p u o r G e r a C h t l a e H a r e m m i W

2008 u n n A 9 0 / 8 0 0 2 2009

a Annual Report o p e R l r Incorporating: t Wimmera Base Hospital Dimboola Hospital Wimmera Nursing Home Kurrajong Lodge Hostel

Baillie Street Horsham Victoria 3400 p: 03 5381 9111 f: 03 5382 0829 e: [email protected] w: www.whcg.org.au A Marketing Business Production 7902 Production A Marketing Business Service Directory Our Profile

Wimmera Health Care Group is based in the Wimmera sub-region of the Grampians, 300 km west of Melbourne and in close proximity to the Grampians National Park. With a budget of approximately $59 million, Wimmera Health Care Group is the major specialist referral centre for the Wimmera and Southern Mallee region of Victoria. Our campuses in Horsham and Munyip Dimboola service an area of 61,000 square kilometres and a population Dimboola Murtoa of approximately 54,000. Rupanyup Horsham Our Horsham campus employs over 600 people and features 84 acute, 70 high care and 36 low care residential beds. The campus at Dimboola employs 60 staff and has four acute, 22 high care and four low care residential beds. Wimmera Health Care Group also takes management responsibility for the Dunmunkle Health Service under a formal service agreement. Wimmera Health Care Group provides a range of emergency, critical care, residential and primary care services for adults and children. This year, we treated more than 11,000 inpatients, 17,000 emergency patients and 33,000 outpatients. Horsham The Wimmera Health Service was established in 1874 as the Horsham Hospital and was incorporated by the authority of the Hospitals and Charities Act (No. 5300) on 27th August 1877. Ballarat Melbourne In 1950, the name was changed to Wimmera Base Hospital and, following the formal amalgamation with Dimboola District Hospital on 1st November 1995, became officially known as Wimmera Health Care Group. Our Services and Programs

Aboriginal Best Start Geriatric Evaluation Management Pre-Admission Clinic Acquired Brain Injury Support General Medicine Pulmonary Rehabilitation Adult Day Activity/Support General Surgery Radiology Aged Care Assessment Haemodialysis Rehabilitation Assessment Alzheimer’s Association HARP Residential Services Antenatal Classes Health Promotion Respite for Carers Anticoagulation Hospice Care Safety Link Audiology Hospital in the Home Social Work Breast Prosthetics Hostel Accommodation Speech Pathology Breast Screening Infection Control Spinal Clinic Cancer Support Intensive Care Unit Stomal Therapy Cardiac Rehabilitation Koori Hospital Liaison Officer Stress Testing Clinic Centre Against Sexual Assault Lactation Consultant Team Midwifery Cognitive Dementia and Memory Low Vision Clinic Teleradiology Colposcopy Clinic Medical Imaging Ultrasound Community Rehabilitation Medical Library Urology Computer Tomography (CT) Midwifery Ward Video Fluoroscopy Continence Neonatal Nursing Wimmera Community Options Day Oncology Obstetrics and Gynaecology Wound Care Day Surgery Occupational Therapy Dental and Prosthetic Clinic Oncology Dermatology Ophthalmology Diabetes Education Oral Surgery HOW TO CONTACT US… Dietetics Orthopaedics p: 03 5381 9111 District Nursing Orthotics Laboratory f: 03 5382 0829 Domiciliary Midwife Pacemaker Clinic e: [email protected] Ear, Nose and Throat Paediatric Care m: Baillie Street, Horsham, Victoria 3400 Echocardiography Pathology w: www.whcg.org.au Emergency Department Pharmacy Endoscopy Physiotherapy Family Planning Podiatry Cover Image: Surgeons, Dr Heinz Koehler and Mr Graham Kitchen in the operating suite at Gait and Balance Clinic Post-Acute Care Wimmera Health Care Group where 4,115 operations were carried out this year. About this Report …

This Annual Report provides performance, quality and financial information for the 2008/09 financial year. It is a legal document prepared in accordance with the Financial Management Act 1994 (clauses 9.1.3 to 9.2.2 inclusive) for the Hon Daniel Andrews MP, Minister for Health, the Parliament of Victoria and the community. The contents have been prepared to meet compliance with statutory disclosure and other requirements. This Annual Report should be read in conjunction with our 2008/09 Quality of Care Report. Both documents are available on our website www.whcg.org.au and from all Wimmera Health Care Group sites. Contents

Page No.

Service Directory Inside cover Our Services and Programs Inside cover A Snapshot of our Year 2 Strategic Plan 4 Report of Operations – President and CEO’s Report 6

Corporate Governance 9 Chris Scott (back left) and the Hon Daniel Andrews MP, Minister for Health (back right), welcome Tina (Tan Li), James (Jiang Shaowei) and Wang Yu to Wimmera Health Care Group. • Board of Management 9 They are the first three students from Kunming Medical University to participate in an 11 week visiting scholars program at Wimmera Health Care Group. • Board Committees 10 • Committees with Board Representation 10 • Board Education 10 Organisational Chart 11 Our Executive Team 12 Medical Services 13 Clinical Services 13 Corporate Services 14 Accreditation 14 Occupational Health and Safety 15 Our Staff 16 The Community That Supports Us 18 Patient Statistics 21 Financial Overview 25 Compliance 27 Compliance and Disclosure Index 28 Senior Staff 29 Donors 32 Financial Report 33

WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 1 A Snapshot of our Year

July 2008 August 2008

• The Board elects Mrs Bonnie Thompson to the Presidency • Seven staff from the Dimboola campus are presented and Chair, replacing Mr Pawel Wajszel who served in this with Certificate III in Hospitality (Operations) by the role for three years. University of Ballarat at a special awards ceremony. • Horsham Rural City Council sister city delegation from Nujiang Prefecture in China visits Wimmera Health Care Group’s Horsham campus.

September 2008 October 2008

• Wimmera Health Care Group’s paediatric diabetes clinic • The Friends All Riding Together (a group of Wimmera/ celebrates 10 years of operation in Horsham. The clinic Mallee motorcycle enthusiasts) donate a vital signs for children aged up to 18 years, first began in 1998 monitor to the Day Oncology Unit in memory of their when A/Prof Fergus Cameron from the Department friend Andrew Gawith, who lost a long battle with of Endocrinology and Diabetes at Melbourne’s Royal cancer in 1997. Children’s Hospital started visiting Horsham to provide the Thanks to the support of the Bendigo Bank in Horsham, service. Eight children attended the clinic when it started. • an automatic teller machine is installed in the foyer at This year up to 60 children from across the region come to the Horsham campus. the clinic for their three-monthly check up. • Wimmera Health Care Group launches its new web site – www.whcg.org.au. The new site provides a comprehensive range of information about Wimmera Health Care Group and the local region along with on-line job application and donation facilities.

November 2008 December 2008

• More than 100 people attend Wimmera Health Care • Wimmera Health Care Group says thank you to more Group’s Annual General Meeting in Horsham where than 80 valued volunteers at a special volunteer Mr Bruce Johansen and Mr Pawel Wajszel are awarded appreciation evening held at the Horsham campus life governorships. Letters of recognition are also presented as part of National Volunteers Week celebrations. to Wimmera Hospice Care Auxiliary members Melba McGlynn and Lyn Taylor and a certificate of appreciation • Representatives from the Horsham Cycling Club’s Murray to long-term Wimmera Nursing Home volunteer Wenda to Moyne Cycle Relay Team present a high/low bed to the Netherway. Dimboola campus (the team raised approximately $6,000).

2 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 January 2009 February 2009

• Wimmera Hospice Care Co-ordinator, Anne Hayes is • Chief Podiatrist Sara Coats is awarded Monash awarded life membership of Palliative Care Victoria in University’s prestigious Master of Wound Care prize as recognition of her contribution to palliative care services part of her Master of Wound Care degree. Her project across the region. was to develop a clinical protocol for the assessment of diabetic foot wounds. • Wimmera Health Care Group confirms the appointment of a new permanent Obstetrician and Gynacaeologist. • The Board formally embarks on the consolidation of critical principles to drive the new strategic plan for Wimmera Health Care Group. • Formal agreement for the placement of medical students from Deakin University is confirmed.

March 2009 April 2009

• Wimmera Health Care Group celebrates Harmony Day • Director of Medical Services, A/Prof Alan Wolff, is by providing cultural awareness information and food selected from more than 600 applicants, to showcase samples to visitors in the hospital foyer. Wimmera Health Care Group’s clinical quality improvement program at the International Forum • Three Chinese students are welcomed to Wimmera Health on Quality and Safety in Health Care in Berlin. Care Group as part of a three month Visiting Scholar The conference was attended by 1,700 clinicians Program – the result of a relationship set up with Kunming and managers from all around the world. Medical University (a facility that has over 15,000 medical, nursing and allied health students) which supports Wimmera Health Care Group’s strategic direction in recruitment and retention in the area of skilled migration. • The Wimmera Wizards Murray to Moyne cycle relay team purchase new uniforms, thanks to the support of Neverfail, Jayco Horsham, Simpsons – The Labour Hire Specialists, the National Australia Bank, Horsham T Life and Health Financial.

May 2009 June 2009

• Wimmera Health Care Group celebrates International • The Victorian State Government announces recurrent Nurses Day by hosting a barbeque luncheon for more funding for the Delkaia Aboriginal Best Start Project than 50 nursing staff. for which Wimmera Health Care Group is the facilitating partner and fundholder. • Over 40 senior secondary students attend a careers expo at Wimmera Health Care Group, aimed at providing • As part of a partnership with the Victoria Police Blue them with an opportunity to learn more about careers in Ribbon Foundation, a dedication ceremony in honour nursing and allied health. of Constable George Howell (a police officer who passed away in the line of duty of 1 February 1952) Wimmera Health Care Group becomes the first Victorian • is held in the Emergency Department. hospital to acknowledge the region’s traditional owners by unveiling a commemorative plaque at the Horsham campus with plans for a similar ceremony to be held at the Dimboola campus in August 2009.

WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 3 Strategic Plan Introducing our New Strategic Plan

The Wimmera Health Care Group Board of Management has adopted a new strategic plan to guide the organisation into the future. It was developed over the course of the year in conjunction with staff, other service providers and the community through our Community Advisory Committee.

Vision Statement To be the leader in rural health delivering caring services with respect, reliability and integrity.

Strategic Goals and Critical Challenges

1. Strengthen regional relationships

1.1 Investigate and implement collaborative models of care and services Progress: to achieve best practice across the region. We have been instrumental in the advancement of sub regional relationships through a number of forums and are focusing on the collaborative work being undertaken to 1.2 Obtain a better understanding of what regional health care providers develop a Wimmera Sub Regional Service Plan. Engagement can offer and utilise to gain a better outcome. with staff and stakeholders in the development of this strategic plan were fundamental to strengthening our regional relationships. 1.3 Market and promote rural health as a speciality area.

1.4 Build and promote partnerships with other stakeholders.

2. Improve facilities to promote a safe and effective working environment Progress: Wimmera Health Care Group has embarked on the 2.1 Develop and maintain effective corporate governance. establishment of medical consulting rooms, increasing administrative space and expanding day procedure 2.2 Develop a framework for the timely modernisation of facilities capacity to enhance the delivery of services in a safe and and equipment. effective environment. Commitment to improved safety was demonstrated through a detailed security review, the 2.3 Implement an integrated safety management system. application of on-line fire training and installation of video surveillance.

2.4 Establish a physical environment suitable for the provision of safe and high quality care.

3. Pursue excellence in care Progress: 3.1 Continue to develop and maintain systems that promote safe and high quality care. Continuous quality improvement is a key focus of our recently re-engineered quality governance system. Risk assessment 3.2 Plan and deliver care in a collaborative and person centred manner. and business continuity has been a key feature in the pursuit of enriched service models. We have endeavoured to ensure the highest level of care through the acquisition of 3.3 Develop and maintain effective clinical governance. appropriately trained and skilled clinicians and support staff. This is no more evident than the appointment of a new surgeon 3.4 Foster a focus on the consumer experience throughout the continuum and obstetrician and gynaecologist. of care.

