All Posts By

John Bond

Why You Need to Keep an Eye on Your Skin (and Get Regular Skin Checks!) By Dr Megan Kelly

By Skin

 

Australia’s known for its beautiful beaches, perfect weather, and endless days of sunshine. Sounds amazing, right? But that sun, while great for beach days, can also be a bit of a troublemaker when it comes to our skin. In fact, Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. But here’s the good news: we can prevent and catch it early by being proactive with regular skin checks. Yep, that means checking out your skin (and getting your doctor or dermatologist to do the same), so you’re ahead of the game.

Let’s dive into why regular skin checks are your skin’s best friend and how you can keep that gorgeous glow (safely, of course).

The Aussie Skin Cancer Situation

Skin cancer comes in a few flavors: basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma. Now, BCC and SCC are more common and tend to be less aggressive, but melanoma—well, that’s the one you really don’t want to mess with. Melanoma is tricky because it can spread fast, but the good news is that if you spot it early, it’s often treatable.

Australia’s sunny vibes come with a catch: lots of UV exposure. Even when you’re just hanging out in the shade, those sneaky UV rays can still cause damage. And even if you have the perfect beach tan, that sun exposure can come back to haunt you down the road. But don’t panic! Regular skin checks help catch any potential issues early, which is key to keeping things under control.

Why Regular Skin Checks Are a Big Deal

Okay, so what’s the deal with skin checks? Well, for starters, they can literally save your life. Here’s why they’re so important:

  • Early Detection is Everything
    When it comes to skin cancer, the earlier you catch it, the better. Things like new moles or any changes in your skin’s appearance might not seem like a big deal, but they could be a sign of something that needs attention. A regular check (by you or your doctor) means you can spot these changes early—when they’re much easier to treat.

Illustration Of Abcde Criteria For Skin Cancer Detection

  1. The ABCDEs of Skin Cancer
    Now, I know the alphabet isn’t everyone’s favorite thing, but this one’s pretty important when it comes to checking your moles. Doctors have a simple guide for spotting potential skin cancer, called the ABCDE rule:

    • A for Asymmetry: If one side of the mole looks different from the other, it’s time to get it checked.
    • B for Border: Uneven or jagged edges are another red flag.
    • C for Colour: Moles that are multiple colors (or look like they’re changing) are suspicious.
    • D for Diameter: If it’s bigger than a pencil eraser (that’s about 6mm), it’s worth looking at.
    • E for Evolving: If the mole changes over time, that’s a sign you need to take action.
  1. Remember, it’s all about noticing changes early, and these rules help you know what to keep an eye on.
  2. You’re in Control
    The good thing about regular skin checks is that they help you stay ahead of the game. By getting checked regularly (and checking yourself in between), you’re not just waiting for something to go wrong—you’re being proactive. Plus, your doctor can give you advice on the best sun protection practices, so you can keep your skin in tip-top shape while enjoying the Aussie outdoors.

When Should You Get a Skin Check?

Now, you’re probably wondering, “How often should I get a skin check?” Great question! While it’s a good idea for most people to do a quick skin check on themselves each month, if you’re in one of these higher-risk groups, you might want to make sure you’re seeing a professional every year:

  • If you’re fair-skinned (hello, we’re talking to all the freckled friends out there!).
  • If you’ve got a family history of skin cancer.
  • If you have lots of moles or any that look a bit out of the ordinary.
  • If you’ve spent a fair amount of time soaking up the sun or live in a high-UV area.

For everyone else, checking yourself regularly (and knowing what’s normal for you) and getting a full check once a year is a good start.

Skin Cancer Prevention Tips

While skin checks are a big part of staying on top of skin cancer, prevention is key, too. Here’s what you can do to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays:

  • Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen: You can never go wrong with SPF. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and apply it generously (don’t forget your ears, neck, and the back of your hands!). Reapply every two hours, especially if you’ve been swimming or sweating.
  • Seek shade: The sun is hottest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you can, try to stay in the shade during these hours. Your skin will thank you.
  • Wear protective clothing: Think wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and clothing with built-in UV protection. You’ll look stylish and protect your skin at the same time!
  • Avoid tanning beds: These seem to be making a come back for home use in Australia. Seriously, those things are not doing you any favors. Just don’t.

Wrapping It Up

Look, I know no one likes thinking about skin cancer—it’s definitely not the most fun topic to bring up at the beach BBQ. But the good news is that it’s mostly preventable and treatable when caught early. So, make regular skin checks part of your routine (and encourage your loved ones to do the same). The more proactive you are, the better your chances of keeping your skin happy and healthy.

