Time is running out for applications for one-off CPD grants of up to $5,000 to support individual specialists living and working in RRMA classified Remote Zones 1 and 2.

Please click here to access a copy of the Application Form and Guidelines along with a comprehensive list of towns and regions which fall under Remote Zones 1 and 2. Applications close 5pm January 31st, 2008 and require the appropriate Specialist Medical Colleges' endorsement.

In rural hospitals, the preferred method of treatment for severe neurotrauma is transportation to the nearest neurosurgical unit at a city hospital for definitive care. However, when a case is particularly serious and requiring immediate surgical intervention or, where difficulties in transporting a patient arise, the rural surgeon must take action to save a life.

In an effort to provide assistance to rural surgeons facing this situation, the SSRS has funded the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons to teach rural surgeons to provide effective early-management of severe neurotrauma using equipment commonly found in their hospitals. The Program has been developed around a publication produced by the College, in conjunction with the Neurosurgical Society of Australasia, titled ‘The Management of Acute Neurotrauma in Rural and Remote Locations’.

The first of four workshops was held in November 2007 and was a great success. Approximately 20 rural surgeons from around Australia attended the day-long workshop in Adelaide. Under the guidance of experienced neurosurgeons, Ms Marianne Vonau and Mr Glenn McCulloch, participants were schooled in assessing head injury, managing different types of neurotrauma and performing a range of neurosurgical procedures.

Two more workshops have been confirmed for 2008; Brisbane on 12th April and Melbourne on 28th June. For more information, please contact Bree on 03 9276 7440 or go to Events on the SSRS website.

The National Forum on Safety and Quality in Health Care is now calling for abstracts on the conference website.

Many past and current SSRS Projects have had a significant safety and quality or clinical practice improvement focus. This major national event will provide opportunities to share experiences, challenges and successes that have driven the quality and safety agenda in the Australian health care environment.

For more information, please contact Annabel Holliss (aholliss@sapmea.asn.au) or visit the National Forum on Safety and Quality in Health Care website www.sapmea.asn.au/forumsqhc2008

Please note that submissions close on Monday 3rd March, 2008.