Upper Murray Health & Community Services
www.umhcs.vic.gov.au
Our Vision, Mission & Values
Our Vision Our Vision is for better practices that lead to better health and a sustainable future.
Our Mission Our mission is to work with our community for a responsible and innovative framework of sustainability that supports sound social, economic and environmental health practices.
Our Values At UMHCS we recognise the importance of understanding our community’s needs and for being accountable for responding to them. In doing so we will demonstrate a capacity to: • Continue to engage with our community in decisions relating to community needs and the delivery of services. • Act with integrity and be socially just and equitable in the planning, development and delivery of services. • Be sensitive to and sustain our environmental, economic and social resources. • Respect each other and embrace the diversity that exists within our community and use language that is inclusive. • Attract, develop and retain great people. • Continuously learn and improve all aspects of our service. • Support our community to understand their rights and responsibilities and have access to genuine complaints resolution processes. • Develop and sustain partnerships that will benefit our community. • Provide a team approach to the continuum of care that facilitates access to local, regional and specialised services. • Have fun and maintain a healthy work life balance.
Our History The origins of the Health Service date back to 1897 when plans to build the Corryong Cottage Hospital were conceived.
In 1902 the foundation stone was laid for what then became known as the Victoria Cottage Hospital. In 1916 the foundation stone of the present hospital was laid. Over the years, the number of acute beds rose to its peak of forty-two in the 1960’s and on 5th November 1983 the Upper Murray Nursing Home, a 20-bed high aged care facility, was opened.
In the early 1990’s the Agency took the opportunity to apply to be funded under the Multi-Purpose Program. This was to enable a more flexible and responsive service to be developed that would met the changing needs of our isolated rural community. In 1995 the Services was renamed Upper Murray Health & Community Services and commenced operation as a Multi Purpose Service (MPS).
Today, Upper Murray Health & Community Services is a highly integrated and considerably larger organisation providing a broad range of hospital, residential aged care, medical and primary health and community support services. The service also operates a Medical Clinic, Health and Fitness Centre, Retirement Village and the Australian Institute of Flexible Learning, which is a Registered Training Organisation.
Our Health Service is truly responsive to the communities needs.
Responsible Ministers We acknowledge the assistance and direction of Department of Health and the Department of Health & Ageing. The Honourable David Davis, MLC, Minister for Health and Ageing The Honourable Mary Wooldridge, MLA, Minister for Mental Health
2 2 Table of Contents
Foreword ...... 4 Board of Management ...... 5 Senior Staff ...... 6 UMHCS Organisational Structure ...... 7 New Doctors and Dental Services ...... 8 New Director of Client Services and Graduate Nurse Program ...... 9 New Towong Alliance partnership ...... 10 Continuum of Care / TeamSTEPPS project ...... 11 Mock Evacuation and My Health My Life! ...... 12 Australian Institute of Flexible Learning ...... 13 Ultrasound equipment ...... 14 Medical Centre ...... 15 Health & Fitness Centre ...... 16 Community Emergency Relief Food Bank ...... 18 Mental Health ...... 20 Home and Community Care Review Project ...... 21 Home and Community Care Active Service Model Implementation Plan .. 22 Counsellors ...... 23 Carer Support Group ...... 24 Falls Prevention ...... 25 Capital Improvements ...... 26 Community Liaison Group ...... 27 Day Activity Centre ...... 28 National Volunteers Week Celebrations ...... 29 Acute Auxiliary Presidents Report and Corryong Swim Relay Challenge 30 Acute and Residential Care Team ...... 31 Aged Care Team ...... 32 Social Worker and Conference Presentations ...... 33 Service Levels ...... 34 Statistical Days- Monthly Totals 2011/12 & Staffing Return ...... 35 Comparative Financial Analysis, Revenue Indicators, Assoc. Services ... 36 Debtors Outstanding and Donations & Contributions ...... 37 Staff Academic Achievements ...... 38 Services Provided at UMHCS ...... 39 Legislation ...... 40 Compliance ...... 42 Operational & budgetary objectives & performance against objectives ... 43 Disclosure Index ...... 44 3 3 Foreword
Gathering information for the annual report is always a time to pause and reflect on past years performance and if we achieved our goals. It is also a time to ensure that we stay focused on doing what we say we will.
Summary of 2011/2012 achievements • Implementation of the Towong Alliance with Towong Shire, Tallangatta Health Service and Walwa Bush Nursing Centre • Full accreditation for both the Medical Clinic and UMHCS • Commencement of a Dental Service at UMHCS • Inaugural year of Rural Placement Graduation Nurse Program with Albury Wodonga Health, Tallangatta Health Service and UMHCS • Dementia Friendly kitchen project funds • Replacement of the old telephone system to new wireless phone and Nurse Call System • Commencement of the new Doctors in our Medical Clinic • Master planning project • Another successful financial year
It is also a time to thank the many people who help us to achieve our goals. From staff members to volunteers and groups such as the Ladies Auxiliary, the Community Liaison Group (CLG), Foodbank and Volunteer drivers. We are particularly endebted to you for your continued support. Thank you to each and everyone who has been associated in any way large or small, along our journey. The Corryong district is richer for your input.
In particular I would like to praise Sister Pat George for her dedication to the community. This year Sister Pat announced that she will be stepping down from her Health Advocate role and Chair of the CLG. This will give her time for her pastural role at Sacred Heart and in the community. Sister Pat always goes about her work in a quiet, supportive way, her skills will be sadly missed. In recognition of Sister Pat’s uniqueness UMHCS will not replace the Health Advocate role instead ‘ramping up’ the compliments and complaints and feedback mechanisms to the community through the CLG, postcards in the community and feedback boxes.