And remember: your skin is with you for life, so treat it well. It’ll thank you later.

Stay safe, stay sun-smart, and keep checking those moles!

 

Written by Dr Megan Kelly January 2025

01/17/2025

Building a life you love in the perimenopause / menopause transition

By Menopause

Dr's Orders Square (4)

 

The majority of the women I see are in the perimenopause / menopause season of life. I thought I would write a few pointers that hopefully help in this often discombobulating time of one’s life. If you’re exhausted, irritable as F#@!, full of rage, apathetic, experiencing weight gain, and don’t know what to do or where to start, you are not alone! Here are 6 tips to get you started.

1. Arm yourself with knowledge

Knowledge is power. I have posted two of my favourite resources for you to look at on my instagram (@drchristinegreenwood). Two very experienced doctors to follow are Dr Louise Newson and Dr Mary Claire Haver. These women are leaders in the field and have devoted their lives to empowering others in this space. I know personally they have absolutely changed the way I practice. Read and learn about this new transition in life. Learn about the symptoms, the signs, the treatment and this will help empower you with the knowledge to make changes and decide whether certain management is right for you when you see the health professionals.

2. Consider Menopause Hormonal Therapy (MHT)

As your hormones swing in perimenopause and then steadily decline, then drop in the menopause time, your moods may wildly swing or dip into apathy and depression. You may feel intense rage, your relationships may suffer, your libido may drop, and other physical signs like hot flushes, palpitations, Genitourinary symptoms and joint pain. Many of these symptoms will respond well to MHT. Talk to your doctor about whether this is an option for you.

For the majority of women, the benefits outweigh the risks.

3. Exercise

Start to move your body. Now I know you are most likely tired, especially if you are perimenopausal, but exercise will give you energy and at this time in your life it is one of the MOST important things you can do for your health. Aim for 150 mins of cardio a week. That sounds like a lot but it’s doable if you break it down. This is as simple as three 45 mins sessions of cardiovascular exercise a week. This can look like fast walking (when it’s hard but not impossible to hold a conversation), bike riding, swimming, rowing, the list goes on. Start with walking and go from there. Choose something you enjoy, and hopefully even look forward to. If you don’t yet, you will as you form the habit! The other important thing is weight training. Building in some resistance training at least two times a week. Build those muscle ladies! Your muscle mass decreases at this time. We want to build it to maintain your metabolism and strength.

4. Diet

At this time you may feel completely worn out. And all you want to do at night sometimes is fall face first into a pile of salty chips, lucious Tim Tams, or whatever your treat of choice is. But trust me, once again you will feel SO much better if you intentionally look at your nutrition as a way to love your body. Think protein with every meal, at least 30g of fibre (I will write more about this at another time), put as many vegetables as possible into every meal, and at least two pieces of fruit a day.  Doing this will help to limit your intake of processed sugars. My motto is focus on what to add in, not what to cut out (more on this later too).

5. Avoid or cut out alcohol

I have seen SO many perimenopausal and menopausal women fall into the habit of using alcohol for a fix when they feel terrible. Slowly, it creeps in and it becomes a crutch. There is no judgement here! You are not alone. The sooner you cut it out the better! Plus, it totally disrupts your sleep. Also if you’re aiming for some weight loss, alcohol consumption is one of the worst things you can do to sabotage this. If you need help with this see a doctor, there are lots of aids and sometimes even medication that can help with this.

6. Take ownership!

At the end of the day NO ONE can take ownership of your health but you. I get it. This time of life can be one of the hardest transitions. But if you make a decision to make it a turning point in your health, it can be a really empowering and life changing space. A time where you put your health first. A time where you build on physical strength and nourishment. A time where you intentionally heal your relationships. A time where you address hormone imbalances. A time where you re-evaluate what is important in life and focus on these things. A time where you make a decision that while aging is unavoidable, aging well can be something you can control. Get into the best health physically, mentally, and emotionally, as you can possibly be.

Remember

 

I am proud of you. I believe in you. And I pray that on this journey you find a community of women to support you, the treatment you need and the strength and courage to put your health first and build a life that you love.

 

Follow Dr Greenwoods Instagram page for more information

01/16/2025

Christmas hours and alternative care arrangements

By Clinic Hours

2 3 4 5Christmas Hours and After-Hours Care at Her Medical

As the holiday season approaches, we want to ensure all our patients are aware of our Christmas closure dates and the options available for medical care during this time.

Clinic Closure Dates

Her Medical will be closed from Christmas Day and will reopen on Thursday, 2nd January. During this time, phones and emails will not be monitored, and repeat prescription requests will not be processed.

