HealthCert Insights – A Podcast for Doctors, Nurses and Healthcare Professionals

A new mRNA vaccine for advanced melanoma is generating significant interest, but what does it actually mean for patients?

In the latest episode of Life by a Thousand Cuts, A/Prof Tony Dicker examines the recent trial of Moderna’s personalised mRNA vaccine, intismeran, in combination with pembrolizumab. He explains how the treatment is designed around the individual mutations in a patient’s melanoma, the early evidence for improved recurrence-free survival, and some of the practical challenges involved in producing a personalised vaccine.

For GPs, the key distinction is that this is not a vaccine to prevent melanoma. Rather, it is an emerging treatment approach for patients who already have advanced melanoma, and one that patients may increasingly ask about as more results receive media attention.

Prefer a visual format? Watch this podcast here.

 

Next steps in your learning journey

🎓 Micro-Courses in Skin Cancer
Explore short, single-topic CPD modules for focused learning in skin cancer medicine and surgery. Complete in less than 10 hours from only $95.
➡️ Browse Micro-Courses >

🎓 Certificate Courses in Skin Cancer
Explore our university-assured, structured pathway to elevate your knowledge in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer.
➡️ Explore full program >

🎓 HealthCert 365 subscription
Prefer flexible learning across many topics? Access 4,000+ CPD hours on-demand with HealthCert 365 — anytime, any topic, one flat annual fee.
➡️ Discover HealthCert 365 >

Life by a Thousand Cuts 

This podcast series is designed to help you enhance your clinical decision-making, procedural skills, and confidence in skin cancer management. Focus on real-world cases, surgical techniques and tips, journal article reviews, diagnostic and management insights, and guest interviews with GPs and specialists.

Heavy menstrual bleeding is a common presentation in general practice and can have a significant impact on quality of life — and patients are often looking for clear, practical advice.

GPs are often helping patients navigate a range of management options and supporting them to make informed decisions that align with their preferences and goals. This podcast episode with Dr Simone Gonzo focuses on one aspect of that conversation: how to discuss intrauterine systems with patients, address common questions and misconceptions, and support shared decision-making in everyday practice.

What you will learn

Dr Simone Gonzo shares insights into how to talk to your patients about intrauterine systems, including practical counselling tips for general practice.

• Patient-centred counselling: Starting with the patient’s goals, concerns, fertility plans, and expectations when discussing an LNG-IUD.
• Assessing suitability: Key history, examination, investigations, and clinical considerations before recommending an LNG-IUD for heavy menstrual bleeding.
• Explaining benefits and alternatives: How to communicate the benefits of the 52 mg LNG-IUD alongside other medical and procedural treatment options.
• Setting realistic bleeding expectations: What patients can expect during the first few months, including irregular or prolonged bleeding and the timeframe for assessing treatment benefit.
• Preparing patients for insertion: How to explain the procedure honestly, discuss pain and analgesia options, and provide trauma-informed care.
• Discussing risks and warning symptoms: Counselling around expulsion, malposition, perforation, infection, pregnancy, and symptoms requiring assessment.
• Managing concerns after insertion: A structured approach to assessing persistent or new bleeding, pain, absent strings, or concerns that the IUD is “not working”.
• Follow-up and shared decision-making: Reviewing treatment goals, providing clear safety-netting and follow-up, documenting counselling, and supporting patients who choose removal.

Watch the full video podcast here.

 

WATCH RELATED WEBINAR

Heavy menstrual bleeding — A guide for GPs

Our recent webinar with Dr Simone Gonzo explored the assessment and management of heavy menstrual bleeding in general practice.

Drawing on the Australian Heavy Menstrual Bleeding Clinical Care Standard, this session provided a structured approach to history-taking, investigation, medical management, and shared decision-making, including when to consider referral for intrauterine system insertion.