UMHCS has seen some other significant staff changes in the past year. Sharon Nicholas, Deputy Director of Nursing and Quality Safety Risk Manager resigned to spend more time with her children and enjoy farm life. Sharon’s input into our successful accreditation in October was evident, we thank her for her assistance in achieving full accreditation with Quality Improvement & Community Services Accreditation (QICSA). Sharon was replaced by Chris Stuart. Chris’s role is Director of Client Service, incorporating Community Services, Medical Clinic and Acute and Aged Care Services. Chris has extensive international and metropolitan nursing experience. We wish Chris a long and successful role at UMHCS. Nicole Martin has moved from Community Health Services Co-ordinator to Quality Safety and Risk Manager. Nic’s experience in Allied and Community Health is a great background for this extensive and challenging role.
Mary Hoodless retired in December 2011 to set up her own consultancy business. Mary’s leadership at the Australian Institute of Flexible Learning (AIFL) contributed to the success of the registered training organisation both for the local community and
4 4 other states. Currently UMHCS is building partnerships with other Registered Training Organisations (RTO’s) and Health Services to extend the scope and capacity of the AIFL.
UMHCS maintained full compliance for accreditation in the Medical Clinic in February 2012 with Australian General Practice Accreditation Ltd (AGPAL) and in the Health Service with Quality Improvement & Community Services Accreditation (QICSA). These external accreditations occur every 3 years and although stressful for staff, can be a good tool for future areas for improvement.
Maxine Brockfield Graham Hill Chief Executive/Director of Nursing Board Chairperson
Board of Management
The role of the Board is to make informed choices about our health service on behalf of the community. I would like to thank all Board members for their efforts and support over the past 12months. They have taken on extra duties, further education and have given valuable input into a number of Board sub committees and extra meetings.
Particularly I would like to pay tribute to Board Chair, Graham Hill, who has served UMHCS continually since 1998. This is a purely honorary role and one which entails countless extra hours and consultation. Thank you sincerely on behalf of UMHCS staff and the community.
Board member’s name Year joined board Committees Graham Hill 1st July 1995 Asset & Audit, Chair 1998 – current Community Liaison Group, Medical Credentialing Pamela Menere 1st July 1997 Asset & Audit, Treasurer 1999- current Community Liaison Group, Community Health Service Development Mark Clayton 1st July 2009 Asset & Audit Rhonda Ruddick 1st July 2010 Community Health Service Development Quality Safety Risk, Health & Fitness Centre Sue Sullivan 1st July 2011 Quality Safety Risk, Community Liaison Group Ashley Brown 1st July 2011 n/a Jane Wilson 1st July 2012 n/a
Left to right: Pamela Menere, Mark Clayton, Rhonda Ruddick, Jane Wilson, Graham Hill, Ashley Brown (absent: Sue Sullivan) 5 5
Senior Staff
Chief Executive/Director of Nursing: Mrs Maxine Brockfield RN, Cert. Mid, Grad Dip App Sci. CHS (M&CH) Grad Dip Bus M’Ment, FACNM, AFACHSE
Director of Community Services / Until 31st December 2011 General Manager Australian Institute Mrs Mary Hoodless Of Flexible Learning (AIFL):
Director of Client Services: From January 2012 Ms Christine Stuart RN, Masters of International and Community Development.
Deputy Director of Nursing / Until October 2011 Quality & Risk Manager: Mrs Sharon Nicholas
Quality Safety & Risk Manager: From November 2011 Mrs Nicole Martin Bachelor of Health Science – Occupational Therapy
Nursing Unit Manager: Mrs Sharon Edmondson Bachelor of Nursing, Grad Dip. Health Services Management
Director of Medical Services: Mr Craig Winter MBBS, GMQ, FACEM, MBA
Senior Medical Officers: Dr Richard Barkas MBBS (Sydney), FRACGP, FACRRM, DRANZCOG
Dr Paul Dodds MBBS (Hons) (MON), FACRRM, DRANZOG
Until October 2011 Dr Robert Hennessy
From February 2012 Dr Nicholas Mason MBBS (Hons), B.Med. Sci, DRANZCOG
From February 2012 Dr Hannah Mason MBBS, B.Med. Sci, DRANZCOG MPH.
6 6
UMHCS Organisational Structure
AIFL, Course Co-ordinators, Teachers, Student Admin / Support Staff
Community Services Team: Health Promotions, Youth Services, Community Development, Health & Fitness Centre, District Nurse, Palliative Care, HACC, Day Activity Centre, Mental Health, Counselling, Social Work, Financial Counselling and Allied Health Director of Client
Services Acute & Residential Services, Nursing Unit Manager, Acute - High Care Residential, Low Care Residential Practice Clinical Nurse Consultants, General Practice, Manager Medical Imaging, Reception Staff
COMMUNITY Quality & Risk Manager Quality, Safety and Risk BOARD OF MANAGEMENT Director of CHIEF DIRECTOREXECUTIVE/ NURSING OF Medical Senior Medical Officers Services Support Services- Information Technology, Health Information Manager, Finance Officer General Administration Staff Maintenance Officer Maintenance, Gardens and Grounds Staff Hospitality Services Catering and Cleaning Staff Co-ordinator
7 7 New Doctors arrive in Corryong
In February our new doctors Nick and Hannah Mason, plus their daughter Lila, moved to Corryong.
Nick and Hannah are job sharing but with the addition of baby Joseph, Nick is working full time at the moment. We welcome the Mason family and wish them a long and happy relationship with the Corryong District – a sentiment we are sure Doctors Paul Dodds and Richard Barkas echo.
Left to right: Nick, Lila and Hannah Mason
Photo courtesy of the Corryong Courier.