If you anticipate needing a repeat prescription or a referral over the holiday period, please ensure you organise this before the clinic closes.

What to Do in a Medical Emergency

If you experience a medical emergency during the closure period, please call 000 or visit your nearest hospital for immediate assistance. Emergency departments in the Gold Coast area include:

  • Gold Coast University Hospital
  • Robina Hospital

After-Hours Care for Non-Urgent Needs

For non-urgent medical concerns, the following after-hours services are available:

  1. Call 5575 9066:
    • This service is suitable for patients who are not acutely unwell.
    • Please note, that an upfront fee of $330 applies as this service is not bulk-billed.
  2. Local After-Hours Clinics:
    • Visit our website, Instagram, or Facebook pages under “Patient Information” or “Latest News” for a list of nearby after-hours clinics and GPs.
  3. Health Direct:
    • Call 1800 022 222 for free health advice from a registered nurse, available 24/7.
  4. National Home Doctor Service:
    • Call 13 SICK (13 7425) for bulk-billed home visits for eligible patients after hours.

Preparing for the Holidays

To avoid any disruptions, we encourage you to book appointments, organise repeat prescriptions, and address any health concerns well in advance of our closure period. Requests for repeat prescriptions, referrals, or other administrative tasks will not be processed while the clinic is closed.

Wishing You a Safe and Happy Holiday Season

From all of us at Her Medical, we thank you for your trust and support this year. We wish you a safe and joyful Christmas and a healthy New Year. We look forward to assisting you again when we reopen in January.

For any additional information, please contact us before the closure period.

12/16/2024
Dr Jessica Clarke - Her Medical Team

Dr Peter Barry: Bespoke Longevity Clinic

By Mens Health

Her Medical was honoured to briefly host Dr Peter Barry’s pop-up men’s clinics, giving our patients a glimpse into his innovative, concierge-style approach to men’s health. Now, we are excited to announce that Dr Barry is moving to his new private practice, Bespoke Longevity Clinic, located just down the road at Suite 1-63 Ferry Road, Southport.

This state-of-the-art clinic reflects Dr Barry’s commitment to longevity medicine, a proactive model of healthcare that focuses on optimising health, preventing age-related diseases, and enhancing quality of life.

What is Longevity Medicine?

Longevity medicine is a forward-thinking approach designed to support patients in living longer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives. It focuses on:

  • Personalised Health Plans: Tailored care based on genetic, lifestyle, and health factors.
  • Prevention Over Treatment: Early detection and proactive management of potential health concerns.
  • Daily Vitality: Strategies to improve energy, cognitive function, and overall well-being.
  • Cutting-Edge Techniques: Incorporating the latest advancements in diagnostics and therapies.
  • Holistic Focus: Addressing physical, mental, and emotional health for a well-rounded approach to longevity.

At Bespoke Longevity Clinic, Dr Barry will continue to offer this unique, patient-focused care, supporting men in achieving their health goals and maintaining peak performance as they age.

Contact Bespoke Longevity Clinic

If you’re interested in learning more or continuing your care with Dr Barry, you can reach his new clinic at:

Address: 63 Ferry Road, Southport

Phone: 07 5623 3310

Email: enquiries@bespokegc.com.au

https://bespokelongevity.com.au/

Supporting Men’s Health and Wellness

While Dr Barry’s time with us was brief, his impact was significant, and we are proud to support him as he begins this exciting new chapter. His work at Bespoke Longevity Clinic offers a fresh perspective on healthcare, providing men with a proactive and tailored approach to living better, longer lives.

We encourage you to explore his new practice and experience how longevity medicine can transform your approach to health and well-being.

 

11/22/2024

Dr Maree Kekeff: A New Chapter in Women’s Health

By Women's Health

At Her Medical, we have been fortunate to host the incredible Dr Maree Kekeff, whose dedication to women’s health has made her a highly respected name on the Gold Coast. Over her time with us, Dr Kekeff has exemplified the values we hold dear—compassion, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to patient care.

Now, she’s embarking on an exciting new journey, moving to her brand-new, state-of-the-art private practice just a little further down Ferry Road. The Gold Coast Breast Centre promises to deliver the same exceptional care, with a focus on empowering women to take control of their health in a welcoming and innovative space.

Supporting a Visionary in Women’s Health

We are incredibly proud to have been part of Dr Kekeff’s journey and to see her create a space that aligns so closely with her vision. The Gold Coast Breast Centre is more than a clinic; it’s a testament to female leadership in medicine and an inspiring leap forward in personalised, patient-centred care.