👉 Watch webinar replay >

 

Next steps in your learning journey

🎓 Certificate Courses
Deep-dive into a university-assured, structured pathway from foundation to subspecialisation in Women's Health.
➡️ Explore Certificate Courses >

🎓 Short Courses
Explore 400+ short, focused, single-topic CPD courses — and learn exactly what you need, when you need it. Complete in less than 10 hours.
➡️ Browse Short Courses >

🎓 IUD workshops
Gain an introduction to the insertion of intrauterine devices as a reversible contraceptive option for female patients. One-day advanced workshop providing hands-on practise on simulated models under expert supervision.
➡️ See workshop dates & locations >

Heavy menstrual bleeding affects approximately one in four women of reproductive age, yet many patients remain undiagnosed, undertreated, or unaware that effective treatment options exist.

In this free webinar, Dr Simone Gonzo explores the assessment and management of heavy menstrual bleeding in general practice.

What you will learn

Drawing on the Australian Heavy Menstrual Bleeding Clinical Care Standard, this session provides a structured approach to history-taking, investigation, medical management, and shared decision-making, including when to consider referral for intrauterine system insertion.

Designed for busy GPs, the webinar provides practical strategies you can apply immediately in the consultation room to support women experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding.

Delivered in collaboration with Bayer Australia^, this session will teach you how to:

• Evaluate treatment options for heavy menstrual bleeding from adolescence to menopause, including hormonal and non-hormonal treatments, procedural interventions, intrauterine systems and hysterectomy.
• Plan a counselling approach that supports shared decision-making between doctor and patient considering all treatment options for heavy menstrual bleeding.

The webinar includes Q&A and case discussions.

^ This activity has been developed independently by HealthCert Education with the support of an unconditional educational grant from Bayer Australia. Bayer has had no editorial input into the content.

Watch the webinar here. 

 

Access a free women's health course

As an RACGP/ACRRM-accredited education provider, we're required to evaluate our accredited activities, and we would really appreciate your feedback on this webinar.  The evaluation takes just a few minutes and helps us understand what you took away from the session and how we can continue improving our education.

As a thank-you for completing the evaluation, you'll receive complimentary enrolment in a women's health short course of your choice, valued up to $295.

👉 Complete the evaluation >

 

Next steps in your learning journey

🎓 Certificate Courses
Deep-dive into a university-assured, structured pathway from foundation to subspecialisation in Women's Health.
➡️ Explore Certificate Courses >

🎓 Short Courses
Explore 400+ short, focused, single-topic CPD courses — and learn exactly what you need, when you need it. Complete in less than 10 hours.
➡️ Browse Short Courses >

🎓 HealthCert 365 
Prefer flexible learning across many topics? Access 4,000+ CPD hours on-demand with HealthCert 365 — any topic, any time, one flat annual fee.
➡️ Try 7 days free >

For clinicians working in aesthetic medicine, expanding your skills can open up new opportunities while also strengthening the care you provide to patients.

In this episode of The Aesthetic Shift podcast, NP Kelly Beasy chats with Emma Aylward, a nurse, aesthetic clinician, and clinic owner, about her decision to add dermoscopy and skin cancer knowledge to her skill set.

Emma shares how learning dermoscopy has changed the way she approaches consultations, particularly when treating skin with lasers and other modalities. They discuss the importance of recognising suspicious lesions, documenting changes, knowing when to refer patients for further assessment, and using regular patient contact as an opportunity to keep an eye on their skin.

This conversation also explores the realities of upskilling while running a busy clinic, managing family commitments, and finding learning opportunities that fit around work. For Emma, following her curiosity and passion for skin has helped shape the direction of her growing clinic.

Listen to the episode to hear Emma and Kelly discuss why broadening your clinical knowledge can benefit your patients, your professional development, and your practice.

Prefer a visual format? Watch this podcast here.