Dental Services
This year saw the fulfilment of another long standing community need with the commencement of dental services through Kreativ Dental. From May 2011, Dr Baisani and Dr Chowdhry and dental nurses visit Corryong 2 days a fortnight to carry out local dental work.
The board generously supported this development to enable the service to commence by meeting the initial set-up costs of over $70,000. Albury Wodonga Health (AWH) donated a second hand dental chair which was gratefully received.
The next phase of the dental program is to attract a hygienist and dental therapist for our school children. We are currently in discussions with AWH and Dental Services Victoria, for this to occur.
To make an appointment please contact Kreativ Dental direct on 0451 134 171.
Kreativ Dental team, Dr Chowdry and Dr Basani with Dental Assistant Jess 8 8 New Director of Client Services
Chris Stuart, the new Director of Client Services, was appointed in January 2012 and has now settled into the role and getting a handle on what it’s like to work in an Australian rural setting. Her previous roles have included remote work in aboriginal communities, Primary Health Care in Indonesia and the Middle East as well as Humanitarian Work for Oxfam and Red Cross.
“I have never actually worked in a normal rural community before and after Dubai, I was desperate to breath fresh air, walk in the open and to have some seasons. Corryong is just beautiful and I have been pleasantly surprised by the very high level of expertise in some health related disciplines amongst the staff and I have much to learn from them”, Chris said.
One of the main objectives Chris wants to achieve in the first twelve months is to improve access to our community services and to streamline the appointment system, so that client centered care is our first and foremost priority.
Chris Stuart Director of Client Services
Graduate Nurse Program
As part of our workforce development strategy, UMHCS is involved in the Rural Placement Graduate Nurse Program. We partner with Albury Wodonga Health (AWH) and Tallangatta Health Services (THS).
Five graduate nurses rotate between the three organisations. There are three rotations of 4 months each. This gives the graduate nurse an experience in a number of different areas. After the 12 months placement, we are hopeful that some graduates will stay at UMHCS, this way we will increase our Registered Nurse numbers. Our Clinical Nurse Educator, Fiona O’Toole, is leading this project.
We are looking forward to a second cohort of Graduates in 2013 as the project enters it’s second year.
9 9 New Towong Alliance partnership
Improvements to health service delivery in Towong Shire through a collaborative approach to planning and development has been identified in a report presented to the Towong Shire Health Alliance. The report prepared by consultant, Dr Tom Keating, outlined how the Tallangatta Health Service (THS), Upper Murray Health & Community Services (UMHCS), Walwa Bush Nursing Centre (WBNC) and Towong Shire (TS) could work together in areas such as staffing, training and developing aligned systems.
The four agencies face similar challenges including the recruitment and retention of staff, limited resources and a shortage of skilled professionals as well as the significant limitations of functioning in a rural and remote location.
Towong Shire Mayor, Cr Debi Gadd, said “Following the presentation of the report each of the agencies, together with the Victorian Department of Health, have committed their support and an officer has been appointed to co-ordinate and facilitate recommendations from the report.”
Manager Community Health and Wellbeing, Ms Mel Sporry, will work closely with each of the partners to implement strategies and projects that have the potential to enhance health service delivery across Towong Shire. Ms Sporry commenced working with the Alliance in November 2011.
“This significant commitment by the agencies involved recognises the potential for a collaborative approach to improve health and wellbeing outcomes for the Towong Shire community,” said Cr Gadd. “The State Government is focused on improving health service delivery through integrated planning and support from the Department of Health has been crucial in the development of the Towong Health Alliance”.
One of the Alliance’s first collaborative projects will be the “Healthy Ageing Demonstration Project” that aims to improve the health and wellbeing of senior citizens. Also we will be developing a Shire Planning tool for the next Community Needs Assessment which will inform the Shires “Municipal Health & Wellbeing Plan”. From this document each organisation will develop their own service plans for service delivery. The constructive relationship for all services has led to a number of collaborative projects, with a view of improved health outcomes for our community.
From left to right: Mel Sporry (Manager Community Health & Wellbeing Towong Shire), Robyn Gillis (CEO Tallangatta Health Service), Maxine Brockfield (CE/DON Upper Murray Health & Community Services), Sandi Grieve (CEO Walwa Bush Nursing Centre)
Article courtesy of the Corryong Courier 9th Feb 2012 10 10 Continuum of Care / TeamSTEPPS project
The TeamSTEPPS project ended in May 2012 with a final presentation to the Victorian Quality Council regarding outcomes of this project that saw UMHCS as one of five pilots sites across Victoria.
TeamSTEPPS is a program that equips staff with enhanced communication and team skills as part of a broader strategy to enhance patient safety. The project at UMHCS saw two tools developed aimed at improving communication and teamwork amongst our staff. The project developed, trialed and sustained a new format for exchanging patient/resident information at nursing handover, which has reduced handover time by ~ 50%, thus allowing time for an in-service education program to be developed and maximise the double staffing time in the ward. The project also developed a number of tools using this format for use around the agency to encourage a standard format for presenting or sharing patient information, for example phone message pads prior to referring a patient to a service provider. A second documentation project has evolved from this part of the TeamSTEPPS project.
The second tool used from TeamSTEPPS was the development of the Whiteboard meeting, which occurs three times a week in Acute. This meeting has enhanced team work within the multidisciplinary care team providing care for those in our community with chronic and complex conditions, improved communication and role accountability within the team. It also provided a time efficient alternative to the previous weekly meeting. The project ensured care provision and planning was client centered and driven as the client’s goals and planning is documented by the care team.