4 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 Community Advisory Committee members review the strategic Midwife Lee Owens with new baby Oscar Clarke. Launch of the new ATM at Horsham campus. plan with Chris Scott. 4. Promote health and wellbeing in the region

4.1 Provide care, resources and healthy lifestyle education that Progress: maximises physical and mental wellbeing. Wimmera Health Care Group has promoted a high level of health and wellbeing through increased community outreach services. 4.2 Enhance and improve outcomes in health and wellbeing for Health promotion activities have been heavily weighted to the community. promote key lifestyle change to achieve optimal health outcomes. In collaboration with regional partners, incremental changes 4.3 Recognise that different specific, social, cultural and linguistically have been achieved in mental health awareness and treatment. diverse groups require flexible approaches to achieve optimal health We have been a leader in recognising the needs of our traditional outcomes land owners and those from ethnic and diverse backgrounds.

5. Reduce our impact on the environment Progress: 5.1 Protect all natural resources and diminish known threats to the We are continually refining the way we consume energy and environment through practice, education and promotion. dispose of waste. This year, we have implemented a number of initiatives to reduce demand and consequently, reduce our consumption of natural resources. We have invested in reducing 5.2 Establish opportunities for waste avoidance, reduction, recycling the electricity use of our air conditioning systems by improving and reuse. the air flow around chillers. The chillers are enclosed in insulated rooms with fans to draw air flow past them. We have also created drought proof gardens and installed solar boosters. Other successful 5.3 Balance environmental, economic and social influences on initiatives have included storm water harvesting and potable water ecological sustainability. recycling.

6. Be an employer of choice

6.1 Attract and maintain a workforce with skills and knowledge to Progress: deliver excellent services across all divisions. The promotion of staff on internal career pathways has been a significant influence on training and developing our staff to be the foundation of a recruitment and retention strategy. 6.2 Develop a career path for staff to achieve their full potential. Our commitment to a “best practice philosophy” has supported our appeal to both domestic and international appointments. 6.3 Strengthen and maintain an ongoing commitment to an Seeking out new and innovative recruitment strategies such organisational wide program of evidence-based best practice as allied health marketing, the Visiting Scholars Program and in staff development, education and training. targeted capture have all been rewarded.

6.4 Market and promote the advantages of careers in rural health.

6.5 Provide programs that promote the physical, mental wellbeing and social connectivity of our workforce.

WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 5 Report of Operations President and CEO’s Report

It seems that every year the level of health care needs in the Wimmera grows at a phenomenal rate and it has been the organisation’s focus again to meet that need with all the available physical, human and financial resources that are required. To achieve this, our clinical staff have strived to develop clear clinical pathways which provide treatments that lead to higher levels of care in a planned and professional manner. Wimmera Health Care Group’s clinical staff have led the industry in the development of these pathways.

Leadership and Planning Improving Performance The year in review has seen a number of significant developments Our vision is to provide caring services with respect, reliability and that will define the future direction of health services, not only in our integrity. In a community with changing demographics and a region immediate patient catchment of Horsham, but also through our broader suffering the effects of a decade of drought, the importance of our vision role in the Wimmera. With an increasingly ‘demanding’ and upwardly to the community cannot be underestimated. mobile public, access to services and information is essential. To this end, a number of key planning activities have taken place. The demand for quality services is exemplified in our numbers – acute services witnessed growth in excess of 1,000 additional patient The first of these includes the adoption of two major information admissions (9.8%) over the prior year. Acute inpatient services are now technology infrastructure commitments through the Department of reaching well over 11,000 admissions per year. The most significant Human Service’s ‘HealthSMART’ policy, resulting in our investment into individual increases have been in renal dialysis and chemotherapy new patient and financial management systems. It is anticipated that services. Surgical, maternity and emergency services have also these systems will vastly improve our information flow, data quality experienced sizeable growth. Furthermore, the Wimmera Health Care and performance efficiency around our key areas of business. Group has expanded its service models in the sub-acute area recognising A second key planning activity has involved the Department of the shift in patient needs. As acute services become more centralised, Human Services which has been instrumental in embarking upon the facilities must reflect the needs of patients seeking to return to their development of a Wimmera Sub-Regional Service Plan. This body of local hospital or to their home as soon as possible. The support of the work will be significant in not only taking Wimmera Health Care Group Department of Human Services has been significant in this regard, with forward, but also in defining the roles of all agencies in the sub-region. expansion into the Geriatric Evaluation Management and Transitional The Service Plan will form the core evidence for a review of our Master Care programs. These programs further emphasise our commitment to Plan, which is instrumental in determining the future infrastructure maintaining patients in a care level appropriate to their requirements needs of the Wimmera Base Hospital site. and therefore fill a ‘gap’ we had identified in our array of care needs. A third and very important planning activity involved the Wimmera Our community outreach programs through Wimmera Community Health Care Group undertaking a number of internal reviews and audits Options, the HARP program, and Home and Community Care, are all in order to redefine its own direction and priorities. These have resulted in significant demand. Unfortunately, our residential aged care service, in improved models of care and enhanced data analysis for informed like many others, is suffering poor occupancy rates. The trend in this decision making. industry is for older people to stay at home longer in a supported care environment. At our local level, the provision of residential aged care is compounded by our dated infrastructure that is unattractive and inefficient in light of newer facilities in the area. Notwithstanding these challenges, the residential aged care facilities maintained their unblemished compliance to the Commonwealth Aged Care Standards “With a more and Accreditation Agency audit requirements. Complimentary to these, is our accreditation performance with the Australian Council on Healthcare Standards of continuous compliance since its inception in demanding public 1975. This is an outstanding achievement, a record we are extremely proud of. that is increasingly The financial performance of the organisation in the current reporting period reflected the significant pressure on resources to maintain service levels and reporting structures in an economy under duress. Wimmera upwardly mobile Health Care Group has worked closely with the Department of Human Services to monitor its performance and achieve significant productivity access to services savings through efficiency enhancements. A major internal review was undertaken in collaboration with the Department of Human Services to recognise improvements. As we enter into a new funding agreement and information is with government, the forthcoming year again presents a number of challenges given the need in the current financial environment to pursue essential” further productivity savings.

6 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 “To be a leader in rural health delivering caring services with respect, reliability and integrity”

Chris Scott (left) and Bonnie Thomson (right) congratulate award recipients Melba McGlynn, Bruce Johansen, Pawel Wajszel and Wenda Netherway at the Health Care Group’s Annual General Meeting (absent – Lyn Taylor). Strategic Growth We often express our gratitude toward the professional skills our staff A significant feature of the organisation’s development has been the bring to the organisation and to our community. In May 2008, that completion of a new strategic plan. The achievements gained from excellence was exhibited through the publication of a significant body the 2003-2008 plan have been reported in previous annual reports. of work undertaken by our Director of Medical Services and our Clinical In reflection, the following three key indicators demonstrate the Risk Manager when they completed ‘a practical text’ for implementing growth Wimmera Health Care Group has experienced since 2003: a hospital based patient safety and quality program. The book was launched by the Minister for Health on 31st August 2009. It has already 1. Revenue increased by 48% to just under $60m p.a.; proved to be extremely popular in Australia and is now attracting 2. Staff full time equivalent increased by 21% to 533 FTE; and overseas interest. The individuals involved in the creation of the systems 3. Patients treated increased by 23% to 11,368. and the book are to be congratulated. This rapid expansion has taken the organisation to a new level in In looking at high quality clinical care, it is easy to consider only the the delivery of quality health care. Furthermore, it emphasises the medical and clinical staff. At Wimmera Health Care Group, we are importance of our business to the local and surrounding economies. extremely aware that the provision of health services is dependent upon The development of a new strategic plan to reflect this growth was an entire team of professionals and volunteers who together provide a undertaken by the Board in conjunction with staff and key strong support base for the many services we provide. stakeholders. The strategies and critical challenges formulated are designed to progress the organisation and reflect it’s important role in Human Resourcing being the principal service provider in the Wimmera. The concept of The Health Care Group has been appreciably active in recruiting being a leader in rural health delivering caring services with respect, high quality clinical and support staff to ensure the level of skilled reliability and integrity have been core principles of the Wimmera Health professionals is reflective of the services we provide. It is acknowledged Care Group to such a significant level that it now transforms to our new that at times key staff changes are beyond our control, however this vision statement. provides an opportunity to explore new boundaries and develop innovative approaches to meeting our requirements. The development of our own independent medical clinic in collaboration with government and Deakin University is just one example of our commitment to the long term future of sustainable services. This year the organisation embarked on a number of innovative recruitment strategies both locally and internationally. We continue to pursue the ‘traditional’ overseas recruitment pathways, however, during the year we stepped outside the square and created a Visiting Scholars Program partnership with Kunming Medical University in China. This program allowed the organisation to witness first hand the recruitment potential from China. The Minister for Health complimented this initiative and personally welcomed the inaugural group of students to Horsham.

From left, Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Simon Overland, pictured with Bonnie Thompson, Les Power, Blue Ribbon Foundation President and Chris Scott, at the dedication ceremony of the emergency department.

WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 7 Report of Operations President and CEO’s Report

Regional Collaboration Future Outlook The establishment of a number of regional and sub-regional forums has Robert F Kennedy could not have put it any better when in 1966 he quoted, provided a significant breakthrough in the development of collaborative ‘May you live in interesting times’ for this is surely what lies ahead for relationships with both our traditional ‘neighbours’ and funding bodies. the Wimmera Health Care Group. The excitement of embarking on a Recognition of the benefits of working together may be seeds sown now, range of new sub-acute service models of care to strengthen the acute however, with nurturing, we expect those seeds will grow into something services provides an opportunity to build on our regional role. It is clear significant. The government has given a clear direction for rural and that the Wimmera Health Care Group’s clinical demand will increase regional health services to follow. The frameworks and concepts need to and with that, the need for targeting recruitment and building our be explored and engaged to ensure that future communities are cared infrastructure capability. The need for the development of sub-regional for in a responsible and safe environment. support services in collaboration with other agencies will be essential The future development of health services in the Wimmera, as with all for all agencies to maintain the high quality of skilled expertise in the rural Victoria, can be seen as being codified in the State Government’s region. The redevelopment of our residential aged care services and the policy ‘Rural direction for a better state of health’ first launched in 2005. progressive implementation of our strategic goals and critical challenges The broad principles of the policy to promote health and wellbeing, foster will focus our attention on achieving the necessary outcomes to meet the a contemporary health system and models of care, and strengthen and needs of our communities as we move forward. Yes, it is true to say that we sustain rural health services, are reflected in the Wimmera Health Care really do ‘live in interesting times’. Group’s own strategic direction. The policy also provides the platform for the establishment of a Wimmera sub-regional service plan as mentioned Signature Signature earlier. The creation of a Wimmera-wide approach to service delivery is a unique opportunity for all our local partners. Together, we can embrace the policy direction and deliver a system that protects the health and safety of all our communities both current and future. Bonnie Thompson Chris Scott President Chief Executive Board and Governance 3rd September 2009 3rd September 2009 The Wimmera Health Care Group Board of Management has actively strengthened it’s governance role through policy development and ongoing member education and training. At the end of the year, the Responsible Bodies Declaration Board farewelled Mrs Rhonda Tursi who had served on the Board In accordance with the Financial Management Act 1994, I am pleased to since 2003. Our appreciation is unreservedly extended to Rhonda who present the Report of Operations for the Wimmera Health Care Group for provided generously of her time, experience and professional skill. the year ending 30 June 2009. It is disappointing to lose valued community leaders from the Board, however, as our dedicated Board members move on to other adventures, new opportunities arise to bring fresh skills, ideas and business acumen Signature to our enthusiastic group. The organisation has taken the unique step to embrace the aboriginal heritage of the region through dedication ceremonies and permanent acknowledgement in both the Horsham and Dimboola sites of the Bonnie Thompson traditional owners. These public demonstrations of our commitment President to the aboriginal custodians are seen as a significant step forward in the 3rd September 2009 reconciliation process and a further example of our desire to improve relationships with the indigenous community.

From left Chris Scott and Bonnie Thompson, pictured with Jaala Pulford MP (Member for Western Victoria) and Uncle Lester Marks-Harradine and Aunty Leila Harradine (Wotjobaluk Elders and Barengi Gadjin Land Council Members) at the traditional owners plaque unveiling ceremony at the Horsham Campus.