Next steps in your learning journey

🎓 Short Courses in Aesthetic Medicine
Explore single-topic CPD courses in focused areas of cosmetic medicine for GPs and nurses. Complete in less than 10 hours, from $195.
➡️ Browse Short Courses >

🎓 Certificate Courses in Aesthetic Medicine
Dive deeper with our university-assured, structured Professional Diploma pathway to elevate your skills in primary care aesthetic medicine.
➡️  Explore Certificate program >

 🎓 HealthCert 365 subscription
Prefer flexible learning across many topics? Access 4,000+ CPD hours on-demand with HealthCert 365 — anytime, any topic, one flat annual fee.
➡️ Discover HealthCert 365 > 

Starting a cosmetic clinic involves far more than choosing a treatment menu and opening the doors. Part one of this two-part series on The Aesthetic Shift podcast explored the key considerations before taking the leap. In this second instalment, Kelly Beasy (HealthCert educator, nurse practitioner, and clinic owner) takes a look at what comes next.

From developing a business plan and defining your target demographic to choosing a location, building your brand and navigating marketing requirements, there are many moving parts to consider. This episode discusses the importance of starting small, managing inventory and expenses carefully, and knowing when it makes sense to invest in additional treatments, devices, or staff.

Just as importantly, building a successful clinic is about building relationships. Creating a positive patient experience, developing a professional network, and establishing a loyal client base can all contribute to sustainable growth.

Kelly shares practical insights drawn from her own experience of building and running a cosmetic clinic, including some of the easily overlooked details that can make a difference to day-to-day operations.

Tune in for Kelly’s advice on taking your cosmetic clinic from idea to reality.

Prefer a visual format? Watch this podcast here.

Missed part one? Catch up here.

Next steps in your learning journey

🎓 Short Courses in Aesthetic Medicine
Explore single-topic CPD courses in focused areas of cosmetic medicine for GPs and nurses. Complete in less than 10 hours, from $195.
➡️ Browse Short Courses >

🎓 Certificate Courses in Aesthetic Medicine
Dive deeper with our university-assured, structured Professional Diploma pathway to elevate your skills in primary care aesthetic medicine.
➡️  Explore Certificate program >

 🎓 HealthCert 365 subscription
Prefer flexible learning across many topics? Access 4,000+ CPD hours on-demand with HealthCert 365 — anytime, any topic, one flat annual fee.
➡️ Discover HealthCert 365 > 

 

In this HealthCert GP Update, Dr Simone Gonzo examines the evolving understanding of Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) and what it means for primary care — providing a clear, practical overview tailored for busy GPs.

What you will learn

Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS), formerly known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), is one of the most common endocrine disorders encountered in general practice, yet its presentation and long-term health implications can be highly variable.

From menstrual irregularities and infertility to insulin resistance, cardiovascular risk and mental health concerns, effective management requires a holistic and lifelong approach.

Drawing on current guidelines and real-world clinical scenarios, this HealthCert GP Update explores how to confidently diagnose PMOS, identify associated comorbidities, and develop management plans tailored to each patient's stage of life.

Dr Simone Gonzo guides you through how to:

• Diagnose PMOS using current diagnostic criteria while distinguishing it from other endocrine conditions.
• Investigate metabolic, reproductive, and psychological comorbidities to support comprehensive patient care.
• Develop evidence-based management plans incorporating lifestyle interventions, pharmacotherapy, and appropriate referral pathways.
• Support patients through different life stages, from adolescence and fertility planning to menopause and long-term cardiometabolic health.

Watch the webinar here. 

Next steps in your learning journey

🎓 Certificate Courses
Deep-dive into a university-assured, structured Certificate pathway from foundation to subspecialisation, across 20+ special interest fields.
➡️ Explore Certificate Courses >

🎓 Short Courses
Explore 400+ short, focused, single-topic CPD courses — and learn exactly what you need, when you need it. Complete in less than 10 hours from $195.
➡️ Browse Short Courses >

🎓 HealthCert 365 subscription
Prefer flexible learning across many topics? Access 4,000+ CPD hours on-demand with HealthCert 365 — anytime, any topic, one flat annual fee.
➡️ Discover HealthCert 365 >

What happens when a GP and dermatologist work side by side? The future of dermatology care may look less like a traditional referral pathway and more like collaboration — a model that could reshape how patients access care.

