West Australian General Practitioners are completing a new accredited course designed to enhance their skills in recognising, diagnosing and treating depression and suicidality.
The course is commissioned by the WA Primary Health Alliance (WAPHA) and developed by the Rural Clinical School of WA (RCSWA) Regional Training Hubs, in partnership with the Suicide Prevention and Resilience Research Centre (SPARRC) of UWA. GPs are guided through six online modules and are invited to attend one of 36 rural and Perth-based workshops.
The project is led by rural psychiatrist Dr Mathew Coleman and guided by a reference group of GP medical educators from RCSWA, psychiatrists, psychologists, an Aboriginal community cultural specialist, and people with lived experience.
Jacqui Jennings, WAPHA Suicide Prevention Lead for Country South, said the unique structure of the course is informed by the internationally recognized European Alliance Against Depression (EAAD) four-pillar framework.
"The first pillar is all about improving care for people with mild to moderate depression, aiming to prevent suicidal behaviour—this is where GPs can make a significant difference," Ms Jennings said.
Dr Mathew Coleman, RCSWA Lead Psychiatrist, said rural GPs are incredibly well-placed to deliver support and education.
"Our rural GPs are not only excellent clinicians, they’re also expert educators," he said.
"They work in some of the toughest environments with limited resources, so their skills are second to none. This course builds on those skills using real-life case discussions, helping GPs refine their mental health care strategies."
Image: Psychiatrist Dr Mathew Coleman and Karratha GP Dr Ashley Sood.
The collaborative initiative has ensured all online modules are fit-for-purpose and address the real challenges faced in everyday practice. They also offer a comprehensive and impactful approach to managing depression and suicidality in primary care.
Modules include:
1. Recognition and assessment of depression
2. Interventions for effective treatment
3. Suicidality, suicide risk assessment and prevention
4. Groups requiring special consideration
5. GP wellbeing and supports
6. Practice resources, clinical practice guidelines, and local resources
All localised face-to-face workshops are facilitated by a GP and a psychiatrist, ensuring a blend of practical knowledge and clinical insight.
Dr Susannah Warwick, a Rural Generalist based in Derby, recently completed the online modules and workshop and was impressed by the practical and engaging content.
"The pre-workshop modules were informative and up-to-date, while the workshop itself was a fantastic opportunity to connect with other health professionals in my area. We discussed real challenges we face in practice, and I left feeling more equipped to help my patients,” Dr Warwick said.
Geraldton-based GP Dr Pippin Holmes facilitated a recent workshop in the town and said it was great having so many engaged colleagues share experiences and clinical scenarios on this important topic.
“I think even the most experienced GPs walked away with a handful of tips and tricks to support their ongoing practice,” Dr Holmes said.
Dr Ashley Sood, a GP at Sonic HealthPlus Karratha GP Super Clinic, thanked Dr Coleman for presenting the program in the Pilbara and across rural WA.
"Thank you Dr Coleman and project partners for creating the easy access modules with valuable resources. This is an excellent source of education which appeals to all those working in GP and Mental Health,” Dr Sood said.
A collaborative approach for better patient care
This GP course is part of a larger movement to improve mental health care across WA, supported by the Australian Government’s Targeted Initiatives for Suicide Prevention (TRISP) funding. It is also backed by a host of leading organisations including the UWA Suicide Prevention and Resilience Research Centre (SPARRC), Rural Health West, Royal Australian College of General Practice (RACGP), and the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM).
If you are a GP looking to enhance your skills in depression management and suicidality, then take advantage of this free learning and CPD opportunity. Enrol today and choose a workshop near you: forms.rcswa.edu.au/forms/gp.registration
For more information, contact [email protected].