Supported by global charity, Radiology Across Borders, Cardiologist, Dr Faraz Pathan and Clinical Nurse Consultant, Louise Smith hosted an intensive workshop for eight GPs working with the Central Australian Aboriginal Congress that focused on both theoretical and practical skills in performing Focused Cardiac Ultrasounds (FCUS).
“FCUS is a focused and rapid ultrasound technique which allows healthcare professionals to quickly assess cardiac function, supporting physical examinations and enabling timely intervention for potentially life-threatening conditions. It’s essentially echocardiography on the run,” explains Faraz.
“Our workshop allowed us to get hands on with the GPs to help build their confidence in performing a scan. We wanted them to feel comfortable and begin their journey in mastering the ultrasound technique.”
For communities like Alice Springs, where there is a high burden of cardiovascular disease, the training is invaluable in enhancing patient care and delivering positive health outcomes.
For Faraz and Louise, the trip was a profound learning experience, leaving them both incredibly humbled.
“In my short time in Alice Springs, I learnt just how much GPs’ and staff perform fabulous work for Aboriginal communities. Accessing simple health care services is something we take for granted. These doctors are bridging the gaps in healthcare needs and providing support through building relationships with the Aboriginal people,” says Louise.
The outreach program underscores the importance of sharing medical knowledge and skills more broadly.
“Nepean Hospital and Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District is being increasingly recognised as leaders in tertiary education and training, particularly in cardiac diagnostics where there is a real commitment to learning and a dedication of evidence-based practice. We are part of a multidisciplinary team that integrates knowledge across intensive care medicine and cardiology to deliver high-quality patient care,” explains Louise.
Faraz echoes this sentiment as he lauds the proud tradition of education and outreach.
“We are really lucky to have capacity and skill in our large teaching hospital. Nepean Cardiac Diagnostics runs courses in Australia and in locations across the world to democratise cardiac ultrasound and train those who seek to learn, and by doing so, help their patients and communities,” says Faraz.
“Our unit has managed to build the largest free echocardiography education YouTube channel in Australia. If sharing our knowledge and skills can help doctors in rural and remote settings care for their communities – it’s a very proud moment for our lab.”
This outreach initiative and expertise provided by both Faraz and Louise highlights the District’s commitment to extending its expertise beyond the local community, playing a vital role in building capacity and improving healthcare outcomes for underserved populations in remote Australia.
