Gastrointestinal Health GP Conference & Dinner
A focus on Gastrointestinal Health
This interactive GP education evening will explore key topics in gastrointestinal health. Through case-based presentations and discussions, GPs will gain practical knowledge to support timely diagnosis, appropriate referral, and effective management of both common and emerging GI issues in primary care.
Date: Thursday, 12 June 2025
Time: 6.15pm Registration & Dinner; 7-9pm Conference
Location: Sydney Adventist Hospital, Tulloch Conference Room Level 2, Tulloch Building, 185 Fox Valley Road, Wahroonga
CPD Points: 2 (Additional MO & RP hours will be available for completing post event activities through MEDD)
Email: doctorengagement@sah.org.au
Convenor
Clin A/Prof Professor Graeme Rich BMedSC MBBS FRACP
Gastroenterologist
Head of Department, Gastroenterology at Sydney Adventist Hospital
Speakers
Early-onset bowel cancer – A patient’s journey through diagnosis, treatment and recovery
Dr Avelyn Kwok BSc(Med) MBBS(Hons) FRACP
Gastroenterologist
Dr Kwok will discuss the rising incidence of early-onset bowel cancer and recent changes to national screening guidelines aimed at supporting earlier detection. Dr Kwok will also follow the real-life experience of a young patient diagnosed with bowel cancer despite having no significant family history. Hearing firsthand from the patient and her specialists, GPs will gain valuable insights into the journey from initial symptoms and diagnosis through treatment, and recovery. The session will highlight the importance of early detection, the role of primary care in facilitating timely referral, and how early intervention can significantly influence outcomes.
Robotic surgery for complex GI problems – the default option
A/Prof Stephen Pillinger MBChB FRACS
Colorectal Surgeon / Colorectal Robotic Surgeon
A/Prof Pillinger will discuss the expanding role of robotic surgery in the management of complex intra-abdominal conditions. This session will provide insights into how robotic-assisted surgery offers significant benefits to patients, including reduced postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery, while maintaining surgical precision and outcomes.
Updates in the management of inflammatory bowel disease – a growing problem
Dr Aviv Pudipeddi MBBS(Hons1) FRACP
Gastroenterologist
Dr Pudipeddi will provide a comprehensive update on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). With the prevalence of IBD continuing to rise, this session will focus on helping GPs recognise common presenting symptoms, initiate appropriate investigations, understand evolving management approaches in 2025, and develop a clearer understanding of the various medications used in treatment. The session will also offer practical guidance on managing patients receiving immunosuppressive therapies, including strategies for infection risk mitigation, vaccination considerations, and effective coordination of ongoing care.