8 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 Corporate Governance Board of Management

1) 2) 3) 4)

5) 6) 7) 8)

1) President 5) Mrs R F Tursi (Rhonda) Ms B K Thompson (Bonnie) Dip Bus (Acc), Dip Ed, CPA MA(Teaching/Ed), BA(Linguistics), BA(English) Profession/Occupation: Tax Accountant Profession/Occupation: Businesswoman Date Appointed: 1st November 2003 (ceased 30th June 2009) Date Appointed: 1st November 2006 • Ex-officio of all Board of Management Sub-Committees 6) Mr E J McCabe (Ted) Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Victoria 2)  Vice President – Finance and Audit Profession/Occupation: Lawyer Mr M A Williams (Mark) Date Appointed: 1990-1997, reappointed 1st November 2006 B Bus (Accounting and Data Processing), CPA, MBA Profession/Occupation: General Manager, Business Services 7) Mrs J E Saxton (Joanne) Date Appointed: 1st November 2001 Dip Phys Ed, HDTS Profession/Occupation: Private Company Administrator 3) Vice President – Quality and Safety Date Appointed: 1st November 1997 Mrs L M Sharrock (Leigh-Anne) (leave of absence from July 2008 to April 2009) RN, DDSO Profession/Occupation: Disability Support Officer 8) Mr P D Wajszel (Pawel) Date Appointed: 1st November 2004 B Eng (Hons), M Sc (Met) Profession/Occupation: Foundry Manager 4) Vice President – Relationships Date Appointed: 1st November 1996 (ceased 31st October 2008) Mr P Sabien (Philip) B Appl Sc, Grad Dip Food Sc, MBA Profession/Occupation: Executive Director Date Appointed: 1st November 2004

WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 9 Corporate Governance Board Committees

Board Executive Sub-Committee Has the authority of the Board to act on its behalf between meetings of the Board provided that all decisions taken which relation to policies must be referred to the next Board meeting. Members: B Thompson (Chair), M Williams, L Sharrock, P Sabien Chief Executive Officer Performance Review Sub-Committee Reviews the performance of the Chief Executive on an annual basis (September every year) and makes recommendations on remuneration levels.

Members: B Thompson (Chair), M Williams, L Sharrock, P Sabien, Ophthalmologist Mr Michael Toohey performs eye surgery at WHCG. 1,140 occasions of service P Wajszel were provided at the ophthamology outpatient clinic this year.

Committees with Board Representation

Clinical Governance Committee Financial Performance, Audit and Corporate Risk To develop a comprehensive program to monitor, review and continually Committee improve all the activities and services relevant to the quality of care Analyses the financial performance of the Health Care Group and Group provided for all patients. To assess the Health Care Group’s level of Linen Service in detail and makes recommendations to the Board of compliance with ACHS EQuIP Accreditation Guidelines and oversee the Management on accounts to be passed for payment, bad debts to be Health Care Group’s preparations for accreditation. All of the EQuIP teams written off, and any other matter related to finance. report to this Committee. The Clinical Governance Committee provides a forum to consolidate the various elements of the Quality Improvement Recommends policies and procedures to ensure resources of the Health system. Care Group are used in an efficient and effective manner and to maintain management procedures and systems to achieve this. Members: B Thompson, M Williams, L Sharrock (Chair Jul-Dec 08), P Sabien (Chair Jan-Jun 09), P Wajszel (to 31 Oct 08), E McCabe The Committee reviews the external auditor’s draft management letters and final report (usually March and October). Additional meetings may Clinical Research (Ethics) Committee be held if and when any urgent matters arise. Assesses all proposals for clinical research within Wimmera Health Care Members: M Williams (Chair), L Sharrock, R Tursi, E McCabe Group and recommends to the Board whether or not such proposals should be approved. Monitors and controls research projects and Medical Advisory Committee maintains a register of projects. Makes recommendations to the Board of Management relating to Members: E McCabe medical staff appointments and the delineation of clinical privileges. Community Advisory Committee Members: B Thompson (Chair), L Sharrock, P Sabien, E McCabe Has a primary role in commenting on the service needs of local Nursing Advisory Committee communities, the development of strategic plans and making Provides a centralised, representative forum for discussion and making recommendations on health service delivery to the Board of recommendations to the Board of Management on matters related to Management through the Chief Executive. nursing resources, education and practice. Members: B Thompson, P Sabien Members: M Williams (Chair) Board Education The Board of Management is committed to keeping abreast of recent developments and education relevant to their corporate governance role. Education activities undertaken this year have included: - Corporate Governance Training - Strategic Planning - Clinical Risk Management - Nurse Practitioner Model - Recruitment Consultant

10 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 Organisational Chart

Board of Management

Chief Executive Mr Chris Scott

Director of Corporate Services Director of Clinical Services Director of Medical Services Mr Shaun Eldridge Mr Don McRae A/Prof Alan Wolff

• Community and Private • Engineering Services • Critical Care Services • Allied Health Services • Audiologist (visiting) Patient Liaison Officer Manager – Oxley NUM – Yandilla NUM • Centre Against Sexual • Chief Occupational • Dunmunkle Health Services • Environmental Services Assault Coordinator Therapist Manager • Emergency Dept NUM • Executive Assistant • Chief Librarian • Chief Physiotherapist • Executive Assistant • Executive Assistant • Human Resources • Chief Pharmacist • Chief Podiatrist Manager • Finance Manager • Nursing Operations Manager • Clinical Risk • Chief Speech Pathologist • OHS & Security Manager • Food Services Manager Manager • Primary Care Manager • Dietician Services • Quality Manager • Information Technology • Executive Assistant Manager • Residential Services • Senior Dental Officer & Dimboola Campus • Health Information • Linen Services Manager Manager Services Manager • Senior Social Worker

• Supply Manager • Staff Development • HMO Manager Manager • Senior Medical Staff

• Residential Medical Officers

WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 11 Our Executive Team

Chief Executive: Director of Medical Services: Mr Christopher G Scott A/Prof Alan M Wolff BHSc (Mgt), MBA (CSU), AFSCHSE, AIMM, CHE MB, BS, MD, Dip RACOG, FRACGP, MBA, MRACMA, FCHSE

Director of Clinical Services: Director of Corporate Services: Mr. Don McRae Mr Shaun Eldridge RN, M H Mgt, RM, Grad Dip Crit Care, CC Cert B Bus (Acc), MBA, CPA

12 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 Medical Services

Wimmera Health Care Group provides acute care, allied health and Director of Medical Services Alan Wolff made a presentation at the emergency services from our main campus at Horsham as well as acute prestigious International Forum on Quality and Safety in Health Care care and residential aged care from our other campus at Dimboola. in March 2009. He presented eight years of clinical pathway data measuring the quality of inpatient care at Wimmera Health Care Group. We have a large number of proactive allied health services who continued to provide care and health promotion to our community this This year, A/Prof Wolff and our Clinical Risk Manager Sally Taylor year. Services such as podiatry, occupational therapy, physiotherapy collaborated to publish a book entitled “Enhancing Patient Care: a and speech pathology were also provided to neighbouring health practical guide to improving quality and safety in hospitals”. This practical organisations to support their services. guide will assist other health services who are seeking to implement better patient care through improving quality and safety in their Whilst recruitment is always challenging for a regional health service, hospitals. we were fortunate to recruit a number of specialists this year. Martin Ebenezer was employed as a Specialist Physician, and Michaela Hock Our medical practices continued to advance with staff learning new joined us as a Specialist Obstetrician and Gynaecologist to enhance our techniques and processes. One such procedure was the introduction maternity and gynaecology services which are in demand across the of inserting central lines under the guidance of ultrasound. This helps region. reduce risk and promotes better patient outcomes. Our medical services staff continue to represent Wimmera Health Care A new position of Hospital Medical Officer Manager was created in Group at the highest levels, sharing their knowledge with other clinicians Medical Services this year. This position is responsible for recruiting, through research, presentations and publications. retaining and educating our junior medical officers to ensure Wimmera Health Care Group continues to provide leading medical services. Clinical Services

The Clinical Services division of Wimmera Health Care Group oversees On the Wards a wide range of nursing, community and residential aged care services across both our campuses. This year we began the implementation of a team nursing model of care in Yandilla Ward. This has enabled us to improve the efficiency of This year saw ongoing improvements in many of our processes as well our staff and improve the level of care for patients. We also commenced as better infrastructure to help serve our patients. In the operating suite, a Geriatric Evaluation Management (GEM) inpatient service in Oxley we introduced a computerised instrument tracking system to increase Ward to assist our older patients and residents to return to maximum efficiency and reduce infection risks to patients. The Resuscitation Room functional capacity. in our Emergency Department received an $80,000 upgrade thanks to the Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation. To meet increasing patient We merged several services this year under the sub-acute services needs, our chemotherapy services were expanded from three to five days banner, to improve our management. These included the Hospital a week in the Day Oncology Unit. Admission Risk Program (HARP), community rehabilitation services and specialty outpatient clinics. Community Nursing Staff Development Our community services continued to grow and improve under the care of our enthusiastic community health nurses. The community health Staff development initiatives have included the establishment of a nurse program ran a Café to Go project and a diabetes self management new computer training laboratory and conducting organisation-wide program this year. customer service training. The Delkaia Aboriginal Best Start partnership received recurrent funding We commenced a Nurse Practitioner project this year in conjunction with for their local program which runs health promotion activities for Rural Northwest Health to develop a nurse practitioner model for mental indigenous children up to eight years old. This project is a partnership health and aged care. between Wimmera Health Care Group, Horsham Rural City Council, The year also saw the development of a patient centred after hours care Barengi Gadjin Land Council, Wimmera Primary Care Partnership, triage service which is being adopted across the Grampians and Loddon Horsham North Primary School, Wimmera Uniting Care, Goolum Goolum Mallee regions. Aboriginal Co-operative, Local Aboriginal Education Consultative Group, Delkaia Indigenous Reference Group, Department of Human Services and We recruited additional nurses to meet the ratio requirements of the new the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development. Nurses Enterprise Bargaining Agreement 2007-2011. The Residential Services Manager and Dimboola Campus Manager positions have been merged to create a Grade 7 Director of Nursing position to oversee all Residential Services at Wimmera Health Care Group. An aged care clinical teacher position was also created in conjunction with the expansion of our undergraduate clinical placements in residential aged care, as well as an additional clinical teacher for acute care.

WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 13 Corporate Services

Technology Support Services Wimmera Health Care Group implemented a new Aged Care system We gained a number of significant new clients for the Linen Service this this year called Icare. This computer-based system enables us to provide year which has increased our activities and revenue. A new bag lifter better care to aged residents by streamlining the documentation and was purchased for use in the Linen Service to improve our Occupational recording involved. Health and Safety measures and reduce the risk of injury to staff. System infrastructure improvements were carried out during the Our Food Services department distributed 241,000 meals to patients, year with the installation of a new backup server for the Information residents and external clients and catered for 10,000 functions across Technology department. our two campuses. At our Dimboola campus, seven staff completed Certificate III in Hospitality (Operations) this year. The graduates were A new intranet was developed to provide a range of information and all mature aged students and this achievement showed their dedication resources for staff use and knowledge sharing. In addition, our web to schedule study around their existing work and family commitments. site was redeveloped to improve the provision of information to our community and patients. A major overhaul of electrical switchboards at the Horsham Campus was successfully installed by the Engineering Department with minimal disruption to services. This year, the Environmental Services department participated in an external cleaning audit through Grampians Region Infection Control where we were rated 93.8 per cent, which is well above the expected average of 85 per cent for hospitals. We also conducted monthly internal cleaning audits.

Linen Services staff member Michael Kress, tries out the new bag lifter in the hospital laundry. Accreditation

Accreditation is a formal process to ensure delivery of safe, high quality This year we underwent a self assessment process with ACHS and met health care based on standards, process and outcomes. Wimmera all the required standards. Unannounced support visits were undertaken Health Care Group is proud to be fully accredited in Acute Services, by ACSA in the Wimmera Nursing Home and Kurrajong Lodge. All the Residential Care Services and Home and Community Care Services. standards reviewed at that visit were met. The Dimboola Campus also Independent agencies who assess Wimmera Health Care Group include: received an unannounced support visit in January 2009. At this visit they The Australian Council on Healthcare Standards (ACHS), The Aged were found to be non-compliant in Standard 1.3 Regulatory Compliance Care Standards Agency (ACSA), Home and Community Care and the relating to police checks for volunteers. The necessary information was Department of Health and Ageing. on hand and this was rectified immediately. A follow-up visit in June 2009 noted that there were no further issues of concern.