While we’ll miss having Dr Kekeff working from our rooms, we are thrilled to continue cheering her on as she makes this bold move. For those who wish to follow her to her new practice, the details are as follows:

Phone: 07 5623 3308
Email: admin@goldcoastbreastcentre.com.au
Address: Suite 1-63 Ferry Road, Southport

https://goldcoastbreastcentre.com.au/

A Fond Farewell, Not Goodbye

Dr Kekeff’s transition marks an exciting new chapter, and we know that her patients will continue to receive the exemplary care she is renowned for. Her Medical is honoured to have been part of her story, and we will remain her biggest supporters as she continues to make a lasting impact on women’s health in our community.

We encourage you to explore her new practice and experience the future of women’s healthcare at the Gold Coast Breast Centre.

 

11/22/2024

Women’s Health and Wellbeing for Jockeys: Navigating Unique Challenges

By Clinic Hours

 

 

 

Jockeys are some of the most resilient and disciplined athletes in the sporting world. For female jockeys, however, the demands of maintaining optimal health, strength, and endurance come with added challenges. From managing fluctuating body weight requirements to balancing energy, menstrual health, and injury recovery, it’s essential that female jockeys have access to a tailored approach to healthcare. As we approach Melbourne Cup Day—a date our clinic traditionally observes with a closure in honour of the race day excitement—we take this opportunity to share some insights on essential health considerations for female jockeys.

Weight Management and Nutrition

For jockeys, staying within strict weight limits is a job requirement, but these limits can strain women’s bodies over time, especially if weight management tactics are overly restrictive or rapid. Maintaining a healthy weight while ensuring proper nutrition can be challenging but is vital for bone density, muscle health, and overall wellbeing. We recommend working with healthcare professionals who understand these unique requirements and can help guide a balanced, sustainable approach to diet and energy needs.

Bone Health and Injury Prevention

Racing frequently exposes jockeys to high-impact risks, and female athletes may be particularly prone to conditions like osteoporosis if they don’t receive proper nutrition and care. Building and preserving bone density through a balanced intake of calcium and vitamin D is crucial, as is managing the risks associated with prolonged weight loss. Injury prevention through strength training, regular health checks, and tailored recovery plans are essential steps for every jockey.

Hormonal Health and the Menstrual Cycle

Balancing the physical demands of racing with menstrual health is a unique challenge faced by female jockeys. Intense physical activity can disrupt menstrual cycles, impacting hormone levels and overall health. For female jockeys experiencing irregularities, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide guidance on managing menstrual health while meeting training and competition goals. Supporting hormonal balance, managing stress, and allowing for adequate rest can help promote a regular cycle, vital for long-term wellbeing.

Mental Health and Resilience

Female jockeys often experience significant pressure both physically and mentally, making mental health support a key component of overall wellness. Anxiety, stress, and self-esteem issues can arise when managing body image and performance expectations. Finding mental health support tailored to athletes can help female jockeys build resilience, manage stress, and maintain a positive outlook in a competitive environment.

Why Her Medical Stands By Women in Every Field

At Her Medical, we’re dedicated to supporting women in all walks of life, whether in high-stakes sports like horse racing or managing the unique demands of their personal health journeys. Our clinic traditionally observes Melbourne Cup Day with a closure from 11.00am, aligning with the excitement and appreciation of racing. However, we remain committed to providing a complete range of services and guidance to female athletes like jockeys year-round.

For all women involved in high-intensity sports, prioritising comprehensive healthcare is vital. Her Medical is here to provide personalised, evidence-based advice and compassionate care to help female jockeys thrive—both on and off the track.

11/05/2024

Improving Patient Care: Hands-On IUD Insertion Training for Our Skilled Doctors

By IUD

 

 

Introduction: We’re committed to providing our patients with exceptional, compassionate healthcare. As part of this commitment, our skilled doctors are continually honing their expertise and knowledge through advanced training programs. We are excited to announce that our doctors will be participating in a specialised hands-on IUD (Intrauterine Device) Insertion Technique Training program. This training is designed to refine their skills in one of the most effective forms of long-term birth control, enabling them to deliver even better care to our patients.

Why IUD Training Matters: IUDs are a highly effective and safe form of contraception, with benefits such as low maintenance and long-lasting results. However, the success and comfort of an IUD insertion are heavily reliant on the skill and expertise of the provider. While our doctors already possess extensive experience in IUD insertion, this hands-on training will enable them to refine their techniques, ultimately enhancing patient comfort and satisfaction.