There were also some unexpected outcomes of this project. Some staff highly valued some of the other tools and philosophies that were taught as part of the project. This was particularly evident with the conflict resolution skills. Staff are encouraged to use these skills as part of their self management of any conflict and report increased confidence. It is hoped that using these tools will become ingrained through the development of new policies and procedures to guide staff. Improved communication regarding client care or work planning is occurring with staff actively initiating ‘huddles’ to convey important client information and review patient care or workload issues.
So although the TeamSTEPPS project has officially finished, the project team will continue to develop and maintain many of the strengths this project has allowed us to grow to improve the care of our clients.
Left to right: Joy Gadd, Jenna Bond, Lorraine Carkeek, Sharon Edmondson, Chris Stuart, Heidi Chard and Catherine Gayton at Whiteboard meeting
11 11
Mock Evacuation
On Wednesday 17th August, seventeen local CFA volunteers under the direction of Captain John Pitman, attended a ‘mock’ evacuation at Upper Murray Health & Community Services.
The exercise was most successful with after hours supervisor Kerry Renn as Fire Warden for the Health Service and John Pitman organising the CFA on the night.
The activity involved some CFA members in full breathing apparatus and others checking the bulk gas tanks and fire alarm system. The nursing staff carried out a mock evacuation and fire drill.
CEO, Maxine Brockfield, thanked the CFA for their support in this exercise. “It was a cold, wet night and the CFA engaged in the process with the Health Service to the mutual benefit of both organisations.” She said, “It is reassuring if we have a real emergency that we are all familiar with our respective roles.”
John and Maxine agreed that the fire drill was beneficial for both groups and have organised to have similar ‘mock’ events on a regular basis.
My Health My Life!
MY HEALTH MY LIFE! HEALTH COACHING & CHRONIC DISEASE SELF MANAGEMENT. Managing a chronic disease is a complex process which can be overwhelming for people. UMHCS has a range of strategies to support clients to manage effectively. The MY HEALTH MY LIFE! Program is one of the new strategies being delivered to people managing chronic disease to improve their health outcomes.
The four week program uses a client centred approach, and focuses on goals of treatment, a healthy life, making changes, symptom management, communicating with health professionals and dealing with emotions.
After four group sessions, participants are matched with a personal health coach. Health coaches encourage and support participants in implementing their new strategies and health behaviours in their home and community setting, with encouraging outcomes.
Participants report increased readiness to make small lifestyle changes, better understanding and use of medications, and a reduction in stress. A thorough evaluation will be undertaken in partnership with Melbourne University later in 2012.
12 12
Australian Institute of Flexible Learning (AIFL)
The Australian Institute of Flexible Learning (AIFL) has continued to grow and meet most of the key performance indicators identified in the Strategic Plan 2010-2013.
Partnerships continue to be extremely important in the delivery of qualifications particularly across the Eastern States of Australia. Central Gippsland Health Service is a significant partner with staff upskilling across a number of disciplines with both eRecognition and full course modes of delivery. The online/on the job traineeships with Koori students have again been successful, currently with five trainees enrolled. We expect some of this cohort of students to complete their studies in December. The trainees are supported by their coordinator Sue King, their clinical rotation allied health professionals and the AIFL supports their online work, as well as weekly teleconferencing and site visits.
Left to right: Tina Towers, Kayla Kennedy-Hills, Kaylissa Trewin and Sue King (coordinator)
Addiction, Intervention and Recovery Services (AIRS) continues to be an important partnership with a number of students undertaking qualifications in Certificate IV Alcohol and Other Drugs and Diploma of Counselling. AIRS deliver face to face qualifications using the AIFL as their preferred Registered Training Organisation (RTO). Outcome focus (Queensland) continue to use the AIFL to deliver the Diploma of Management qualification.
During Volunteer week the AIFL successfully delivered Certificate I in Volunteering to UMHCS volunteers and volunteers in the community free of charge to acknowledge their contribution to our community.
Upper Murray Health and Community Services staff are supported in their mandatory training and competencies as well as a number achieving national qualifications through the AIFL.
13 13
Ultrasound equipment installed
Specialist ultrasound equipment has been installed in Corryong following a successful funding application to the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing’s National Rural and Remote Health Infrastructure Program.
For the first time UMHCS can offer a full range of general, gynaecologic, obstetric, vascular and emergency ultrasound services without the need to refer patients to Albury-Wodonga.
This equipment will be of enormous benefit to the Corryong community saving many patients the three hour round trip to Albury-Wodonga.
The equipment has the potential to save lives, assisting with the diagnosis of life threatening conditions far earlier than what is currently the case.
Towong shire partnered with UMHCS to secure the funding of over $200,000.
Cr Peter Joyce, Towong Shire Mayor, reported, “We congratulate UMHCS for their tireless effort in making sure that the community receives the best health services available.”
The old dark room The ‘transformed’ Ultrasound room
14 14
Medical Centre
The Medical Centre has enjoyed the continued stability with services provided from our two General Practitioners (GP’s) Dr Paul Dodds and Dr Richard Barkas. The departure of Dr Robert Hennessy in October 2011 meant the Centre was again down one full time GP. UMHCS were delighted with the appointment of husband and wife team Dr’s Nicholas & Hannah Mason who began consulting in February 2012.
All doctors continue to provide after hours services with one weekend per month being sourced from Dr Peter Radford at Benalla, or a doctor on-call arrangement with Albury Wodonga Health Service. These weekends are also advertised in the Corryong Courier to provide accurate information to the public.
The service provided by our Practice Nurses continues to be an invaluable community resource. Elise Wilson and Lorraine Carkeek’s credentials in Women’s Health along with their individual nursing skills play a major role at the Medical Centre. The care they provide through their ongoing Wound Management, Immunisation, Health Coaching and Asthma Education is beneficial to our community. Throughout the year they hold information sessions at the local schools and continue to provide clinic support to the GP’s with the performing of dressings, Spirometry, ECG’s, Ear Syringing along with Health Assessments and assisting with the Care Plan Program.