14 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 Occupational Health and Safety

Wimmera Health Care Group is committed to providing a safe work Communicating and Reporting of Risk environment for its staff, patients and visitors in accordance with the Victorian Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004. The key tool for reporting any risk is the incident report form (either electronic or paper) and all staff are encouraged to use this form to We consider the safety of patients and employees to be of utmost report risks to Department Heads and other key risk personnel such importance, and all endeavours are made to ensure accidents do not as the Clinical Risk Manager and Occupational Health and Safety occur. Several improvements have been made this year as follows. Manager. Processes outlined in the Incident Reporting Policy can be used for confidential and anonymous reporting of a risk if required. Security At the completion of activities undertaken to eliminate or reduce risk, As a result of funding provided by the Department of Human Services a quality improvement summary is completed and forwarded to the Occupational Violence Prevention Fund, 20 security cameras have Quality Manager. been installed throughout our Horsham and Dimboola campuses. Risks are controlled within Wimmera Health Care Group through It is expected that the cameras will deter unacceptable behaviour, a variety of means including: consultation with staff, completing capture criminal activity, provide evidence if required and assist in risk assessments, consulting with other agencies on how they have responding to incidents. A security service has also been employed to controlled the same or similar risks, implementation of appropriate work attend the Horsham campus from 8pm to midnight seven days a week, practices, introduction of mechanical aids, and replacing products with to provide a greater level of safety for staff working at night. safer products. Linen Service Hazard Assessment Audit The lifting of linen bags in the laundry was identified as a significant On 24th and 25th September 2008, CGU Insurance and Wimmera Health Occupational Health and Safety risk to staff. After commencing this Care Group completed an audit on physical hazards at both the Horsham program, we were able to reduce the hospital linen bag weights by an and Dimboola sites. average of 7kg. Using the scissor lift has reduced the height needed to lift the bags, as it can be adjusted to any height suitable to the employee, The physical hazard inspection was not intended to be exhaustive and and features emergency cut off switches to prevent jamming or crushing. not all Occupational Health and Safety risks were identified, only those identified on the days of inspection were included in the audit. Fire Training The purpose of the assessment was to provide Wimmera Health Care An online fire training package was purchased and made available Group with an overview of the identified hazards and outline where on our intranet, enabling Wimmera Health Care Group to train all improvements need to be made with policies and procedures in order staff. Between 16th February and 30th June 2009, 607 staff members to comply with the Victorian Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 completed this training. and the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2007 in relation to procedures such as manual handling, noise, falls prevention etc. The majority of information used for the audit was obtained following a site inspection and discussions with management, staff and employees. Workers Compensation Injury Body Location WorkCover insurance provides employers 25 insurance coverage for the costs of benefits for any workers who are injured or become ill 20 Linen Services staff member Michael Kress, tries out the new bag lifter in the hospital laundry. because of their work (as set out in the Accident 2005 to 2008 15 Compensation Act 1985). Wimmera Health 2005 Care Group monitors KPIs to identify areas of 2006 injury to staff so that these can be reduced by 10 2007 reviewing work practices and then modifying Claims TotalTotal Claims 2008 work practices or tasks to eliminate or minimise 5 the chance of injury to staff. 0 Education sessions for Departmental Heads

Eye Foot Knee Back Wrist Neck Head Hand

Ankle Foot Other

Stress Back Neck Head Elbow Hand have been held on Return to Work (RTW) Wrist Knee Ankle Other Stress Elbow Upper Leg Lower Arm Lower for staff and incident reporting. Flow charts Upper Arm Upper Leg relating to incident reporting and RTW have Upper Arm Body LocationLower Arm been developed and distributed to all areas, so that the correct processes are followed in the Workcover data event of an incident. The Occupational Health Year Remuneration Premium Claims Total Average and Safety Manager has undertaken the RTW / wages $ Paid costs paid Standard Claim co-ordinator’s training. (inc gst) $ Claims $ cost $ 2004/05 24,618,097 393,927 251,873 13 34,962 Total Claims 2005/06 26,159,671 434,081 129,508 11 24,084 2006/07 – 17 2006/07 36,360,567 451,154 234,993 11 47,914 2007/08 – 21 2007/08 28,716,067 529,503 148,592 16 44,711 2008/09 – 19 2008/09 33,090,000 591,243 51,748 9 41,891

WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 15 Our Staff

Senior Staff We are fortunate to have many senior medical staff and talented specialists working at Wimmera Health Care Group, including 20 in our Medical Services division, 38 in our Clinical Services Division and 117 Visiting Medical Officers. See the complete list of Senior Staff on pages 29 to 32. Staff Service Milestones More than 50 staff celebrated milestones in their working lives this year. We congratulate the following staff, and sincerely thank them for their Director of Clinical Services Don McRae serves lunch to nurses Joy Juma, Narelle O’Connor, significant ongoing contribution to Wimmera Health Care Group: Tracey O’Callaghan, Kerrie Burke and Robyn Lucas as part of International Nurses Day Celebrations.

30 years service 25 years service 20 years service 10 years service

Gay Baker Beverley Ackland Jenny Bull Leeann Barber Susan Burns Birgit Brown Kenneth Easson Julie Britten Helen Easson Debra Colquhoun Dianne Farnsworth Jill Cramer Helen Hartigan Lorraine Davies Denise Freijah Karyn Davidson Judith Hutchinson Dawn Dingwall Tanya King Sonia Harris Helen Greig Debbie Gill Kieran Loughran Cynthia Hill Anne Launer Catherine Haby Teresa Leach Craig Hollier Frank Marklew Janette McCabe Dianne McKenzie Hilton Jones Campbell Mitchell Jill Roberts Jillian Sordello Clare Lowe Marion Seater Alan Wolff Megan Stevenson Jennifer Noonan Susan Unger Bernadette Taylor Tracey O’Connor Naomi Uytdehaag Sally Taylor Margaret Swaby Wendy Wood Jennifer Vague Sindi Taylor Josie Waterfield Nicole Thornton Marina White Kerrie Trounce Anna Wilson Carol Webb Kristenn Wilkinson Sharon Zerbst

Workforce data disclosures

Labour Category JUNE 09 Current JUNE 09 2007/08 Month FTE YTD FTE Nursing 264.60 264.96 289.10 Administration and Clerical 77.33 73.31 72.15 Medical Support 24.13 23.03 26.17 Hotel and Allied Services 93.87 94.29 98.31 Medical Officers 4.50 2.95 3.00 Senior Dentist Dr Meral Layik and dental assistant Jacqueline Worpel attend to a patient at Hospital Medical Officers 13.05 11.78 12.85 the dental clinic. This year, they treated more than 7,000 patients. Sessional Clinicians 2.29 0.36 1.00 Merit and Equity Ancillary Staff (Allied Health) 42.37 41.06 38.10 Wimmera Health Care Group is an equal opportunity employer. Total FTE 522.14 511.74 540.68 Appointments are based on merit, without regard to race, gender, Total Number of Staff 728 728 841 religious belief or any other factor not related to the pursuit of • These figures exclude overtime and contracted staff excellence in patient care.

16 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 Staff Education Presentations Educating our staff and keeping their training up to date is vital. Staff have made a number of presentations during the past year, A range of education programs were organised for staff this year including: and particiatation rates were high. • Arnott, B (2008). Working alone in the community. Grampians Region General No of staff HACC Best Bractice Forum (November). Aged Care Channel 11 • Fraser, L (2008). Initiating Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion: confronting the challenges – a rural/remote model. Oral and poster AIMS 191 presentation at the National ADEA/ADS Conference for Endocrinologists Basic Life Support 10 and Diabetes Educators (August). Blood Transfusions 11 • Heily, M and Russell, A (2009). Clinical simulation provides basic EMR 35 resuscitation skill retention in medical students. Poster presentation and abstract at the Seventh Spark of Life International Conference in Fire and Evacuation 5 Hobart (May). Induction/Orientation 74 • Kerr, C (2009). Barkuma House: a community respite house providing Infection Control 204 innovative respite for carers of those with dementia. Presentation at No Lift 5 the 2009 Alzheimer’s Australia Conference in Adelaide (June). Oncology 15 • Scott, C (2008). Friendship City and Recruitment in China. Business Return to Work 28 Horsham presentation (July). Syringe Driver 24 • Scott, C (2008). The future direction of Wimmera Health Care Group. Australian Medical Association Victoria Conference Presentation Private Patients 25 (October). Diploma of Business (Frontline 6 • Scott, C (2008). Collaborative workshop to strengthen the local Management) medical and health workforce. North West Regional of Councils RWAV Diploma of Business (Human Resources) 4 (November). Total 648 • Taylor, S, McGrath, A and Wolff, A (2008). Measuring the Quality of Hospital Inpatient Care: using ‘all or none’ compliance with multiple Organisation-wide No of staff processes prompted by clinical pathways. Poster presentation at the Customer Service 454 National Forum on Safety and Quality in Health Care (Adelaide). On-Line Fire Training 607 • Wolff, A (2009). Using “all or none” compliance with multiple processes promoted by clinical pathways to measure the quality of inpatient care. HR Initiatives Presentation at the International Form on Quality and Safety in Health Care (Berlin), 20 March 2009. This year, considerable inroads have been made into ensuring that all existing and prospective staff can make use of our technology. Research With the redevelopment of our web site, prospective staff can now access position descriptions and apply for positions online. This is a Research is encouraged and supported at Wimmera Health Care Group. more streamlined process that increases our appeal to new staff and We are proud of our staff who have published academic literature this reduces administration required in our HR area. year including: Access to computers and the internet has been provided to all staff • McGrath, A and Macdonald, CR (2008). Quality frameworks for telephone with the provision of a dedicated open access staff computer terminal triage. Aust Health Review (Nov 2008), Vol 32, No 4, pp. 786-791. in “The Lunch Box”. Staff can now access all HR forms and policies on • Wolff, A and Taylor S (2009). Enhancing Patient Care: a practical guide the intranet. to improving quality and safety in hospitals. Published by MJA books. Industrial Relations There have been no industrial relations incidents this year.

Staff Development Manager Jeremy Akker (right) shows off some of the equipment in the Some of our Diploma of Business graduates. Clinical Skills Centre to Community Advisory Committee member Ken Shipsides. The centre is used as a training room for clinical staff.

WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 17 The Community that Supports Us

