Improving Coeliac Disease Awareness, Diagnosis & Management Amongst Australian GPs with Dr. Nick Cooling

A Gluten Free Podcast 
Episode 168

In this episode of A Gluten Free Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Nick Cooling, a General Practitioner and the Chair of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) Allergy Special Interest Group. Dr. Cooling brings a wealth of experience in healthcare and a deep understanding of how GPs diagnose and manage coeliac disease in Australia.

We discuss the current awareness of coeliac disease among Australian GPs, the barriers to early diagnosis, and what can be done to improve education, awareness, and ongoing care for those living gluten-free. With diagnosis rates still alarmingly low, we explore what changes are needed to ensure more Australians receive timely and accurate diagnoses. We also discuss the ongoing management strategies needed for those with a diagnosis. 

Topics We Cover:

✅ Dr. Cooling’s experience in healthcare and his role at RACGP
✅ What it’s like working as a GP in Australia and the challenges they face
✅ The current state of coeliac disease diagnosis and awareness among GPs
✅ How RACGP is working to improve early detection rates for coeliac disease
✅ The training GPs receive on coeliac disease and the gluten-free diet—what’s working and what’s missing
✅ How GPs approach post-diagnosis treatment and long-term management of coeliac disease
✅ The biggest barriers preventing GPs from recognizing and diagnosing coeliac disease sooner
✅ What future initiatives RACGP is planning to support better coeliac disease care
✅ How we, as a community, can work together to improve diagnosis rates and post-diagnosis support

Why This Episode Matters:

With an estimated 80% of Australians with coeliac disease remaining undiagnosed, there’s an urgent need for better GP education and awareness. This episode highlights what steps are being taken and how you can play a role in advocating for improved diagnosis and care.

Links & Resources:

📌 Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP)
📌 Coeliac Australia
📌 Learn more about coeliac disease symptoms & testing
📌Join our gluten free family 

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Disclaimer

The content on this podcast is not a substitution for professional medical advice. It is the opinion and experience of the show host or guests. Please seek professional medical advice from a medically qualified professional before making any decisions about your health or diet.