Denise Johnston has again provided her services as our resident Diabetes Educator. With an increase in our ageing community and a rise in chronic disease, Denise’s cliental has expanded as she provides health coaching and preventive care as a major part of role at the medical centre.
Care Plans have become a large part of the centre’s push for recognising chronic disease and administrating preventative patient care. Through the use of these plans referrals are made to other UMHCS Allied Health services such as, Physio, Adult Mental Health, Podiatry, Dietician, Diabetes Education and now Dentistry which has been recently added to the UMHCS umbrella.
The team of Jill Boers, Kaye Conway and Heidi Chard continue to provide our District Nursing service to the community. This team facilitates ongoing care for the community by way of wound care and home assessments, which provides our GP’s with accurate assessment of our clients in their home environment.
External services have been maintained and continue to be invaluable to our local community. These include: Ͳ Dr Warren Hall - General Surgeon providing endoscopy & clinic sessions monthly Ͳ Dr Andrew Rechtman – Pediatrician consulting bi-monthly Ͳ Emilia Barrows – Mental Health Clinician consulting monthly Ͳ Dr Mary-Ann Lancaster Female GP – Rural Flying Doctor Service
15 15 Health & Fitness Centre
Corryong Health and Fitness Centre continues to strive to meet its goal of “providing people with access to a range of health promotion, fitness and recreational activity programs in a safe, accessible, friendly, well equipped and community managed health and fitness centre.” All gym users are encouraged to become members of the gym, and there are currently 161 members. There are over 550 client contact hours at the gym each month. This adds up to 6600 exercise opportunities over the year, which is a significant number in a small community such as ours. The gym is especially popular when climate extremes prohibit outdoor activity.
Current programs are – Tai Chi, Strong People Stay Young (now 4 classes per week), Power Bar, Fun and Fitness Cardio, Backs and Bellies, Healthy Start exercise for over 50’s, Cardio Circuits and Make a Move Falls program. Childcare is available three times a week. Lighten Up to a Healthy Lifestyle is a new program delivered to two groups of 20 over the past year with effective results in achieving a healthy weight, increasing exercise and reducing stress.
Improvements in 2012 The Gym received a facelift in the past year, thanks to a troupe of volunteers who tackled the job of repainting the two big rooms in the September 2011 holiday break. It was a massive task, especially the high ceilings which previously been painted dark brown and took several coats to cover. New curtains, clean carpets, and hey presto! The gym looks wonderful. In May 2012 the kitchen and children’s play area was painted in bright colours along with the toilets which now look fresh and clean. A new treadmill, exercise bike and cross trainer have been purchased, along with a significant amount of smaller equipment. The two public access computers are now installed in the kitchen, thanks to the Public Access Internet Project. Gym clients are delighted with the new defibrillator machine installed. The machines are incredibly easy to use, and all class members have been trained to use it.
In November 2011 the Gym celebrated its 10th birthday in its current site, an event attended by 50 happy gym users who are ageing positively due to regular exercise and social connections established in the gym.
Promoting a healthy workplace UMHCS aims to reduce chronic disease by promoting healthy lifestyles and improving the environments in which our people live and work. A healthy workplace reduces sick leave and staff turnover and increases productivity and participation.
16 16 UMHCS aims to promote worker health and wellbeing though a range of voluntary programs. The Workout at Work strategy encourages all staff to combine 15 minutes of work time with 15 minutes of break time to meet the National Physical Activity guidelines of 30 minutes exercise most days of the week.
Heart Foundation Walking groups have been running since October 2009, with staff walking groups operating most week days, led by volunteer walk leaders. This strategy has been most successful with office based staff in sedentary roles.
Staff Gym memberships: Discounted Gym memberships are offered to all staff to encourage physical activity. There are currently 41 staff members of the gym.
UMHCS Smokefree Workplace strategy was implemented in January 2010, with a range of supports in place to assist staff to be smoke free during work time.
Mini Triathlon goes off with a splash Over a hundred people enjoyed a brilliant summer morning of physical activity at the Corryong pool on Sunday 19th Feb. They participated in four very different events, designed to enable participation:- King and Queen of the Hill, Mini Triathlon, Mystery Fun Walk and Iron Boy and Girl events. Thanks to Towong Shire Festivals and Events grant, UMHCS and the generosity of local businesses.
Phillip Hulm congratulates his son Cam on winning the ‘King of the Hill’ event
Junior iron girl/boy competition
Start of bike leg of the mini triathlon
Dave Perry on transition from swim to run leg.
Junior Iron boy bike event Petrina Hewatt & Stacey Miller competed in the individual event 17 17
Two 10,000 steps Workplace Challenges were conducted over the past year to increase awareness of physical activity through use of a pedometer over a period of 8 weeks. All participants reported increased motivation to “Move More” as a result of the challenge. The 2011 winning team of Jenna Bond, Gay Erikson, Heather Stockwell and Maxine Brockfield walked 2,279kms towards better health, while Deb McNamara romped ahead of the pack as the top individual walker, clocking up an impressive 1,055kms. The Active Autumn Challenge was run in the foggiest, gloomiest May – June in memory, yet the winning team of Deb McNamara, Kate Wheeler, Elise Hill and Lyn Sorbello were able to rack up 1,996kms together, with Deb coming in just ahead of Brenda Whitehead in the individual performances.
10,000 steps team and Gay Erickson, Jenna Bond & individual trophies Maxine Brockfield – 10,000 steps winning team.