Wimmera Hospice Care Auxiliary Once again, the energetic team of people that make up the Wimmera Hospice Care Auxiliary have had a busy and productive year. Their major project for the year was to raise $12,000 to purchase replacement syringe drivers for hospice patients. This was achieved by holding their annual Christmas fair, Mother’s Day luncheon, Easter cake and biscuit stall and fashion parade. Wimmera Hospice Care appreciates the support of this dynamic group of people who put in many hours of hard work raising much needed funds to support this important program. Kurrajong Lodge Support Group The Kurrajong Lodge Support Group is a small team of dedicated community members who provide company and support to residents at Kurrajong Lodge Hostel. The hostel accommodates 36 residents, and Members of the Wimmera Wizards cycling team sporting their new Murray to Moyne team uniforms, proudly sponsored by Neverfail, Jayco Horsham, Simpsons – The Labour Hire the support group ensures that every resident is remembered on their Specialists, The National Australian Bank, Horsham T Life and Financial. birthday with a visit, birthday cake and gift. They also hold monthly afternoon teas, celebrating special events such as Easter, Christmas and Wimmera Health Care Group has strong links with the local community, the AFL grand final with our residents. who support us in our service provision. This group has held two major raffles and a fete during the year. There have been many individuals, business and community groups who They have refurbished the respite room and purchased new place have supported us over the past year providing substantial financial and mats for the three dining rooms. in-kind donations to Wimmera Health Care Group. We sincerely thank the support group for the important contribution Below is a snapshot of some of the groups who provide ongoing support they make to lives of residents at Kurrajong Lodge Hostel. to our organisation. Dimboola Campus Appeals Auxiliary Volunteers The Dimboola Campus Appeals Auxiliary has had another busy year. Volunteers play an important role in enhancing the services we provide. They continue to operate the Lochiel Wayside Stop, providing an Our volunteers are many and varied, ranging from musicians, cyclists, important service to the community. Unfortunately, the German Fest, church, auxiliary, support and community group members and many which is one of the auxiliary’s major annual fundraisers, was cancelled other individuals who undertake a variety of tasks. Each and every one this year due to a clash with the Anzac Day public holiday. of our volunteers is special and we thank them for sharing their skills, knowledge and time with us. This year the auxiliary purchased two medication trolleys, two shower chairs and a medication refrigerator for the Dimboola campus. This year, we have continued to develop our volunteer program. They also contributed to the Murray to Moyne Cycle Relay Team’s A centralised volunteer system has now been developed and we plan fundraising efforts directed towards the purchase of equipment for to survey all our volunteers, both individuals and groups during the a triage room at Dimboola. coming year to gain valuable feedback from them. Over the coming year, the auxiliary’s fundraising will focus on supporting Wimmera Base Hospital Ladies Auxiliary Wimmera Health Care Group to improve the hospital residence that is used to accommodate medical and clinical staff in Dimboola. The Ladies Auxiliary has worked hard throughout the year raising funds to purchase life saving equipment for Wimmera Health Care Group. Dimboola East Ladies Auxiliary The opportunity shop continues to be a very successful fundraising The Dimboola East Ladies Auxiliary has been operating for almost venture as are the traditional twice-yearly fashion parades that our 65 years and during that time, has contributed substantially to the community has come to expect. Dimboola campus. We are very grateful for two donations presented to us this year totalling During the year they held two morning coffee parties where Rob and $69,000 which allowed us to purchase two important pieces of equipment Di McKenzie came along and spoke about their overseas trip to the – an anaesthetic monitor and a resuscitation cot with neopuff. Middle East, Dubai and the Mediterranean countries. In September 2009, the Ladies Auxiliary will take on an exciting new Fundraising efforts this year have focused on the hospital residence, challenge running an in-house uniform shop for staff. This service will and a new bed, linen and other household items have been purchased. provide enormous benefits to the organisation and our staff. They also made a donation to the Murray to Moyle Cycle Relay Team. We thank them for their support of the Dimboola campus and their efforts to improve the hospital residence.

18 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 Murray to Moyne Cycle Relay Teams Communication Wimmera Health Care Group has two teams that ride in the Murray One of our key priorities is to educate people in the community to Moyne Cycle Relay each year. The Wimmera Wizards team rides about our organisation and keep them informed about the specifically for the Horsham campus. This year they raised more important services we provide. than $15,000, enabling us to purchase a Hovermatt and Hoverjack Strong links with the local radio and print media allows us to (inflatable lifting and transferring device) for our Horsham campus. do this. Over the past year we have issued more than 50 media The Horsham Cycling Club team raises funds for our Dimboola releases, all of which are available on our web site www.whcg.org.au. campus. This year they raised $5,000 for the purchase of Our services and upcoming events have also been extensively equipment for a proposed triage room at Dimboola. promoted via radio and print media. We sincerely thank Ace Radio Pty Ltd, ABC radio, Triple H Community Radio, the Weekly Advertiser, We thank both teams for their substantial fundraising efforts. the Wimmera Mail-Times and the Dimboola Banner for their Blue Ribbon Foundation ongoing support of Wimmera Health Care Group. The Horsham Branch of the Blue Ribbon Foundation has been in Thirteen thousand copies of our 2007/08 Quality of Care report operation for two years. During that time, they have raised $40,000 were printed and distributed to district residents through The for the purchase of lifesaving equipment for the resuscitation room in Weekly Advertiser newspaper and at our Annual General Meeting in our Emergency Department. This contribution will be matched dollar November 2008. for dollar by the Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation, making a Saying Thanks … total contribution of $80,000 to Wimmera Health Care Group. All donations to Wimmera Health Care Group are valued and A highlight for the Blue Ribbon Foundation occurred in June, when appreciated. In recognition of donations of $100 or more to Wimmera the resuscitation room in the Emergency Department was dedicated Health Care Group this year, we have published a list on page 32. to the memory of Constable George Howell, a police officer who passed away in the line of duty on 1st February 1952, aged 25 years. Wimmera Health Care Group has also received significant in-kind support during the year. There have been numerous fundraising events including the Murray to Moyne Cycle Relay, the Harrington Homes Blue Ribbon Foundation Gala Ball, fashion parades, cake stalls, fetes, auctions, garage sales and raffles. We sincerely thank all the local businesses, community groups and individuals who have provided in-kind support to this year.

Wimmera Base Hospital Foundation Foundation Donors The aim of the Wimmera Base Hospital Foundation is to raise All donations to the Wimmera Base Hospital Foundation are funds through donations and bequests to improve health care for appreciated and help to secure the long term future of Wimmera people in the Wimmera. Health Care Group. In particular, we acknowledge donations of $100 or more that were received this year. These are listed on page 32. The Foundation is overseen by a Board of Trustees who are independent of Wimmera Health Care Group. The trustees ensure The Wimmera Base Hospital Foundation Trustees recognise the the capital is invested wisely and the annual interest is distributed generosity of donors by awarding the following membership to support projects that will benefit patients, residents and clients titles: of Wimmera Health Care Group. It is important to note that every donation to the Foundation is retained in perpetuity. Patrons (donations of $250,000 and above) None to date Current Trustees of the Wimmera Base Hospital Benefactors (donations of $50,000 to $250,000) Foundation are: Mr Frank Lockwood • Mr Don Johns (Chairman) Horsham United Friendly Society • Mr Graeme Hardman Mrs J Clifford • Mr Bruce Johansen Mrs J Hardman • Mrs Jan John Mrs M Taberner • Mrs Denise Leembruggen • Mr Michael Ryan (Mrs Clifford, Mrs Hardman and Mrs Taberner have been awarded Benefactor status in recognition of having donated Charitable During the year, a strategic plan was developed to guide the Life Insurance Policies assigned to the Wimmera Base Hospital Foundation into the future. The coming year will see some major Foundation. The exact amount of their ultimate donation developments for the Wimmera Base Hospital Foundation as the is dependant upon their respective life expectancy and the new strategic plan is implemented. performance of the fund.) Member (donations of $5,000 to $50,000) HWF Van Dyk and Estate JAC

WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 19 Life Governors Wimmera Health Care Group values the significant contribution that many individuals make to our health service. Life Governorships are awarded to people whose actions or contributions have changed the organisation. This year, Mr Bruce Johansen and Mr Pawel Wajszel were awarded Life Governorship status. See below for a full list of current life governors.

Dr R Abud Mr D McFarlane Vale – Mr Robert (Bob) Mibus We were saddened by the loss of Mr Robert (Bob) Mibus who passed Mr I Anderson Mr W McGrath away on 21st May 2009. Bob had a long association with Wimmera Mrs M Baker Mrs L McKenzie Health Care Group and was awarded Life Governorship in 1996. He made an enormous contribution to Wimmera Health Care Group, particularly Mrs J Blythe Mrs R McKenzie as a Board member from 1986 to 1996, President from 1991 to 1992, and Mr N Bothe Mr W McKenzie more recently as Chairperson of the Community Advisory Committee. Mrs P Bothe Mrs J McRae Mr P Brown Miss M Menzel Dr E Brownstein Mr R Mibus Mr I Campbell Dr E Miller Mrs F Carine Mrs E Mitchell Mrs J Carter Mrs L Montgomery Mr M Castellucio Dr M O’Brien Mrs P Corner Mr K O’Connor Mr M Cuddihy Mr A Phillips Mr I Draffin Dr J Pickering Mrs S Driscoll Mr J Pietsch Mrs U Faux Mrs D Pilmore From left Des Martin, Lynne Fraser, A/Prof Fergus Cameron from the Royal Children’s Hospital, Dr P Haslau Mr P Robertson Dr Mary Brown and Mark Martin at the 10th Anniversary celebrations of the Diabetes Clinic in Horsham Miss B Hill Mr F Schultz Mr B Johansen Miss N Schurmann Rev A Johns Mis M Smith Mr D Johns Miss L Stenhouse Mr J Kemfert Mrs V Stenhouse Mrs C Kroker Mr P Troeth Prof R Larkins Mr P Wajszel Mr C Leith Mr A Walsgott Mr G Lind Prof R Webster Dr M Lloyd Mr A Wells Mr K Lovett Mrs J Wells Mr J McCabe Dr L Wong Shee Mr C McDonald Mr A Wood Nurse Lisa Maroske, tests out a new vital signs monitor on patient Jacob Walmsley. The monitor was donated to the Day Oncology Unit by the Friends All Riding Together motorcycle group.

20 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 Patient Statistics

Acute Inpatients

2008/09 2007/08 2006/07 Number of Beds 84 84 80 Admissions 11,368 10,349 9,833 Bed Days 24,669 23,427 23,466 % Occupancy 80.5 80.23 80.36 Separations 11,368 10,349 9,833 Average length of stay (days) including same day 2.17 2.26 2.39 Average length of stay (days) excluding same day 3.82 Deaths 84 99 89 Births 395 377 375 Operations 4,115 4,603 4,167 Same Day Patients 6,639 5,962 5,229 WIES 6,538 6,330 6,416 Source of Inpatient Admissions

Area 2008/09 2007/08 2006/07 Horsham Rural City 7,266 6,530 5,524 Yarriambiack Shire 1,538 1,694 1,771 Hindmarsh Shire 996 813 879 West Wimmera Shire 837 733 869 Other Victoria 665 615 731 Other 66 65 60 Total 11,368 10,450 9,834 Visiting Specialist Outpatient Clinics 2008/09

2008/09 2007/08 2006/07 Dermatology (various) 452 557 482 Ear, Nose and Throat 607 668 641 Low Vision 44 53 43 Obstetrics and Gynaecology 18 30 – Oncology 988 1,010 960 Ophthamology 1,140 960 1,020 Orthopaedic 1,241 1,334 1,778 Professors 16 24 24 Urology 1,107 1,198 1,057 Vascular 195 110 – Total 5,808 5,944 6,005 Wimmera Community Options – Linkages/Aged Care

Client Referrals 2008/09 2007/08 2006/07 Hindmarsh Shire 21 39 27 Horsham Rural City 86 68 84 West Wimmera Shire 20 10 22 Yarriambiack Shire 34 26 26 Out of Region 0 0 0 Total 161 143 159

WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 21 Patient Statistics

Wimmera Community Options – Carer Respite Centre

Client Referrals 2008/09 2007/08 2006/07 Hindmarsh Shire 29 14 30 Horsham Rural City 167 128 130 West Wimmera Shire 22 12 13 Yarriambiack Shire 36 41 46 Total 254 195 219 Wimmera Hospice Care

Activity 2008/09 2007/08 2006/07 Admissions 115 113 103 Discharges 112 122 101 Occasions of Service 8,359 7,692 7,217 Wimmera Centre Against Sexual Assault

Client Statistics 2008/09 2007/08 2006/07 Client Registrations 321 366 227 Crisis Care to Assault Victims (including after hours contacts) 64 95 97 Individual Counselling (telephone and face to face contacts) 523 506 585 Community and Professional Development Education 149 416 562 Advocacy 280 308 255 Group Work 852 749 –

Residential Services Dimboola Hospital

2008/09 2007/08 2006/07 Number of beds 26 26 26 Occupancy (%) 99% 91.39 99.10 Separations 13 12 10 Hospital Admissions 4 5 7 Kurrajong Lodge Hostel

2008/09 2007/08 2006/07 Michelle Coulthard with a medication trolley purchased by the Dimboola Number of beds 36 36 36 Appeals Auxiliary for the Dimboola Campus. Occupancy (%) 92.58 97.54 99.67 Separations 33 227 280 Hospital Admissions 28 36 19 Wimmera Nursing Home

2008/09 2007/08 2006/07 Number of beds 70 70 70 Occupancy (%) 84.97 99.45 98.88 Separations 79 124 158 Hospital Admissions 20 5 17

22 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 Day Centre HACC Programs

Clients Occasions Hours Planned Activity Group – High 195 3,901 18,267 Planned Activity Group – Core 209 1,990 11,269 Flexible Response 1 22 132 Volunteer Social Support 67 259 813 Total 472 6,172 30,481 Day Care Non HACC Programs

National Respite for Carers 31 629 3,611 Program Brokered Services 5 169 830 Total 36 798 4,441 Day Centre client Bruce Merrett with Zoe the golden retriever. Zoe is a much loved volunteer at the Day Centre.

