Goldfields Family Medical Centre

Dr. Cheryl is Back! :)

For Bookings:
📞 Call the clinic: 8877 1500
🌐 Visit the website: https://www.goldfieldsfamilymedical.com.au/appointments-at-goldfields-medical-centre/
📱 Book online via the AMS Connect App

👀 Better Breast Health & Screening – What Every Woman Should Know

Breast health often sits lower on the priority list for busy women, but becoming familiar with what’s normal for your own breasts, noticing any changes early, and staying up to date with screening can provide real peace of mind and help detect issues at the most treatable stage.

At Goldfields Family Medical Centre, we’ve put together this clear and practical guide to explain good breast health, common signs to be aware of, and how breast screening works in Australia.

In this article, we cover:
✅ What normal breast health looks and feels like
✅ Important changes to watch for and report to your GP
✅ How the national BreastScreen Australia program works (free mammograms every two years for women aged 50–74)
✅ Simple, step-by-step instructions on how to check your own breasts at home
✅ Lifestyle habits that support breast health (maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, balanced diet, limiting alcohol)
✅ When it’s important to see your GP promptly about any new changes

Taking simple steps to care for your breast health is a positive way to support your long-term wellbeing. Have you performed a breast check lately or had your recommended screening?

👉 Read the full guide:
https://www.goldfieldsfamilymedical.com.au/better-breast-health/

Better Breast Health & Screening - Goldfields Family Medical Centre Learn breast self-checks, screening guidelines & lifestyle tips for breast health. Book a consultation at Goldfields Family Medical Centre.

🩺 Cervical Cancer Screening – What Every Woman Should Know

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, yet many women feel unsure or anxious about screening. Regular checks are one of the simplest ways to catch any changes early and give yourself real peace of mind.

At Goldfields Family Medical Centre, we’ve put together this clear guide to explain how cervical screening works today, what the HPV test involves, and why staying up to date is so important for your health.

In this article, we cover:
✅ What cervical cancer is and how it is nearly always caused by HPV
✅ The current national screening program and the self-collection swab option
✅ Who should be screened, how often, and when to start
✅ What an abnormal result means and the usual next steps
✅ The important role of the HPV vaccine in prevention
✅ Tips to make your screening appointment as comfortable as possible

Regular cervical screening is a positive, proactive step that saves lives every year. Have you had your cervical screen in the last few years?

👉 Read the full guide:
https://www.goldfieldsfamilymedical.com.au/cervical-cancer-and-screening/

Cervical Cancer Screening - Goldfields Family Medical Centre Learn cervical cancer risks, HPV vaccination & screening. Book your cervical screening test at Goldfields Family Medical Centre for early detection.

🧴 Managing Eczema – Practical Tips for Everyday Comfort

Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is one of the most common skin conditions, causing dry, itchy, red, or inflamed patches that can feel frustrating and uncomfortable – especially for children and families dealing with it day to day. While eczema is chronic and has no cure, identifying triggers and following a consistent skin care routine can greatly reduce flare-ups and improve comfort and quality of life.

At Goldfields Family Medical Centre, we’ve put together this supportive guide to explain what eczema is, common triggers, and practical, evidence-based strategies to manage it effectively in partnership with your GP.

In this article, we cover:
✅ What eczema is and why the skin barrier becomes more reactive
✅ Frequent triggers including irritants, allergens, weather changes, sweat, stress, and certain foods
✅ The foundation of care: daily application of fragrance-free moisturisers (emollients)
✅ Gentle bathing and showering techniques to hydrate rather than dry the skin
✅ When topical treatments (such as corticosteroid or non-steroid creams) are prescribed safely
✅ The benefits of a personalised GP management plan and regular follow-up

With consistent care and the right support, most people with eczema can achieve much better symptom control and relief. Have you noticed any specific triggers or patterns with your or your child’s eczema recently?

👉 Read the full guide:
https://www.goldfieldsfamilymedical.com.au/managing-eczema/

Managing Eczema Symptoms & Treatment - Goldfields Family Medical Centre Learn common eczema symptoms, causes & management options. Book a skin consultation at Goldfields Family Medical Centre for personalised eczema treatment.

🦴 Osteoporosis – Ways to Help Prevent It

As we age, it's natural to think more about bone strength and whether everyday habits are supporting long-term skeletal health. Osteoporosis develops when bones lose density and become more brittle and prone to fractures, but many risk factors are modifiable – meaning there are practical, evidence-based steps you can take at any age to help maintain stronger bones and lower your risk.

At Goldfields Family Medical Centre, we’ve put together this helpful guide to explain what osteoporosis is, who may be more at risk, and simple lifestyle choices that support bone health over time.

In this article, we cover:
✅ What osteoporosis involves and why bone density gradually declines
✅ Major risk factors including age, menopause, family history, low body weight, and certain medical conditions
✅ The essential role of calcium-rich foods and adequate vitamin D (from diet, sunlight, or supplements when needed)
✅ Weight-bearing and resistance exercises proven to help stimulate and maintain bone strength
✅ Lifestyle habits to limit or avoid (smoking, excessive alcohol intake, prolonged sitting)
✅ When to discuss bone health screening (such as a DEXA scan) with your GP

Protecting your bones is a lifelong investment, and consistent small changes can have a meaningful impact on your future strength and mobility. Have you considered your bone health or had a recent discussion about it with your GP?