Community Emergency Relief Food Bank
The Corryong Food Bank continues to grow in strength through the energy of Volunteer Coordinator Carol Allen, and her band of hard working volunteers. The Food Bank provides supplementary food supplies to people experiencing what is known as “Food Insecurity”
The causes of “food insecurity” are varied, but include: a lack of resources (including low fixed incomes such as Centrelink payments and other factors such as transport); lack of access to nutritious food at affordable prices, lack of access to food due to geographical isolation; and lack of motivation or knowledge about a nutritious diet. Food insecurity is a serious issue as it can seriously affect health outcomes for all ages - including children's academic ability and longer term health issues including obesity, diabetes and heart disease.
The Food Bank plays a key role in improving the food security of clients. All prospective clients are assessed for eligibility by UMHCS staff, who provide information and referral on other services and supports available to ensure that the underlying causes of food insecurity are addressed over time.
Carol Allen coordinates volunteers to undertake various roles from unpacking the delivery trucks to shelving and distributing goods to clients. Most goods are supplied by Vic Relief and supplemented by generous local donations of bread from Food Works and milk from Murray Goulburn. St Vincent de Paul funds are used for meat
18 18 and transport costs. Sacred Heart school families donated tins of fish during Lent, with locals making regular donations of surplus fresh produce.
Achievements in the past year include: • Twelve volunteers are registered with UMHCS and have complied with police check requirements. • 90% of Food Bank clients use the services of the Financial Counsellor and report better financial management and less stress. • Food Bank Kitchen has been refurbished with stainless steel shelving, pantry, stove, lino and appliances. • Weekly group lunches are enjoyed by all volunteers, prepared by volunteer cooks, utilising food from the Food Bank. • Eleven Food Bank volunteers trained in Food Handling, with new aprons and hats to increase compliance with food handing requirements. • Volunteers have participated in a range of other training programs including Mental Health First Aid, Certificate 1 in Active Volunteering, computer courses and other capacity building strategies. • The Food Bank garden is under development. Our summer garden provided a very useful supplement to our fresh vegetable supply. Thanks to the Neighbourhood House for their donation of two more raised garden beds. The service is a powerful partnership between UMHCS, the Minister’s Association and St Vincent de Paul, and operates out of the Scout Hall in Strezlecki Way on Thursdays from 10am – 1pm.
Volunteers getting their hands dirty in the Food Bank garden
19 19 Mental Health
What is mental health? This can be a very puzzling and confronting question for many. The truth is we all have mental health just like we all have physical health. Mental health is about the way we think and feel about ourselves and our world. It's our ability to love, work and play in an ever changing environment. This involves how we handle our everyday lives, like making and keeping friends, keeping up with work and responsibilities, and getting along with our family.
As with our physical health, a number of psychological, environmental, social and biological factors can interfere with our mental health and lead to problems.
The prevalence of mental health conditions in rural and remote Australia is probably equivalent to the levels in our major cities. However, there is evidence that rural Australians face greater challenges in accessing services to obtain timely help, so that the burden of associated disease is proportionately higher. People in rural and remote areas have lower levels of access to specialised mental health services.
Feelings such as anxiety, irritability, sadness and loss of energy or motivation, affect most people at some stage in their lives. People experiencing these feelings may get through the crisis without needing professional help. However, it is sometimes difficult for people to overcome emotional or behavioural difficulties, and this may affect their ability to care for themselves or their dependents, to socialise, to work or to study. All mental health problems can be treated or at least lessened in their severity and - as with many physical health problems - it is better to receive treatment early.
Two issues become very important when considering one’s mental health:- 1. Recognition that there is a persisting problem 2. Where and how to get appropriate, timely help.
Mental Health First Aid Mental Health First Aid is a training program available locally. This course is for everyone. It teaches the skills to recognise symptoms of mental illness and where to go for help. The course has been delivered 3 times in the past year with 21 people trained. There has been wonderful feedback from all participants and some great stories on how they have put their new found knowledge into action. More of these courses are planned and open to everyone.
Mental Health Help Locally Your GP should be your first contact, however, UMHCS has a mental health team which includes a credentialed mental health nurse. This means that the nurse has demonstrated to the College of Mental Health Nurses that she has advanced, specialist training, practice development and commitment to ongoing professional education in the mental health field. The team also includes a nurse with a Diploma in Mental Health Nursing. Access to a Generalist Counselling and a Social Worker is also available.
20 20 Home and Community Care (HACC) Review Project
The Home and Community Care (HACC) Program provides a range of basic support services to frail older people and people with disabilities who are experiencing difficulties in managing daily tasks but who wish to continue living at home. The Program also supports their carers and families. A review of our HACC services involving consumers, staff and other stakeholders was completed in October 2011 allowing us to compare our service delivery and administration against current industry standards and new emerging policies. This was timely as it allowed our HACC Team to further work towards 100% achievement of the Active Service Model (ASM) Implementation Plan and embedding this into everyday practice whilst streamlining administrative processes. Our overall vision was to get our HACC Co-ordination and administration functions right and responsive to our stakeholder needs. In December 2011 HACC employed an Administration Officer, thus freeing HACC Co-ordinator time to effectively assess and/or review current and potential HACC clients in a timely manner. The Administration Officer and Co-ordinator have worked closely together to review systems and improve processes ensuring overall a better service for clients and more user friendly HACC environment for staff. A review of changes to occur after July 2012.
Primary Care e Communications Initiative: Successful funding submission July 2011 for HACC
As part of our HACC Review Project UMHCS was successful in gaining a grant aimed at allowing Upper Hume PCP agencies the opportunity to access a small grant to implement wireless technology which enables remote access to client management systems (CMS), the Service Coordination Tool Template (SCTT) and secure electronic referral.