District Nursing HACC Programs

Clients Occasions Hours Nursing 1,111 16,959 11,330 District Nursing Non HACC Programs

Clients Occasions Hours Hospital in the Home 19 389 453 Post Acute Care 90 1,523 1,139 Hospital to Home 26 506 424 DVA 93 4,748 1,724 Day Centre 2 242 125 Residential 12 209 99 BENETAS (EACH packages) 3 40 39 TAC 7 67 50 Workcover 4 28 23 Safety Link 91 113 208 Villa Maria 1 6 6 Wimmera Community Options 7 127 100 (EACH packages) St Laurence (EACH packages) 3 128 104 Continence (non HACC) 112 176 139 Wound care (non HACC) 39 69 65 Other Services 85 142 83 Total for HACC and Non HACC Programs

Clients Occasions Hours Total 1,705 25,472 16,111

WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 23 Patient Statistics

Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS)

2008/09 No High Care 82 Low Care 129 Funded Packages 66 General Assessments 76 Total 353 Sub-Acute Services (non-admitted patient services)

Client Services Group Attendances Community Rehabilitation Centre 5,766 277

HARP Chronic Disease Management Admissions No of Clients Chronic Respiratory Disease 24 36 Chronic Heart Failure 15 18 Diabetes 1 1 Complex Care Needs 14 28 Psychosocial and Complex Care Needs 18 21 Total 72 104

Primary Health and Support Services

Occasions of Service Outpatient Regional Group Group Domiciliary Visits Inpatient Emergency Activities Attendances Audiology 936 Community Nursing 548 3 32 Dental 7,023 3 73 152 Dietetics 581 85 920 20 1,900 Domiciliary Nursing 15 242 593 Emergency 17,100 Occupational Therapy 868 147 114 686 1,027 854 - Pharmacy (items 7,382 3,239 3,073 dispensed) Pharmacy (patient 3,142 1,876 1,881 occasions) Physiotherapy 5,279 140 200 1,300 171 4,484 Podiatry 3,758 49 44 251 84 Social Work 1,036 3 27 354 23 896 Speech Pathology 2,747 242 12 52 114 408 48 Total 33,300 581 503 3,659 2,199 13,893 22,102

24 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 Financial Overview

Wimmera Health Care Group is committed to ensuring the MAJOR EQUIPMENT PURCHASES 2008/09 $ organisation remains financially viable and stable into the future. To this end, the organisation has been somewhat Hakomatic 530 Scrubber 8,415 disappointed to report an operating deficit prior to capital Minuet Electric Tilt Beds x 2 4,830 items and depreciation for the financial year ended 30th June M7 Compact Beds x 25 102,626 2009 of $221,000 against a break-even budget. Operating revenue for the Health Care Group increased by 6.3% whilst Brownbuilt Shelving 15,070 operating expenditures increased by 7.5%. A number of Panasonic Whiteboard 2,704 factors contributed to this result. Chappee Boilers x 3 52,508 Due to the Commonwealth Government focus on managing Binocular Video Goggles 4,207 aged care in the home, together with the need to revamp our facilities, we have had a number of vacancies in our Vital Signs Monitor 3,881 Residential Aged Care facilities this year. This has negatively Fire Service Upgrade 18,660 impacted on our revenue with Commonwealth revenue being approximately $314,000 behind budget. This also had Protean 3 Bed 4,470 a corresponding impact on our Aged Care fee collection being MRQS software and 3 Scanners 60,010 approximately $83,000 behind budget. Many of the costs in Telemetry Units x 6 25,489 these areas are more fixed or overhead costs thus costs did not decrease proportionally. Volka Ultra Low Beds x 7 43,134 Salary and wage expenses increased significantly this year, Benq Projectors x 2 3,288 with an 8.1% increase on the prior financial year. This included Emergency Carts x 3 8,928 some increases due to Enterprise Bargaining Agreements. Viega Crimping Tool 5,298 It also included some new specialists being employed by Wimmera Health Care Group, improving our ability to offer Pearl Refrigerator 3,140 our community the services they require. Husqvarna Ride On Mower 6,800 The organisation was able to make some savings on Webster 3 Section Couch 3,099 Workcover costs during the year. Cisco Catalyst 3560 x 2 13,874 This year, Wimmera Health Care Group attracted significant Hovermatt x 2 14,401 capital funding again from the Department of Human Contour Patient Trolley 8,790 Services in order to complete various capital infrastructure requirements and to purchase vitally needed equipment. Contour Multi Trolley 11,646 The land and buildings of Wimmera Health Care Group were Intellivue Monitor x 2 26,560 re-valued this year, adding approximately $20,000,000 to our Suresigns Patient Monitor 9,427 asset base. Pagewriter Monitor 16,109 Wimmera Health Care Group is unaware of any events Sonsonite Ultrasound 52,608 subsequent to balance date that may have a significant effect on the operations of the entity in future years. TCP CCTV System 10,250 Dell Server 11,818 Webster 3 Draw Cart x 2 3,729 Patient Management Software 195,148 Air Conditioners x 6 28,643 Floorline Beds x 4 17,960 Ultrasound 89,850 Traction Table 3,127 Heat Sealer 5,100 Knee Exerciser 3,850 Gas Heaters x 2 5,543 Patient Lifters x 2 4,600 Vital Signs Monitor 2,587 Lift Beds x 4 10,631 Food Processor 3,954 Members of the Wimmera Wizards Murray to Moyne cycle relay team try out a new inflatable Hovermatt and Hoverjack they purchased for the Horsham Syringe Pumps x 10 21,500 Campus. The team raised more than $15,000 for Wimmera Health Care Group this year. Vital Signs Monitor x 2 6,829 TOTAL 955,091

WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 25 Financial Overview

2008/2009 2007/2008 2006/2007 2005/2006 2004/2005 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Where the Money Came From Government 50,681 48,236 48,343 45,280 43,232 Patients 4,156 4,079 4,026 3,618 2,701 Other 5,445 5,914 4,969 4,098 5,639 Total 60,282 58,229 57,338 52,996 51,572

How the Money Was Spent Salaries and Wages 39,032 36,496 33,313 31,538 29,861 Suppliers 17,609 18,802 20,883 19,869 18,274 Interest 54 61 71 73 70 Building and Equipment 2,807 1,372 1,778 1,899 2,793 Repayment of Borrowings 114 78 23 17 16 Total 59,616 56,809 56,068 53,396 51,014 Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash Held 666 1,420 1,270 (400) 558 Financial Total Revenue 59,841 56,268 50,552 50,035 47,834 Total Expenses 61,231 56,907 51,805 51,415 48,492 Operating Surplus/ (deficit) (1,390) (639) (1,253) (1,380) (658) Retained Surplus/ (accumulated deficit) (6,831) (5,327) (3,769) (2,273) (1,255) Total Assets 58,751 38,107 37,313 38,556 39,242 Total Liabilities 16,143 13,675 12,564 12,608 12,458 Net Assets 42,608 24,432 24,749 25,948 26,784 Total Equity 42,608 24,432 24,749 25,948 26,784 Fundraising *Donations 190,264 131,000 697,000 183,000 188,000

2008/2009 2007/2008 2006/2007 2005/2006 2004/2005 000 000 $’000 000 000 Service Activity and Efficiency Measures Untrimmed AN – DRG Weight 0.5800 0.6085 0.6524 0.6694 0.6564 Inpatient Costs – Acute $32,857,000 $30,080,000 $28,380,000 $25,533,000 $23,678,000 Inpatient Costs – Nursing Homes $10,651,000 $8,980,000 $8,474,000 $7,920,000 $6,865,000 Outpatient Costs $6,095,000 $6,315,000 $5,957,000 $5,602,000 $336,000 Cost Per Separation $2,924 $2,890 $2,886 $2,630 $2,462 Cost per Inpatient Day $1,332 $1,286 $1,208 $1,133 $1,134 Cost per Separation DRG Adjusted $5,155 $4,749 $4,423 $3,930 $3,751 Cost per Outpatient Occasion $55 $52 $48 $45 $43

* Includes donations to Wimmera Base Hospital Foundation

26 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 Compliance

Financial Management Act 1994 Declarations of Pecuniary Interest In accordance with the direction of the Minister for Finance, Part 9.1.3 All necessary declarations have been completed and duly noted at (IV), information requirements have been prepared and are available to the time of occurrence. Refer to note 18 of the financial statements. the relevant Minister, Members of Parliament and the public on request. Risk Management Attestation Consultancies I, Bonnie Thompson, certify that Wimmera Health Care Group has risk During 2008/09, there were no consultancies over $100,000. management processes in place consistent with the Australian/New There were 21 consultancies which were individually less Zealand Risk Management Standard and an internal control system than $100,000 and totalled $94,326. is in place that enables the Executive to understand, manage and satisfactorily control risk exposures. The Clinical Governance Committee Occupational Health and Safety verifies this assurance and that the risk profile of Wimmera Health Care In accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004, Group has been critically reviewed within the last 12 months. responsibility is accepted to be proactive and take reasonable practical measures to ensure health and safety, exchange information and ideas with staff about risks to health and safety and take measures to eliminate or reduce occupational risk. Signature Building and Maintenance Horsham 3rd September 2009 All building works have been designed in accordance with DHS Captial Development Guidelines and comply with the Building Act 1993, Building Whistleblowers Act (Interim) Regulations 2005 and Building Code of Australia 2004. Wimmera Health Care Group supports The Whistleblowers Protection Act Freedom of Information 2001 by encouraging and facilitating the disclosure of improper conduct to provide protection for persons who make these disclosures and to Wimmera Health Care Group has received 88 requests for information provide for the investigation of disclosures. under the Freedom of Information Act (1982) during the 2008/09 financial year. In one instance, no documents were available. Using discretion, Wimmera Health Care Group also complies with the legislation that Wimmera Health Care Group continues to promote a policy of giving agencies need to establish procedures and reporting systems including staff, patients and the general public access to information. identifying staff responsible for various roles. Competitive Neutrality The Human Resource Manager is the contact person to whom a whistleblower makes a disclosure. In the absence of the Human All competitive neutrality requirements were met in accordance with Resource Manager, the Chief Health Information Manager will act the requirements of the Government policy statement, Competitive as the contact person. Neutrality Policy Victoria and subsequent reforms. During 2008/09 there were no disclosures made to Wimmera Health Care Ex-Gratia Payments Group or referred to the Ombudsman, and no investigations undertaken. No ex-gratia payments have been incurred and written off during Attestation on Data Accuracy the reporting period. I, Bonnie Thompson, certify that Wimmera Health Care Group has put Victorian Industry Participation Policy in place appropriate internal controls and processes to ensure that the Department of Human Services is provided with data that reflects actual Wimmera Health Care Group complies with the requirements performance. Wimmera Health Care Group has critically reviewed these of the Victorian Industry Participation Policy Act 2003. controls and processes during the year.

Other Information In compliance with the requirements of the Standing Directions of the Minister for Finance, details in respect of the items listed below have been retained by Wimmera Health Care Group and are available to the relevant Ministers, Members of Parliament and the public on request (subject to the freedom of information requirements, if applicable): Signature (a) A statement of pecuniary interest has been completed. Horsham (b) Details of shares held by senior offices as nominee or held beneficially. 3rd September 2009 (c) Details of publications produced by the department about the activities of the entity and where they can be obtained. (d) Details of changes in prices, fees, charges, rates and levies charged by the entity. (e) Details of any major external reviews carried out on the entity. Authorisation of Compliance by Accountable Officer (f) Details of major research and development activities undertaken by the entity that are not otherwise covered either in the Report of Operations or in a document that contains the financial report and Report of Operations. (g) Details of overseas visits undertaken including a summary of the objectives and outcomes of each visit. (h) Details of major promotional, public relations and marketing activities undertaken by the entity to develop community awareness of the entity and its services. (i) Details of assessments and measures undertaken to improve the Occupational Health and Safety of employees. Chris Scott (j) General statement of industrial relations within the entity and details of time lost through industrial Chief Executive accidents and disputes, which is not otherwise detailed in the Report of Operations. 3rd September 2009 (k) A list of all major committees sponsored by the entity, the purposes of each committee and the extent to which the purposes have been achieved.

WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 27 Compliance and Disclosure Index

The Annual Report of the Wimmera Health Care Group is prepared in accordance with all relevant Victorian legislation. This index has been prepared to facilitate identification of the Department’s compliance with statutory disclosure requirements. Legislation Requirement Page Number Ministerial Directions Report of Operations Charter and Purpose FRD 22B Manner of establishment and the relevant Ministers Inside front FRD 22B Objectives, functions, powers and duties 9, 10 FRD 22B Nature and range of services provided Inside front, 13, 14 Management and Structure FRD 22B Organisational Structure 11 Financial and Other Information FRD 10 Disclosure index 28 FRD 11 Disclosure of ex-gratia payments 27 FRD 21A Responsible person and executive officer disclosures 62, 63 FRD 22B Application and operation of Freedom of Information Act 1982 27 FRD 22B Application and operation of Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001 27 FRD 22B Compliance with building and maintenance provisions of Building Act 1992 27 FRD 22B Details of consultancies over $100,000 27 FRD 22B Details of consultancies under $100,000 27 FRD 22B Major changes or factors affecting performance 25 FRD 22B Occupational health and safety 15, 27 FRD 22B Operational and budgetary objectives and performance against objectives 6, 21–24, 26 FRD 22B Significant changes in financial position during the year 25 FRD 22B Statement of availability of other information 27 FRD 22B Statement of merit and equity 16 FRD 22B Statement on National Competition Policy 27 FRD 22B Subsequent events 25 FRD 22B Summary of the financial results for the year 25 FRD 22B Workforce Data Disclosures 16 FRD 25 Victorian Industry Participation Policy disclosures 27 SD 4.2(j) Report of Operations, Responsible Body Declaration 8 SD 4.5.5 Attestation on Compliance with Australian/New Zealand Risk Management Standard 27 Financial Statements Financial statements required under Part 7 of the FMA SD 4.2(a) Compliance with Australian accounting standards and other authoritative 33 pronouncements SD 4.2(b) Operating Statement 36 SD 4.2(b) Balance Sheet 37 SD 4.2(b) Statement of Changes in Equity 38 SD 4.2(b) Cash Flow Statement 39 SD 4.2(c) Accountable officer’s declaration 33 SD 4.2(c) Compliance with Ministerial Directions 34 SD 4.2(d) Rounding of amounts 40 Legislation Freedom of Information Act 1982 27 Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001 27 Victorian Industry Participation Policy Act 2003 27 Building Act 1993 27 Financial Management Act 1994 27

28 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 Senior Staff Visiting Medical Staff

Anaesthetists DK Leung, MB, BS, FRACR JC De Kievit, MB, BS, Dip RACOG, FACRRM K Leung, MB, BS, FRACR KA Fielke, MB, BS, DA, FACRRM W Lim, MBBS, FRCR, FRANZCR JN Provis-Vincent, BMedSc, MB, BS, FACRRM YK Liu, MB, BS, FRACS GE Wajszel, MD, AMC J Makhijani, MB, BS, MD, FRANZCR JR Williams, MB, BS, DCH, DA, DRCOG, FRACGP M Miocevic, MHB, MBChB, FRANZCR Dermatologists JA Mullins, MB, BS, FRACR PA Foley, MB, BS, MD, FACD KM New, MB, BS, FRACR RD Sinclair, MB, BS, FACD, MD RM O’Sullivan, BSc, MB, BS, FMGEMS, FRANZCR MM Tam, MB, BS, FACD R Padmanabhan, MB, BS, FRANZCR BJ Tate, MB, BS, PhD, FACD J Ptasznik, MB, BS, FRACR J Yeatman, MB, BS, FACD J Richter, MB, BS, FRACR, DRACR Gastroenterologist J Robin, MB, BS, Dip Anatomy, Dip RACR GJ Phelps, MB, BS, FRACP, MBA WJ Rogers, MB, BS, FRACGP, FRACR AM Saks, FRANZCR Obstetricians and Gynaecologists A Scott, MB, BS, RACR P Moloney, MBBS, FRACGP, FRANZCOG GJ Smith, MB, BS, FRANZCR, MRI Fellowship M Hock, MD M Spanger, MB, BCh, FCRAD(D) Oncologist JW Stubbe, MB, BS, FRANZCR, DDR, MAICD G Kannourakis, MB, BS, B(MedSc), PhD, FRACP DPL Su, MB, BS, DMRD, FHKCR, FHKAM S Vaughan, MB, BS, FRACP, FRCPA, MRACMA PG Tauro, MB, BS, ECFMG, FRACP Ophthalmologist P Tew, MBBS, FRANZCR M Toohey, MB, BS, FRACO, FRACS P Walker, MB, ChB, CRCP, FRCPC, DDU Oral Surgeon SJ Ward, MB, BS, DRACR, FRACR, RACR (parts 1&2) GG Fowler, BDSc, LDS, MDSc, FDSRCPS RC White, MB, BS, FRACR Orthopaedic Surgeon CS Woodward, MB, BS, DMR, RACR J Patrikios, MB, BS, MS, FRACS CC Yu, MBBS, FRANZCR Otolaryngologists Surgeons M Guirguis, MB, BS, FRACS IA Campbell, MB, BS, FRACS N McConchie, MB, BS, FRACS TA Fisher, MB, BS, FRACS Paediatrician GSR Kitchen, MB, BS, FRACS G Pallas, B Med, FRACP H Koehler, MD Paediatrician- Endocrinology BT Stewart, MB, BS, FRACS F Cameron, MB, BS, Dip RACOG, FRACP, MD NA Strugnell, MB, BS, FRACS, MPH Paediatrician – Neurology Urologist M Mackay, MB, BS, Dip RACOG, FRACP, Dip CSCN RI McMullin, MB, BS, FRACS Paediatrician – Cardiology Regional Geriatricians S Menahem, MB, BS, MD, MED, MPM, MRACP, FRACP, FACC SJ Abrahamson, MBCLB, FAFRM, Grad Dip Clin Epi Pathologist J Hurley, MB, BS, DObst RCOG, MRCP(UK), FAFRM (resigned 30108) DAL Clift, MB, BS, FRCPA MW Yates, MB, BS, FRACP Physicians Regional Supervisor for Postgraduate Medical Education M Ebenezer, MBBS, MD DW Leembruggen, MB, BS, FRACGP, FAMA BR Möller, MD, FRACP Supervisor of Intern Training J Niall, MD, FRCP, FRACP DL Wilson, MBChB, MRCGP(UK), DRCOG(UK), Family Planning Cert(UK) Psychiatrist Medical Officers – Horsham Campus RA Singh, MB, BS, MD KL Archer, MBChB, MRCOG(Part 1), AMC, DRACOG Psychologist YP Cymbalist, MB, BS, DipRACOG ML Aitken, BA (Psychol), Grad Dip Voc Psychol, Grad Dip Mental Hlth Sciences CH Foord, MB, BS, Dip RACOG (Cog Behav Therapy) DA McG Jinks, MB, BS, Dip RACOG R Cairns, BAppSci, Grad Dip Psych, DPsych DW Leembruggen, MB, BS, FRACGP, FAMA C Waters, BA (Psych & Stat), BA (Psychology) GA O’Brien, MB, BS, DipObs, RCOG Radiologists MB O’Sullivan, MB, BS, Dip RACOG, DA, FRACGP JS Adler, FRACR, Dip Anaesth F Pretorius, MBChB, FRACGP ZE Ballok, MD, GP, AMCC, FRACP DL Wilson, MBChB, MRCGP(UK), DRCOG(UK), Family Planning Cert(UK) PC D Barrie, MB, BS, DRACR (parts I and II), ECFMG (USA), FRACR Wimbury, BSc MB Bch, FRACGP N Berlinski, MBChB, FRANZCR A Zakhary, MBBCh JLL Bester, MBChB, MFGP, BSc (Pharm), MMedRad(D) FRANZCR Medical Officers – Dimboola Campus CM Blecher, MB, BS, MRACR DW Boldt, MB, ChB, RANZCR, RANZCR B Gilbert, MB, BS, MPH, FAFPHM, FSIA, FAIM C Bryant, MB, BS(Hons), DDR, MRACR, FRACR PP Haslau, MB, BS, FRACGP JM Cameron, MB, BS, FRANZCR J Pickering, MB, ChB, FRACGP JN Chamberlain, MB, BS, D(Obs)RCOG, MRACR, FRACR, DRACOG Visiting General Practice Registrars MMK Choong, MB, BS, DRACR, FRACR KJ Graham, MB, BS, DRANZCOG KC Chuah, MB, BS, DRACR (parts 1 & 2) D Sood, MB, BS JD Crowe, MB, BS, FRANZR Dental Officers M Datta, RANZCR R Barnes, BDSc A Eimany, MB, BS, FRANZCR (parts 1 & 2), DDU (part 1), DR II (MM) S Estifo, BDSc AD Felber, MB, BS, FRACR, DDR R Jing, BDSc PE James, MB, BS, FRANZCR, MM M Layik, BDS, PhD Period, ADC CR Jones, MB, BS, FRANZCR, MBA SF Smith, BDSc AB Kapoor, MB, BS, FRCR, MD BG Sonnberger, BDSc T Khalil, MBBS, FRANZCR PS Klejn, MB, BS, FRACR Director of Medical Services / Director of Accident JHY Kuan, MB, BS, FRANZCR

WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 29 Senior Staff Medical Division

And Emergency Department Medical Librarian AM Wolff, MB, BS, MD, Dip RACOG, FRACGP, MBA, S Mewett, ALAA MRACMA, FCHSE Clinical Risk Manager S Taylor, RN, RM, HDNC, B Nurs, M App Mgt (Health) Director of Anaesthesia Audiologist GE Wajszel, MD, AMC T Rayner, BScDipAud, MAudSA(CCP) Chief Occupational Therapist Director of Surgery K Coats, BAppSc(OT), Acc OT GSR Kitchen, MB, BS, FRACS Chief Pharmacist L Pham, BPharm (resigned 28/06/09) Supervisor of Surgical Training B Inkster, BPharm (returned from maternity leave 29/06/09) IA Campbell, MB, BS, FRACS Chief Physiotherapist Visiting Physicians – Echocardiology D Kingan, BSc (Phyt) (resigned 14/07/08) H Roberts, BSc (Phyt) (commenced 10/11/08) CS Allada, MB BS, FRACP Chief Podiatrist JH Van den Broek, MB, BS, FRACP, DDU S Coats, B Pod, MAPA Consultant Physician – Palliative Care Chief Social Worker BSocWk DJ Brumley, MB, BS, FRACGP, MSc, FAChPM S Glover, Chief Speech Pathologist Consultant Physician – Nephrology L Mason, BAppSc (SpPath) J Richmond, MB, BS, FRACP Chief Dietician P Marshman, BSc, Grad Dip Diet Hospital Medical Officer Chief Health Information Manager G Exell, BSc (AppSc) B Farr, B HIM

RESIDENT MEDICAL STAFF Interns N Rajadevan, S Bhaskaran, O O’Brien, Z Valaydon, G Ukalovic, A Neal, D Liu, P Kailainathan 25/08/08 – 02/11/08 R Jacobs, C Lu, Y Gu, J Yao, N Sharma, K Burn, N Hooper, A Rajkomar 03/11/08 – 11/01/09 A Ashrafi, B Shadur, D Ballantyne, D Liew, J.Chua, V Sutton, W Ross, N Jamshidi 12/01/09 – 29/03/09 S Robison, S Kalus, A Gauden, M Ameratunga, C Yannakou, B Privett, K Ruhl, J Epstein 30/03/09 – 14/06/09 A Voskoboinik, A O’Sullivan, S Livesey, D Fisher, L Marley, E Peska, A Wilson, V Sharma 15/06/09 – 23/08/09 Surgical Registrars L Liu, J Russell 03/02/08 – 03/08/08 T Furlong, P Verma 04/08/08 – 11/01/09 T Toshnival, A Ow 12/01/09 – 15/02/09 J Ryan 16/02/09 – 02/08/09 Medical Registrars S Yap, E Tho 23/06/08 – 03/08/08 J Moi, T Ong 04/08/08 – 31/08/08 M Alamgeer, K Low, S Moran 01/09/08 – 16/11/08 G Yip 06/10/08 – 16/11/08 S Barnes, E Holbeach 17/11/08 – 28/12/08 T Lin 29/12/08 – 01/02/09 G Samarajah, J Chee 02/02/09 – 19/04/09 S Ket, A Arumugaswamy 20/04/09 – 28/06/09 A Hadj, A Poon 29/06/09 – 06/09/09 Emergency Registrar J Leslie 17/02/08 – current

