No abstract

Reducing inappropriate supply and demand for POAs while maximising their benefits and minimising their harms may improve health outcomes.

No abstract

Fellows have not incorporated computers into their consulting rooms over which they have control. This is in contrast to general practitioners who have embraced computers after the provision of various incentives. The rate of use of computers by physicians for electronic prescribing in consulting rooms (11%) is very low in comparison with general practitioners (98%). One reason may be that physicians work in multiple locations whereas general practitioners are more likely to work from one location.

RACP Guidelines on ethical guidance for relating to the pharmaceutical industry have not been used by most physicians, and very few had read or referred to the Guidelines. Reliance on 'previous' experience, opinions of peers and 'value to patients' had most influence on attitudes and behaviours in interactions with industry. Many physicians felt uncomfortable and embarrassed about interactions with industry, especially varying levels of dependence on industry for resources.