Nicole Martin, our Community Services Co-Ordinator at the time, was also invited to be a member of the e-communications project board that determined which projects would received funding based on their ability to meet the requirements and demonstrate how the purchased electronic devise would make staff administration time efficient and effective whilst not impacting on the client’s experience.
UMHCS has purchased a grey slate tablet which has been used by HACC staff to complete in house assessments and reviews and family meetings on the acute ward. This devise is compact and allows staff to hand write details which are then “typed” into a readable format ready for immediate printing. In the past staff have had to hand write notes, return to the office, type them up and then return a copy to the client. A compact printer has also been purchased as part of the project to allow in house printing for clients to received an immediate copy.
It is anticipated that this type of process could be utilised in many applications across the agency, to reduce duplication for clients while making the overall gathering of data and care plan development processes for staff more efficient and effective. Use within health promotion and client education is two other potential areas.
21 21 Home and Community Care (HACC) Active Service Model Implementation Plan Project
The Active Service Model (ASM) is a quality improvement initiative which explicitly focuses on promoting capacity building and restorative care in service delivery. The core elements of the Active Service Model are: - capacity building, restorative care and social inclusion to maintain or promote a person’s capacity to live as independently and autonomously as possible - a holistic person and family centered approach to care that promotes wellness and active Participation in goal setting and decisions about care; - timely and flexible services that respond to the person’s goals and maximise their independence; and collaborative relationships between providers, for the benefit of people using services.
The first implementation task for HACC funded agencies was the development of an ASM initial agency implementation plan for 2010-2011. The plan was to focus on identifying a summary of strengths, challenges and opportunities the organisation could see in moving to an ASM approach, then propose key priorities and strategies for action by 30 June 2011.
Our plan has been developed using team meetings, relevant organisational forums such as our Continuum of Care meeting, discipline specific consultation and workshops with key stakeholders from managers through to the HACC staff who are on the ground actively seeing our potential ASM clients. Case studies have also been used to guide our planning approach. HACC staff have received training and HACC Management have also attended relevant training and information days to for implementation of the ASM. The key issues that emerged through the development process for our plan in pursuing an ASM approach were:- • Review of HACC service - review documentation to include , clients goals as main focus, increased information in home based care plans for the HACC worker to better understand ability of clients, tasks sheets to clearly define the workers tasks • Review client review processes - to include , documented evidence of timely client reviews and involving HACC workers in review process • Educate Community - to include slow stream education in way of local media, facts sheets and direct verbal contact via service providers • Education of Staff - education sessions have occurred to wider UMHCS and Walwa Bush Nursing Centre (WBNC) staff
The Active Service Model of care is ongoing and is included as a regular item on relevant meetings such as the bi-monthly HACC meetings. Implementation of common goal orientated care plan for all clients are now in place, feedback forms are in use from HACC workers & clients for increased communication, systems are in place that allows automatic client review dates to occur, HACC staff are included in the review process. The HACC “It’s about YOU” “How Home and Community Care services can help you” pamphlets will be used for ongoing community education.
22 22 Counsellors
A Generalist Counselling service is available, by appointment, every Tuesday and Wednesday in the Community Services Building at UMHCS. This service is provided by Carol Grigg who joined UMHCS as part of the Mental Health Team in early September 2011. Carol has a Diploma in Counselling, is a Member of the Australian Counselling Association and a Graduate Member of the Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors. Carol also brings with her the experience of long-term involvement in support and therapy groups in Sydney for family members of individuals who have mental health issues, Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome.
The role of a Counsellor is to support clients emotionally while they work through situations in their lives that have caused them emotional distress or made it difficult for them to cope. Every day ordinary people confront situations such as personal anxiety, relationship strain and breakdown, stress, parenting challenges, loss of employment, pressure at work, bereavement of someone dear, change in circumstances, trauma, abuse, depression, accidents and other losses and difficulties. It is a rare person who can manage these kinds of challenges and crises in their lives effectively without some form of emotional support.
A counsellor offers clients empathic, non-judgmental support, assisting them to explore ways of easing their distress or find new ways of approaching any difficult situations they may be experiencing. Sometimes it may be more appropriate to refer a client on to another worker in our Team or Health Service, or perhaps to a visiting service that can better meet their need.
Additional to this General Counselling service provided by UMHCS, a visiting Financial Counsellor is also available to assist clients to better manage personal finances, debts, bills, government benefits and budgeting.
To make an appointment for either service, clients can phone UMHCS on (02) 6076 3200, the Mental Health Team on (02) 6076 3297, or phone Carol Grigg on (02) 6076 3202 and leave a message. All counselling services are free of charge, but please bear in mind that appointments are only available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
23 23 Carer Support Group
The Carer Support Group provides information and support to people who identify themselves as Carers, who are providing support and assistance to either a family member, friend or neighbour. The support group is led by Upper Murray Health & Community Services (UMHCS) Social Worker. Regular contact with the Carers known to UMHCS is made either by telephone or face to face, together with mail outs of information and invitations to attend social and educational activities or sessions. Support and assistance is also available with Carer application forms or accessing respite.
In 2011- 2012 the following Carer activities were offered: • Carers Victoria Information session and morning tea (May 18th) attended by 10 Carers. Topics included: Finding out more about Carers Victoria, their services and support and Looking after yourself - information on the impacts of caring, how Carers can tend to their own needs and seek help if they need it. Using humour to cope with caring.
• Luncheon and information session at the local hotel on June 29th sponsored by Carer Support Options from Upper Murray Family Care. Information about what respite services were provided by their service. Attended by 12 Carers.
• Carer Pamper Day – 14th October 2011, attended by 15 Carers This was a fun day dedicated to providing a relaxing day with new ideas for relaxing and rewarding yourself. Carers enjoyed a lovely luncheon supplied by a local café and funded by Villa Maria.
