For older people and frail people, the long-term benefit of medicines reduces and the potential for harm from adverse effects increases. When the benefit–risk balance changes in this way, medicine review and optimisation are important to simplify the therapeutic regimen, reduce inappropriate medicines and minimise risks. In this article, pharmacist prescriber Linda Bryant uses two case studies to illustrate important considerations during medicine reviews
In Shaun we trust: 44 years of quiet assurance
Wednesday 28 May 2025, 01:30 AM

With gentle persuasion and sage advice Shaun Phelan has seen general practice evolve through capitation, corporatisation and COVID-19 [Image: Supplied]
After 45 years in insurance – most of them with MAS – Shaun Phelan has retired with his trademark smile intact. Editor Barbara Fountain writes that from offering small bags of Jaffas to big-picture business advice, he’s spent decades helping GPs rethink practice ownership, advocate for clinical leadership and prepare for a more sustainable future
To me, it’s not about the privatisation; it is about clinical ownership. Is clinical ownership better than corporate ownership? My vote is yes
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Kia ora and welcome to New Zealand Doctor Rata Aotearoa
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