What Our Doctors Will Learn: During this intensive training program, our doctors will work with expert trainers and utilise real-time feedback to improve their technical skills in IUD insertion. They will review:

  • Proper patient positioning and preparation
  • Selection of the most suitable IUD based on patient needs
  • Pain management techniques
  • Step-by-step insertion procedures with a focus on precision
  • Strategies for handling challenges that may arise during the insertion process

Benefits for Our Patients: This training ensures that our doctors stay at the forefront of gynecological care. Patients will benefit from:

  • Reduced discomfort during and after the procedure
  • Greater confidence in choosing IUDs as a contraceptive option
  • A smoother, more supportive clinical experience

Commitment to Continuous Improvement: We believe in the power of continuous learning to advance healthcare. By investing in specialized training like this, we empower our doctors to improve their practice, ultimately benefiting each patient they serve. We are excited to see the positive impact this training will have on patient care and outcomes within our community.

Conclusion: This hands-on IUD Insertion Technique Training is just one of the many ways our practice demonstrates its commitment to excellence in women’s health. We look forward to sharing the benefits of this program with our patients and continuing to provide high-quality, compassionate care tailored to each individual’s needs.

Thank you for trusting us with your care!

11/01/2024

Her Medical: Dr. Donna Tanchev’s Vision for Women’s Healthcare on the Gold Coast

By Team
After seven years in general practice, Bond University Medicine graduate Dr. Donna Tanchev realized she wanted more than traditional healthcare settings offered. She envisioned a clinic that prioritized women’s unique health needs, so in October 2021, she launched Her Medical in Bundall on the Gold Coast with her brother, Dennis Tanchev, a Bond Business graduate.

Dennis, a property developer, led the search for an ideal location and managed construction, working closely with Dr. Tanchev and an architect to bring her vision to life. Together, they built a women-centered clinic staffed with experts across medicine and allied health, creating a trusted space for holistic, patient-focused care.

Dr. Tanchev’s journey showcases the impact of aligning healthcare with patients’ experiences and needs. Learn more about her inspiring story in this Bond University article.

10/29/2024

Pink Ribbon Breakfast Partnership

By World Health Calendar Dates

 

Join Us for the Pink Ribbon Breakfast at Her Medical: Supporting Breast Cancer Awareness

Her Medical is honored to partner with the Breast Centre Gold Coast to host a Pink Ribbon Breakfast fundraiser on Monday, October 14th at 8:00 AM. This special event is dedicated to raising awareness and funds in support of breast cancer research, treatment, and support services. Together, we have set a fundraising goal of $2,000, and we invite you to join us in making a difference!

Why the Pink Ribbon Breakfast Matters Breast cancer affects countless women and their families every year, making awareness, early detection, and support services more critical than ever. The Pink Ribbon Breakfast is more than just a meal—it’s a chance for our community to come together in solidarity, support those facing breast cancer, and contribute to vital research and care.

At Her Medical, we believe in the power of community and compassion. By hosting this breakfast in partnership with Breast Centre Gold Coast, we hope to provide not only a space for raising funds but also a place where survivors, supporters, and families can connect, share, and find strength together.

Event Details:

  • Date: Monday, October 14th, 2024
  • Time: 8:00 AM
  • Location: Her Medical, Ferry Road
  • Fundraising Target: $2,000

How You Can Make a Difference Whether you’re able to join us in person or support from afar, there are many ways to get involved in the Pink Ribbon Breakfast:

  1. Attend the Breakfast: Join us on October 14th to enjoy breakfast and show your support in person.
  2. Donate: Can’t make it to the event? You can still make a donation online to help us reach our $2,000 goal.
  3. Spread the Word: Share our event on social media and encourage others to join in or donate. Every bit of support helps us get closer to our target!

Why Your Support Matters Every dollar raised through the Pink Ribbon Breakfast helps fund life-saving research, patient care, and support services for those affected by breast cancer. Your contribution directly impacts the lives of women in our community, ensuring they have access to the care and resources they need during their treatment journey.

By joining us at this breakfast, you’re not just helping to raise funds—you’re raising hope. You’re showing the women in your life that their fight matters, that they are not alone, and that together, we can make a difference.

Join Us in Making an Impact We can’t wait to welcome you to the Pink Ribbon Breakfast at Her Medical. Let’s gather together to honor survivors, support those currently facing breast cancer, and remember those we’ve lost to this disease. Let’s work together to reach our $2,000 goal and make a lasting impact in the fight against breast cancer.

For more information or to RSVP, please contact our team or visit our website. We look forward to sharing this special morning with you!

#HerMedical #PinkRibbonBreakfast #BreastCentreGoldCoast #BreastCancerAwareness #Fundraiser #CommunitySupport #HopeForACure

10/11/2024