👉 Read the full guide:
https://www.goldfieldsfamilymedical.com.au/osteoporosis-and-ways-to-help-prevent-it/

Osteoporosis Prevention & Management - Goldfields Family Medical Centre Learn osteoporosis symptoms, risk factors & lifestyle prevention. Book bone density testing at Goldfields Family Medical Centre for personalised bone health care.

👀 Effects of Screen Time on Kids’ Eyes – What Parents Should Know

With children using devices more often for learning, gaming, and staying connected, it's understandable that parents want to know if all that screen time could affect young eyes. While screens are a normal part of modern life, being mindful of potential issues like eye strain or dryness can help you encourage healthier habits and keep your child's eyes comfortable.

At Goldfields Family Medical Centre, we’ve put together this practical guide to explain how screen time can impact kids’ eyes, signs to look out for, and easy steps to support good eye health.

In this article, we cover:
✅ How extended screen use can contribute to digital eye strain (computer vision syndrome)
✅ Common symptoms in children: tired or sore eyes, headaches, blurred vision, dry or watery eyes, or neck/shoulder discomfort
✅ The 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds
✅ What we know about blue light exposure and protective habits like reducing glare
✅ Australian guidelines on recommended daily screen time by age group
✅ When to see your GP or an eye care professional if symptoms continue

Simple changes to screen routines can help protect your child’s eyes and make device use more comfortable. Have you noticed any signs of eye tiredness or discomfort after screen time?

👉 Read the full guide:
https://www.goldfieldsfamilymedical.com.au/effects-of-screen-time-on-kids-eyes/

Screen Time Effects on Kids’ Eyes - Goldfields Family Medical Centre Discover how screen time affects kids’ eyes, digital eye strain & myopia risks. Book a child eye health check at Goldfields Family Medical Centre.

🎁 Toy Safety – Keeping Playtime Safe for Kids

With the holiday season bringing new toys into homes, it's completely normal for parents to want to make sure every gift is fun and safe. Simple checks for age-appropriateness, small parts, and sturdy construction can help prevent common risks like choking or sharp edges, so play stays joyful and worry-free.

At Goldfields Family Medical Centre, we’ve put together this practical guide with straightforward tips on choosing safe toys, spotting potential hazards, and what to do if something doesn't seem quite right.

In this article, we cover:
✅ Why toy safety is especially important for children under 3 years old
✅ How to test for choking hazards using the toilet roll test
✅ Understanding age labels and why they matter
✅ Safe toy materials to look for (non-toxic paints, no small magnets or batteries)
✅ Battery-operated toys – risks and safe handling guidelines
✅ Steps to take if a toy causes injury or seems unsafe

A few quick checks go a long way toward safe, happy playtime for your little ones. Have you looked over any new toys coming into the house this season?

👉 Read the full guide:
https://www.goldfieldsfamilymedical.com.au/toy-safety/

Toy Safety - Goldfields Family Medical Centre Learn about toy safety in Australia, choking hazards, button batteries & how to choose safe toys. Book a child injury check at Goldfields Family Medical Centre.

🩺 Prostate Health – What Every Man Should Know

As men get older, it's common to notice changes like urinary symptoms that can feel worrying or just part of getting on in years. Understanding prostate health helps put things in perspective, spot what's normal, and know when a quick chat with your GP can bring reassurance.

At Goldfields Family Medical Centre, we’ve put together this straightforward guide to explain the prostate’s role, common age-related changes, and the value of awareness and early checks.

In this article, we cover:
✅ What the prostate does and how it changes with age
✅ Benign prostate enlargement (BPH) and its common symptoms
✅ Prostate cancer – why it's one of the most diagnosed cancers in Australian men
✅ Risk factors including age and family history
✅ Screening options like PSA testing and when to discuss them with your GP
✅ Lifestyle habits that support prostate wellbeing

Taking an interest in your prostate health is a smart, proactive step for long-term comfort and confidence. Have you had a men’s health check-up recently?

👉 Read the full guide:
https://www.goldfieldsfamilymedical.com.au/prostate-health/

Prostate Health - Goldfields Family Medical Centre Learn about prostate health, BPH, PSA testing and early detection. Book a men’s health check at Goldfields Family Medical Centre for personalised advice.

🏫 School Asthma & Anaphylaxis Plans for 2026 – Get Prepared Early

The 2026 school year is coming up quickly, and many parents feel that gentle nudge to make sure everything is in place for their child’s health at school. Having current Asthma and Anaphylaxis Management Plans helps keep your child safe, manage triggers effectively, and gives schools the clear guidance they need to provide the right support.

At Goldfields Family Medical Centre, we’ve put together this practical guide to walk you through why updates are important, what the plans cover, and simple steps to get everything sorted without last-minute worry.

In this article, we cover:
✅ Why schools require up-to-date plans for 2026
✅ Key differences between Asthma and Anaphylaxis Management Plans
✅ What needs to be included in each plan
✅ How your GP reviews, updates, and signs off on the plans
✅ Steps to book an appointment and prepare medications early
✅ Tips for sharing plans with school and educating your child

Getting organised ahead of time brings real peace of mind and helps your child start the year feeling confident and supported. Have you booked a review for your child’s plans yet?

👉 Read the full guide:
https://www.goldfieldsfamilymedical.com.au/school-asthma-anaphylaxis-plans-2026/

School Asthma and Anaphylaxis Management Plans for 2026 - Goldfields Family Medical Centre Update your child’s asthma and anaphylaxis plans before school 2026. Book a GP review at Goldfields Family Medical Centre for safe, school-ready management.

Australia Day - Closure - Monday 26th of January 2026

Meet your New Doctor! - Dr. Laughlan Hodgkiss