In this episode of Focused Practice Conversations, practice operations expert Matt Woollard speaks with consultant dermatologist Dr Leona Yip and Specialist GP Dr Lauren Ries about their experience working together within the same clinical setting at Skin Partners in Brisbane.

Together, they explore how a GP–dermatologist partnership can work in practice — from patient pathways and day-to-day collaboration, to the benefits for both patients and clinicians.

They discuss:

• How their collaboration first came about and what sparked the model
• What the patient journey looks like between GP and dermatologist
• How this approach influences access to care and continuity of treatment
• The professional impact of working in a derm-focused environment
• What other clinicians can learn from collaborative models of care

They also share the lessons they have learned from working side by side, what surprised them along the way, and their advice for GPs and specialists interested in developing similar approaches.

Whether you are interested in building a skin-focused practice, improving collaboration with specialists, or simply curious about how healthcare delivery models are evolving, this conversation offers insights into what is possible when clinicians work together.

Prefer a visual format? Watch this episode on the HealthCert Education YouTube channel.

About Dr Leona Yip

Dr Leona Yip is founding partner and Director of Skin Partners. She is a Melbourne-trained dermatologist and a Fellow of The Australasian College of Dermatologists. Dr Yip previously worked in private and public practice in both Melbourne and Canberra, and is experienced in all aspects of general, surgical and laser dermatology for children and adults.

Dr Yip served as an Editorial Consultant for The British Journal of Dermatology from 2018-2021. Dr Yip is a member of the Dermatology Expert Group involved with the formulation of Dermatology Therapeutic Guidelines in Australia. She is currently the Lead Dermatologist for Queensland Cricket.

Want to learn more from Dr Leona Yip?

Join our next free webinar (in collaboration with CeraVe and DERCOS):
Scalp seborrhoeic dermatitis in practice: A GP treatment playbook

Dermatologist Dr Leona Yip walks through a practical, treatment first approach to managing scalp seborrhoeic dermatitis in general practice.

🗓️ Tuesday 18 August 2026 at 7pm AEST
👉 Register to join live or receive recording >

 

About Dr Lauren Ries

Dr Lauren Ries is a Specialist General Practitioner. Originally from Canada, Dr Ries moved to Australia during her school years and has proudly called it home ever since. She completed her Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at Monash University, graduating with honours.

After working across a range of hospital departments at the Mater Hospital and Queensland Children’s Hospital in Brisbane, Dr Ries followed her passion for General Practice — a specialty she loves for its variety, continuity of care, and the opportunity to build long-term relationships with patients.

Dr Ries enjoys all aspects of General Practice, with a special interest in Skin Cancer Medicine, Dermatology, and Women’s Health. She is passionate about helping patients feel confident in their skin and supported in their overall health, and she takes pride in providing thorough, thoughtful care. Dr Ries is delighted to be part of the team at Skin Partners, where she continues to refine and expand her dermatology skills.

 

Next steps in your learning journey

🎓 Certificate Courses in General Dermatology
Deep-dive into our university-assured, structured pathway from foundation to subspecialisation in GP dermatology.
➡️ Explore program >

🎓 Short Courses in General Dermatology
Explore short, single-topic CPD courses in focused area of dermatology. Complete in less than 10 hours, from $195.
➡️ Browse Short Courses >

🎓 HealthCert 365 subscription
Prefer flexible learning across many topics? Access 4,000+ CPD hours on-demand with HealthCert 365 — any topic, any time, one flat annual fee.
➡️ Discover HealthCert 365 >

 

Focused Practice Conversations series

HealthCert Education's Focused Practice Conversations podcast series explores how GPs build focused areas of practice, why they chose that path, what changed in their clinic, and whether going deeper into one niche was ultimately worth it. Hosted by Matt Woollard.

