also scrutinized, highlighting the need for better-informed healthcare policies. Get ready for a blend of humor and insightful analysis on crucial healthcare topics!

Head of Improving Care at Prostate Cancer UK and a GP discuss the effectiveness of digital rectal exams for prostate cancer screening, along with the implications of atrial fibrillation and hypertension on future cardiac events. They explore the limitations of DRE in detecting prostate cancer and the shift towards MRI for more accurate diagnosis.

Welcome back to the Hot Topics podcast from NB Medical with host Dr Neal Tucker. In this episode, we start by thinking about the news. Firstly, the overwhelming consensus from GPs in England to not support the imposed contract. Secondly, the ongoing discussion around physician associates in general practice, where we touch on an interesting report from South Mississippi around the costs and other outcomes of non-doctor-led primary care. Thirdly, NHS patient satisfaction - is important to take note but why does staff satisfaction never hit the headlines?In research, we look at two papers. First, the rate of familial hypercholesterolaemia coded in practices - how far are we away from what we should expect? And in those with a diagnosis, how good are we at optimally treating them? Second, a paper on which interventions might help people maintain their independence. After an estimated £1.15 billion pounds of research in this area, what does this new systematic review and network meta-analysis tell us?ReferencesAMA Report on PA/NA from South MississippiNHS Staff Survery ResultsBJGP Familial Hypercholesterolaemia rates in GPNICE Guideline FHSimon Broome Diagnostic Criteria for FHBMJ Community Interventions to Maintain Independencewww.nbmedical.com/podcast

Welcome back to the Hot Topics podcast from NB Medical with Dr Neal Tucker. In this episode we think about another year of imposed GP contract on practices in England, the BMA response and where it may lead. In research, we have three fascinating new papers. Firstly, a paper examining how to maintain weight loss after a low-calorie diet – is structured exercise, liraglutide or both better than usual care? Secondly, in the BMJ a systematic review exploring whether exercise should be considered a genuine treatment for depression. And finally, in the NEJM, a study looking at the link between microplastics in carotid arterial plaques and subsequent risk of cardiac vascular events (hint: it’s not good news…).ReferencesBMA GP Contract Changes 2024/25Pulse EditorialLancet Discovery Science paper on weight loss maintenanceWeight maintenance author interviewBMJ Exercise and DepressionNEJM Micro/nanoplastics in your arteriesNEJM Microplastics editorialwww.nbmedical.com/podcast

Welcome back to the Hot Topics podcast from NB Medical with Dr Neal Tucker. In this episode, we think about the pay offer for practices in England, a new King’s Fund report on the under-funding of primary care for three decades, and the introduction of Pharmacy First. In new research, we have two papers. First, in the BMJ, can an online combined exercise and psychological programme improve quality of life for patients struggling after hospitalisation with covid? Second, in JAMA, can serum urate levels help predict future flares of gout and guide us on who might benefit the most from urate-lowering therapyReferencesKings Fund Report on Primary CareBMJ Post-covid-19 syndrome and online programmeJAMA Serum urate and recurrent goutwww.nbmedical.com/podcast

Welcome back to the Hot Topics podcast from NB Medical with Dr Neal Tucker. In this episode, we consider the current state of general practice in the UK and what lessons the countries can learn from each other. We examine a new paper in the BJGP on how patients feel about general practice in Scotland since the introduction of the 2018 GP contract. Is it meeting patient and policymaker goals? In other research, we see what lessons a new paper in JAMA on weight loss and cancer association can tell us about a seemingly obvious connection, and from the NEJM what effect testosterone replacement for hypogonadism has on men's fracture risk.ReferencesBJGP Patient experiences of Scottish GP paperBJGP Family physician's moral distress when managing health inequalitiesJAMA Cancer diagnoses after weight lossNEJM Testosterone replacement for hypogonadism and fracture riskwww.nbmedical.com/podcast

Welcome to the Christmas Hot Topics Podcast from NB Medical with Dr Neal Tucker. It’s time for a bit of light-hearted festive fun so if you’ve finished signing all your scripts for Christmas then join us for a discussion with Dr Stephen Bradley and Dr Alice Harper about “Great Expectations: GPs estimations of time required to deliver BMJ’s 10minute consultations”.This new paper explores how long it REALLY takes to do everything that’s recommended in clinical guidance. If you’ve ever felt like there just isn’t enough time in your general practice day, this might explain it, and you are not the only one.Merry Christmas everyone, see you in the New Year. NealReferencesGreat Expectations: GPs estimations of time required to deliver BMJ’s 10minute consultationsThe Health Foundation: Identifying Operational Failures in General PracticeBMJ Guidelines should consider clinicians time needed to treatwww.nbmedical.com/podcast

Prof. Hazel Everitt, a GP and lead author on a significant study regarding amitriptyline for IBS, joins the discussion. She shares insights into how low-dose amitriptyline can effectively manage IBS symptoms. The conversation also dives into the controversial use of methotrexate for hand osteoarthritis, revealing the complexities of pain management. Additionally, they explore a patient information leaflet aimed at alleviating lower urinary tract symptoms and whether such resources can be more beneficial than traditional medications. Empowering patients remains a key focus.