Addressing Intimate Partner Violence: A Conversation with Dr. Alison Creagh on The Good GP

In this episode of The Good GP, host Dr Sean Stevens is joined by Dr Alison Creagh, a GP specialising in women's health and sexual and reproductive health, with over 20 years of experience in this field. Alison sheds light on the issue of intimate partner violence and its impact on the health of those affected, particularly women. She discusses how intimate partner violence differs from domestic violence and emphasises the importance of GPs in addressing this prevalent issue. Delving into why patients may be reluctant to discuss intimate partner violence with their GPs and offers insights into how GPs can effectively broach this sensitive topic with their patients. Alison provides practical guidance on identifying potential signs of intimate partner violence and outlines gentle and effective approaches for GPs to initiate conversations with their patients. Furthermore, Alison shares valuable resources and support services available to GPs and patients dealing with intimate partner violence, emphasising the need for confidentiality and sensitivity in handling such cases. Concluding with the discussion on additional learning opportunities and resources for GPs to further their understanding and approach in addressing intimate partner violence. Resources for Getting Help on Intimate Partner Violence across Australia: National 1800 RESPECT Counselling, information and referral for people experiencing abuse, friends and family and health professionals. 1800 737 732 MensLine Australia For men with concerns about abuse, including those who are abusive. 1300 789 978 White Ribbon Lists national helplines available according to needs. whiteribbon.org.au/helplines ACT Domestic Violence Crisis Service 02 6280 0900 NSW NSW Domestic Violence Line Counselling and referrals for women experiencing DV 1800 656 463

NSW Department Communities and Justice Online information source, with quick exit buttons https://dcj.nsw.gov.au/children-and-families/family-domestic-and-sexual-violence.html

Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Services Provide information, advocacy and referrals for women and children, and support accessing restraining orders legalaid.nsw.gov.au/about-us/our-partners/womens-domestic-violence-court-advocacy-program

NT Domestic, family and sexual violence page from NT government Lists local support services according to region nt.gov.au/law/crime/domestic-family-and-sexual-violence/get-help-for-domestic-family-and-sexual-violence

QLD DVConnect Womensline Support, accommodation, counselling and referrals for women experiencing family or domestic violence 1800 811 811

DVConnect Mensline Support, counselling and referrals for men affected 1800 600 636

Government Domestic & Family Violence page Information about services available qld.gov.au/community/getting-support-health-social-issue/support-victims-abuse/domestic-family-violence

Domestic Violence Prevention Centre Counselling, practical support, safety planning and referrals 07 5532 9000

SA Domestic and family violence & sexual assault support services Listings of supports available for specific issues sa.gov.au/topics/family-and-community/safety-and-health/domestic-violence-and-sexual-assault/support-services

Domestic Violence Crisis Line Crisis counselling, support and accommodation referrals 1800 800 098

TAS Family Violence Counselling and Support Service Information, support, safety planning, assistance with police, referrals 1800 608...