 

Over the past decade, aesthetic medicine has evolved significantly. Increased competition, changing patient expectations and greater regulatory scrutiny have left many clinicians asking the same question: Is there still a place for GPs in aesthetic medicine?

In this webinar, David Segal, founder of Inside Aesthetics and one of the industry's leading business voices, has an honest conversation about what success in aesthetic medicine looks like today.

What you will learn

Drawing on more than 20 years of experience building, scaling and advising aesthetic businesses, David shares:

• How the aesthetic medicine landscape has changed over the past decade.
• Why the "easy wins" are gone and why that's not necessarily a bad thing.
• What successful clinicians are doing differently in 2026.
• The importance of business, consultation and patient experience skills.
• Where opportunities still exist for GPs entering or expanding into the field.
• Practical advice for building a sustainable aesthetic practice.

Whether you're considering aesthetic medicine for the first time, revisiting it after a few years, or looking to grow an existing service, this webinar replay provides practical insights into the realities and opportunities of practicing aesthetic medicine in 2026.

Watch this webinar on YouTube >

 

About David Segal

David Segal is a business strategist, entrepreneur and consultant with more than 20 years of experience building, operating and scaling businesses in the aesthetics industry. Founder of Inside Aesthetics, he works with clinics, practitioners and organisations around the world to drive sustainable growth through strategic planning, marketing and operational excellence. Drawing on extensive hands-on industry experience, David is a sought-after speaker, advisor and educator, helping aesthetic businesses navigate an evolving market and achieve long-term success.

Join the IA Community

As mentioned in the webinar, Inside Aesthetics have launched their own app called IA Community. Joining this will help injectors network with colleagues, get education, support, business advice, access to all the Inside Aesthetics Podcasts and more.

Get 30 days free access >

Explore IA Community >

Learn more about David Segal's consulting services > 

Follow on socials:
@Insideaestheticspodcast
@David_Insideaesthetics

 

Next steps in your learning journey

🎓 Short Courses in Aesthetic Medicine
Start small with single-topic CPD courses in focused areas of aesthetic medicine for GPs. Complete in less than 10 hours, from $195.
➡️ Browse short courses >

🎓 Certificate Courses in Aesthetic Medicine
Dive deeper with our university-assured, structured Professional Diploma pathway and workshops — the ideal entry point for GPs. Save 50% on next workshops in Sydney (19/20 Sep) with code ASTHVIP50. T&Cs apply.
➡️ Explore certificate program & workshops >

🎓 HealthCert 365 subscription
Prefer flexible learning across many topics? Access 4,000+ CPD hours on-demand with HealthCert 365 — anytime, any topic, one flat annual fee.
➡️ Discover HealthCert 365 >

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions seen in general practice, yet skincare advice can often be overlooked as part of a broader treatment plan. With the right evidence-based approach, dermo-cosmetic products can help support medical therapies, improve tolerability and enhance patient outcomes.

In this webinar delivered in collaboration with La Roche Posay, dermatologist Dr Ryan De Cruz unpacks the 2024 Australasian Consensus Statement on dermo-cosmetic skincare in acne management, exploring how these recommendations can be applied in everyday practice — particularly for patients with mild to moderate acne.

What you will learn

Watch the replay to gain a clear understanding of:

• Key insights from the consensus guidelines and how they apply in primary care.
• The role of dermo-cosmetic adjuncts in enhancing patient adherence and tolerability.
• Tips to recommend cleansers, moisturisers, and SPF products for acne-prone skin.
• Case examples that highlight cost-effective, stepwise approaches to acne care.
• Opportunities for GP-led management before specialist referral.

