ANZ Branch Webinar: Detecting drugs in suspected body packers

The July ANZ Branch Webinar is fast approaching.

This is a LIVE ONLY event!

Join Mariana Podesta-Diverio discussing, ‘Detecting drugs in suspected body packers’

The Royal Melbourne Hospital is one of a select few locations in Australia that provides imaging to detect concealed drugs in body packers (also called “swallowers” or “couriers”). The practices surrounding the management of these cases have not been documented as ardently as other imaging pathways. A key reason for this is that these patients are brought in by the Australian Federal Police and therefore bypass the traditional Emergency Department admission process. Suspected body packers are monitored for toxidromes rather than invasively examined, and abdominal imaging is performed in order to confirm the presence of concealed foreign bodies. The protocol used at RMH exists to ensure suspected individuals are assessed with their consent.

Mariana Podesta-Diverio is a radiographer at the Royal Melbourne Hospital in the Emergency Radiology leadership team. Before starting clinical work, Mariana worked as a research assistant in evidence-based practice. She predominantly works in MRI and CT, and has a strong interest in trauma-informed care. Her background is in humanities and her practice is influenced by a sociological understanding of healthcare access and provision.

Members – Free

Non members – $15 USD

Register now!  https://iafr-elearning.thinkific.com/courses/anz-branch-webinar-july-2025