Australian reference for medicine in China

28 April 2010

A classic medical reference book written by Emeritus Professor John Murtagh has recorded another milestone with its translation into Chinese.

Murtagh's General Practice has been published in many languages and is regarded as a must-have reference for GPs.

But the release of the text in Chinese was a task that Professor Murtagh – a distinguished Monash alumnus – said seemed for a long time to be "as difficult as climbing a high mountain".

In March the translating work of 20 specialists finally culminated with the launch of the influential textbook in Beijing.

The translation is a collaborative project involving Monash, the Chinese Ministry of Health and the Chinese Journal of General Practice that aims to develop general practice in China by providing an appropriate textbook for GP education, and by educating GP leaders through training courses at Monash.

"The book has been translated into 10 languages but there is no greater honour than to be invited to this famous, ancient and populous country as an editorial advisor to the Journal of Chinese General Practice and to have my medical textbook selected for publication," Professor Murtagh said.

"The seed was planted at the University's Department of Primary Care through the vision and initiative of Professor Shane Thomas and his team, especially Dr Hui Yang, who has provided enormous assistance to me in such an insightful and good humoured way."

Monash Vice-Chancellor Professor Edward Byrne, who attended the launch, said Professor Murtagh's contribution to the health of communities around the world exemplified the Monash mission of making a difference internationally.

"Health is ultimately about people and relationships. Well-trained GPs can serve as an accessible and informed link between the health system and individuals. They are the key to building a responsive, community-focused health system that meets the needs of its users," Professor Byrne said.

The above photo: Emeritus Professor John Murtagh receives a certificate of honour from President of the Journal of Chinese General Practice Dr Jianjun Han at a ceremony in Beijing.