30 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 Senior Staff Clinical Services Division

Director of Clinical Services Residential Services Manager – Horsham Campus D McRae, RN, MHMgt, RM, Grad Dip Crit Care, CC Cert, MRCNA, AFCHSE J Pymer, RN, B H Sc Mgt, Cert Gerontology, Cert QA (resigned 16/01/08) Nursing Operations Manager L Bartels, RN, Grad Cert Mid, Grad Dip Hlth Sc Mgt, Grad Cert. Geron Nurs P Muszkieta, RN, MBA, B Nurs, Cert Steril & Infect Control, HDNC, Cert IV (commenced 25/05/09) WTA, MRCNA Nurse Unit Manager – Dimboola Campus After Hours Co-ordinators L Bartels, RN, Grad Cert Mid, Grad Dip Hlth Sc. Mgt, Grad Cert Geron Nurs K Chilver, RN (commenced 25/05/09) K Hinch, RN Care Continuum Project Officer J Hopper, RN M Bryce, RN, Grad Cert Aged Serv, Grad Dip Aged Serv. Mgt., M Hlth Sc L Hoskins, RN (resigned 30/01/09) M Huebner, RN, RM, B Nurs, CC Cert T Daffy, RN (commenced 20/04/09) JW Richards, RN, B Nurs, Cert Microcomp Bus Software Clinical Nurse Consultant – Diabetes Education B Ryan, RN, Grad Dip Crit Care L Fraser, RN, RM, Cert Diab Ed S Swaby, RN, HDNC B Taylor, RN, RM, B Nurs, HDNC Koori Hospital Liaison Officer J Thomson, RN K Galpin K Walsgott, RN, Grad Dip Midwifery, Periop Cert Aboriginal Best Start D Wickham, RN, RM N Illin J Wood, RN, B Nurs Community Health Nurse Staff Development Officer N Smith, RN, BN, Grad Dip Nsg (Anaesth & Recov), Cert IV WTA, Adv Dip J Akker, RN, B Nurs, Grad Dip Inten Care Nurse Bus Mgt (resigned 17/04/09) Clinical Facilitator Pre-admission Clinic K Wilkinson, RN, BHSC., MN (clinical ed) (resigned 27/03/09) T Daffy, RN (resigned 20/04/09) S Pickett, RN, RM, MN (commenced 20/04/09) K Burke, RN (commenced 18/05/09) Admission and Discharge Co-ordinator P. Dodson, RN, B Nurs, Grad Dip H Mgt, HDNC (resigned 11/05/09) J Templeton, RN ACAS – Assessment Clinician H Torey, RN, Grad Dip Comm Heath, Assoc Dip Health Sci (Rehab Counselling) Clinical Pathways Co-ordinator A McGrath, BHSc, MHSc Nurse Unit Manager – Emergency Department J Chalmers RN, RGN, RMN Clinical Nurse Consultant – Infection Control J Spencer, RN, RM, Cert Steril & Infect Control Nurse Unit Manager – Operating Suite/Day Procedure Unit/CSSD M Markby, RN, HDNC Grad Cert Anaesthetics & Recovery Room Nursing Nurse Unit Manager – Oxley (Surgical/Medical/ICU) J McCabe, RN, M App M (Health), Crit Care Cert, FRCNA Nurse Unit Manager – Yandilla (Midwifery,Paediatrics) H Jones, RN, RM, MPH-Trop Med, B App Sc (Adv Nurs), Dip App ScN Wimmera Hospice Care Co-ordinator A Hayes, RN, Dip Comm H Nurs, FRCNA Wimmera Community Options Manager A Tuohey, RN Sub Acute Services Manager A Richards, RN, RM, B H Sc (Mgt), Cert Micro Comp Bus Software, AFCHSE Nurse Unit Manager – District Nursing Service B Arnott, RN, Cert High Dep, Adv Dip Bus Mgt, B Nsg Post Regn Primary Care Manager J Scarlett, RN, Ass Dip Hlth Mgt (commenced 14/07/08)

WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 31 Senior Staff Senior Staff Corporate Services Division Administrative Services Division

Director of Corporate Services Chief Executive S Eldridge, B Bus (acc), MBA, CPA CG Scott, B H Sc (mgt), MBA (CSU), AFCHSE, AIMM, CHE Finance Manager Community and Private Patient Liaison S Bell, FCPA (resigned 21/01/09) Officer H Symes B Bus (Acc/Law), CPA (commenced 03/02/09) S Frankham, Cert III Mtg & Event Mgt (commenced 11/08/08) Engineering Services Manager Human Resources Manager P Crammond, Dip Eng Mech, MIHE Aust D Pinyon, AFAHRI, Cert III Man, Cert IV WTA Environmental Services Supervisor OH&S Security Manager D Queale M Mellington, Dip OH&S, Cert IV WTA Food Services Manager Quality Manager / Consumer Advocate T Patten, QualChef, Adv Cert Hosp Studies W James, RN, RM, B Nurs, IBCLC, MBA Supply Manager D Tonissen, Cert AHSPO, Cert Hosp Supp Mgt Wimmera Group Linen Services Manager R Dumesny, Cert Comp Applic Information Technology Manager K Loughran, BSc, Dip Comp Sc P Brennan, B Comp (acting from 02/02/09)

FOUNDATION DONATIONS GENERAL DONATIONS OF KLM Concreting Pty Ltd Kurrajong Lodge Support Group OF $100 OR MORE $100 OR MORE Lambert, Mr John Ballinger, Mrs Audrey Adelphian Craft and Hobby Shop Leppard, Dr Robert Delahunty, Mr Hugh Angley, Mr Ronald Leskie, Robyn Dumesny, Mrs Jenny Armstrong, Dr Roger LOCKS Constructions Fryar, Mr Ian and Mrs Heather Argall, Mrs Maureen McCabe, Mrs Janette Glare, Mrs Daphne Barnes, Dr Ross McDonalds Family Restaurant (Horsham) Haslau, Dr Peter Blue Ribbon Foundation (Horsham Branch) McIntyre, Mr John Hayes, Ms Anne Breuers United Pty Ltd KcKenzie, Mr Murray Johns, Mr Don and Mrs Jo Cec Hopper and Sons Mentone Grammar School Kilderry, Mr Joshua Commonwealth Bank (Dimboola Branch) National Australia Bank (Horsham Branch) Leembruggen, Dr David and Mrs Denise Coltzau, Mr Dudley Neverfail McKenzie, Mrs Lesley Curtains by Robyn Creek Probuild Constructions Miller, Miss Jennifer Delahunty, Mr Michael Ross Both and Associates Miller, Mr George Dick Wilson Ford Pty Ltd Sellars, Mrs Catherine Neubecker, Mrs Val Dimboola East Ladies Auxiliary Sibson, Mrs Dianne Ryan, Mr Michael and Mrs Margaret Dimboola Hospital Appeals Auxiliary Simpsons, the labour hire specialists Shade, Mr Kerryn Dimboola Performing Group Sonego, Mr Neville and Mrs Christine Smith, Mr Noel and Mrs Doreen Dimboola Town Committee St Peter’s Lutheran Guild Bargain Centre (Dimboola) Thwaites, Mrs H Driscoll, McIllree and Dickinson Storey, Mr Lockie Tursi, Mr Franz and Mrs Rhonda French, Mr Daryl Trainor, DA Estate Whicker, Mr David Friends All Riding Together Uebergang, Mrs Joan Winfield, Mr Geoff and Mrs Lyn Galagher, Mrs Kit University of Ballarat (Horsham Campus) Grimmett, Mr David Williams, Dr Roger Hansen, Mr Wimmera Base Hospital Ladies Auxiliary Health Financial Pty Ltd Wimmera Base Hospital Past Trainees and Associates Healthwise Pharmacy (Horsham) Wimmera Design and Print Horsham Cycling Club Wimmera Hospice Care Auxiliary Horsham Lighting and Decor Wimmera Wizards Horsham Sports and Community Club Horsham T-Life Jayco Horsham

32 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 Financial Report

WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 33 34 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 35 36 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 37 38 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 39 40 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 41 42 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 43 44 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 45 46 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 47 48 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 49 50 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 51 52 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 53 54 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 55 56 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 57 58 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 59 60 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 61 62 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 Service Directory Our Profile

Wimmera Health Care Group is based in the Wimmera sub-region of the Grampians, 300 km west of Melbourne and in close proximity to the Grampians National Park. With a budget of approximately $59 million, Wimmera Health Care Group is the major specialist referral centre for the Wimmera and Southern Mallee region of Victoria. Our campuses in Horsham and Munyip Dimboola service an area of 61,000 square kilometres and a population Dimboola Murtoa of approximately 54,000. Rupanyup Horsham Our Horsham campus employs over 600 people and features 84 acute, 70 high care and 36 low care residential beds. The campus at Dimboola employs 60 staff and has four acute, 22 high care and four low care residential beds. Wimmera Health Care Group also takes management responsibility for the Dunmunkle Health Service under a formal service agreement. Wimmera Health Care Group provides a range of emergency, critical care, residential and primary care services for adults and children. This year, we treated more than 11,000 inpatients, 17,000 emergency patients and 33,000 outpatients. Horsham The Wimmera Health Service was established in 1874 as the Horsham Hospital and was incorporated by the authority of the Hospitals and Charities Act (No. 5300) on 27th August 1877. Ballarat Melbourne In 1950, the name was changed to Wimmera Base Hospital and, following the formal amalgamation with Dimboola District Hospital on 1st November 1995, became officially known as Wimmera Health Care Group. Our Services and Programs

Aboriginal Best Start Geriatric Evaluation Management Pre-Admission Clinic Acquired Brain Injury Support General Medicine Pulmonary Rehabilitation Adult Day Activity/Support General Surgery Radiology Aged Care Assessment Haemodialysis Rehabilitation Assessment Alzheimer’s Association HARP Residential Services Antenatal Classes Health Promotion Respite for Carers Anticoagulation Hospice Care Safety Link Audiology Hospital in the Home Social Work Breast Prosthetics Hostel Accommodation Speech Pathology Breast Screening Infection Control Spinal Clinic Cancer Support Intensive Care Unit Stomal Therapy Cardiac Rehabilitation Koori Hospital Liaison Officer Stress Testing Clinic Centre Against Sexual Assault Lactation Consultant Team Midwifery Cognitive Dementia and Memory Low Vision Clinic Teleradiology Colposcopy Clinic Medical Imaging Ultrasound Community Rehabilitation Medical Library Urology Computer Tomography (CT) Midwifery Ward Video Fluoroscopy Continence Neonatal Nursing Wimmera Community Options Day Oncology Obstetrics and Gynaecology Wound Care Day Surgery Occupational Therapy Dental and Prosthetic Clinic Oncology Dermatology Ophthalmology Diabetes Education Oral Surgery HOW TO CONTACT US… Dietetics Orthopaedics p: 03 5381 9111 District Nursing Orthotics Laboratory f: 03 5382 0829 Domiciliary Midwife Pacemaker Clinic e: [email protected] Ear, Nose and Throat Paediatric Care m: Baillie Street, Horsham, Victoria 3400 Echocardiography Pathology w: www.whcg.org.au Emergency Department Pharmacy Endoscopy Physiotherapy Family Planning Podiatry Cover Image: Surgeons, Dr Heinz Koehler and Mr Graham Kitchen in the operating suite at Gait and Balance Clinic Post-Acute Care Wimmera Health Care Group where 4,115 operations were carried out this year. p u o r G e r a C h t l a e H a r e m m i W

2008 u n n A 9 0 / 8 0 0 2 2009

a Annual Report o p e R l r Incorporating: t Wimmera Base Hospital Dimboola Hospital Wimmera Nursing Home Kurrajong Lodge Hostel

Baillie Street Horsham Victoria 3400 p: 03 5381 9111 f: 03 5382 0829 e: [email protected] w: www.whcg.org.au A Marketing Business Production 7902 Production A Marketing Business WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09 63 64 WIMMERA HEALTH CARE GROUP ANNUAL REPORT 2008/09