Watch this webinar on the HealthCert YouTube channel

 

About Dr Ryan De Cruz

Dr Ryan De Cruz is the founder and principal Dermatologist at Southern Dermatology. He is a Fellow of the Australasian College of Dermatologists (FACD) and is recognised for his expertise in eczema, acne, rosacea, psoriasis, skin cancer management, hair disorders, and laser treatments. Ryan completed his medical degree with Honours at The University of Melbourne, receiving the prestigious Hermann Lawrence Prize in Dermatology. He trained across leading hospitals in Melbourne and the UK, including St. George’s Hospital NHS, London. He holds Consultant positions at The Royal Melbourne Hospital and ad The Skin Health Institute. With a passion for personalised and holistic dermatological care, Ryan founded Southern Dermatology as a centre of excellence — combining cutting-edge treatments, state-of-the-art technology, and a patient-centred approach. His philosophy is simple: expert care, open communication, and genuine compassion lead to the best skin outcomes.

 

Next steps in your learning journey

🎓 Certificate Courses in General Dermatology
Our university-assured, structured pathway to elevate your knowledge in GP dermatology.
➡️ Explore full program >

🎓 Short Courses in General Dermatology
Explore short, bite-sized CPD modules in focused topics in dermatology. Complete in less than 10 hours!
➡️ Browse single-topic courses > 

🎓 HealthCert 365 subscription
Prefer flexible learning across many topics? Access 4,000+ CPD hours on-demand with HealthCert 365 — anywhere, anytime, for one flat annual fee.
➡️ Discover HealthCert 365 >

As demand for skin cancer services continues to grow, many clinics are exploring collaborative models that support efficient, patient-centred care. One approach gaining traction is the nurse-melanographer model, where trained nurses work alongside GPs to support skin cancer assessment and management.

In this episode of Focused Practice Conversations, practice operations expert Matt Woollard is joined by experienced melanographer Lynette Hooper to discuss what this model looks like in a real clinical setting.

Lynette shares her journey into melanography, what a typical day in the role involves, and how nurse–melanographers collaborate with GPs to support comprehensive skin checks.

In this episode, Matt and Lynette discuss:

• What the nurse-melanographer role involves in day-to-day clinical practice
• How melanographers structure skin checks, document findings and communicate with GPs
• How effective nurse-GP collaboration can improve clinic workflow and patient care
• The challenges involved in developing confidence with dermoscopy and skin cancer assessment
• Advice for nurses considering melanography and GPs looking to introduce this model into their practice

The conversation highlights the importance of structured training, clear clinical pathways and ongoing skill development when implementing a nurse-melanographer model.

Whether you are a nurse interested in expanding your role in skin cancer medicine, or a GP considering how a melanographer could fit into your practice, this episode provides insights into the opportunities and considerations involved.

Prefer a visual format? Watch this episode on the HealthCert Education YouTube channel.

 

Next steps in your learning journey

🎓 Short Courses in Skin Cancer
Explore single-topic CPD courses for focused learning in skin cancer medicine. Complete in less than 10 hours from $195.
➡️ Browse Short Courses for GPs >
➡️ Browse Short Courses for nurses >

🎓 Certificate Courses in Skin Cancer & Melanography
Dive deeper with HealthCert's university-assured, structured pathway from foundation to subspecialisation to elevate your skin cancer knowledge.
➡️ Explore GP skin cancer program >
➡️ Explore nurse melanography program >

🎓 HealthCert 365 subscription
Prefer flexible learning across many topics? Access 4,000+ CPD hours on-demand with HealthCert 365 — anytime, any topic, one flat annual fee.
➡️ Discover HealthCert 365 >

 

Focused Practice Conversations series

HealthCert Education's Focused Practice Conversations podcast series explores how GPs build focused areas of practice, why they chose that path, what changed in their clinic, and whether going deeper into one niche was ultimately worth it. Hosted by Matt Woollard.