Hypomethylating agents in the treatment of myelodysplastic syndromes ( PDF 1MB )
Horizon scanning report
Myelodysplastic syndrome(s) (MDS) comprise a heterogeneous group of rare life-threatening diseases characterised by ineffective haematopoiesis leading to peripheral blood cytopenias and progressive bone marrow failure. MDS patients are a challenging treatment group, and in New Zealand, there are very limited treatment options for these patients. Recent efforts to improve quality of life and prolong survival have produced new therapeutic options which have undergone intensive testing in clinical trials. Of particular significance has been the clinical development of hypomethylating agents. This horizon scan examines the literature relating to the use of these agents in MDS and reports on the evidence relating their clinical benefit and safety.
Problematic substance use in older adults ( PDF 720kB )
A rapid scan of the literature
The purpose of this project was to identify practical resources for service providers in New Zealand working with older adults in residential aged care with historical or current substance use problems. There are a number of different issues that could be discussed under this topic however this report focuses on the misuse of alcohol in older adults. The problematic use of prescription and illicit drugs has also been covered wherever possible. The main focus areas of the report are psychiatric problems associated with substance misuse, identification of problematic substance use, treatment issues and treatment approaches.
How to increase the delivery of effective smoking cessation treatments in primary care settings: guidance for doctors, nurses, other health professionals and healthcare organisations ( PDF 2MB )
Summary Report
This report summarises the evidence on the delivery of effective smoking cessation. It focuses on the ABC approach to smoking cessation which brings with it a more "assertive" manner in which clinicians can work.
This guidance for health professionals provides different elements and key points of leverage that can be used to better implement and support smoking cessation in primary care.
See also the Ministry of Health website for further information on this Summary Report