• Christmas party - Friday 16th December 2011 Held at Day Activity Centre, attended by 10 Carers Good company, good fun and good food was enjoyed by all.
• Villa Maria luncheon - Wednesday the 29th February 2012 Held at the Court House Hotel, attended by 15 Carers. Topics included what type of respite is funded by Villa Maria and who could apply. Attendees were given take home backpacks filled with lots of important information in case of emergency.
Future events include movie and lunch at a local venue funded by Villa Maria, for all Carers.
UMHCS also maintains an up to date data base and mailing list of people who have identified themselves as Carers. More information is available by contacting Lea Klippel, Social Worker by phoning (02) 60763200.
24 24 Falls Prevention
Falls occurring in older persons have the potential to cause substantial impact on health and well being. Falls can result in fractures and other serious injuries from which an older person may not fully recover and may lead to loss of independence and residential care. Falls are estimated to occur in 1 in 3 older persons living in their home and rates of falling increase with age. There are other risk factors for falling including use of medications, medical conditions and gender. Importantly, having had a fall is a risk factor for further falls. Many Injurious falls occurring in older people result in hospitalisations and considerable cost to the health system.
At UMHCS fall prevention is a fundamental part of our care. In response to new guidelines and research, a multidisciplinary team of nurses, occupational therapists and physiotherapists has reviewed fall prevention policy and procedures at UMHCS to ensure we are meeting best practice.
Assessing an older person’s risk for falling is the first step in preventing a fall. All residents, day activity clients and older persons admitted to the hospital are screened for their fall risk using validated tools. This identifies the factors that make a person more likely to fall and helps identify strategies to reduce the risk of falling. This may include referral for further assessment and treatment. Falls rates in residents and patients measured as falls per 1000 occupied bed days have been improving since falls prevention screening and strategies have been implemented at UMHCS.
Falls per 1000 OBD 2006- 2012 at UMHCS (Includes acute and residential services)
10.00 9.00 8.00 7.00 6.00 5.00 4.00 3.00 2.00 1.00 0.00 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 2010/2011 2011/12 Falls per 1000OBD 9.35 7.14 6.83 5.01 6.01 5.57
In the community setting, those identified at risk of falling are referred to the Fall Prevention Program. That includes those people who have had a fall already, and those who have changes in their balance or walking. A fall risk screen is completed and further assessment by a physiotherapist is undertaken. Deficits in balance, mobility and strength are identified as well as other risk factors such as vision impairments, continence, medication use, sensory impairments and inappropriate footwear. Referrals to other health practitioners are completed when indicated.
A home assessment by the occupational therapist is arranged. Most people who fall and injure themselves do so in their own home so it is important to make a person’s home environment as safe as possible.
25 25
Exercise is fundamental to reducing a person’s fall risk and an appropriate program is prescribed depending on the individual’s capacity. This may be either Make a Move, a 15 week gym based program comprising strength and balance exercises and education, or a home or centre based exercise program supported by an Allied Health Assistant or exercise group at Day Activity Centre.
Preventing falls is important to enable older persons to continue to lead quality lives. At UMHCS we are aiming to provide best practice in fall prevention to all clients, patients and residents of the service.
Capital Improvements
Over the past 12 months the Nursing Home dining room has undertaken some refurbishment as a result of the “Dementia Friendly Environment” funding initiative. This was seen as an extension of the “Food for Older People” project that the nursing staff have embraced. UMHCS has received $28,000 funding for this project. New tables, chairs, kitchen bench, lighting, oven and cooktop have been purchased, under the guidance of Dr Samantha Davis, who advised us on the dementia friendly specifics.
Another successful submission through the targeted Equipment Program from Department of Health was for the replacement of our PABX telephone system over to a wireless system and VOIP phone system that connects through the computer and offers significant savings on telephone calls. This was funded from Dept Health for $190,000.
UMHCS has also received $35,000 from Dept Health to improve the Nurse Call system. This couldn’t be implemented until the wireless work has been completed.
Other improvements include: Floor replacement in Day Activity Centre and 2 Acute & Residential Care rooms at a cost of $16,986 along with automatic doors being installed at the Ambulance/ Urgent Care Centre entrance for $10,648.
Older style furniture and New Dementia friendly kitchen collectables as part of Dementia bench, oven, cooktop and tables Friendly project
26 26 Community Liaison Group
Consumer participation in health service decision making is an essential part of how the health service understands local needs and how to meet them. Community Liaison Group (CLG) members work cooperatively with the health service, with mutual trust, respect and openness. The membership of the Committee is deliberately intended to include a diverse range of community interests, lifestyles and points of view. New members are always welcome. The Community Liaison Group is now in its 13th year of active consumer participation at UMHCS. The Agency extends its sincere thanks and appreciation to the community members of the group for 2011 – 2012 for their input and commitment.
Patricia George (Chairperson) Edna Anderson Alison Carkeek Graham Hill (Board) Connie Carlyle Pamela Menere (Board) Sylvia Montgomery Rod Ashenden (resigned) Carol Allen Chris Howard Steve Kruger (resigned) Micheal Leonhard Sabine Werrett Maxine Brockfield (Chief Executive) Max Grigg Chris Stuart (Director of Client services) Kerry Flanagan (Health Promotion)
Throughout 2011-2012, the Community Liaison Group has provided input and wisdom a wide range of health related business: 1. Community decision making into the proposed Hydrotherapy pool through the “Sink or Swim” community survey conducted by the Community Liaison Group from September to October 2011. The goal was to design a survey to inform residents about the escalating costs of building and maintaining the proposed service and to seek their views about matters concerning the proposed hydro pool. It was important that everyone be given the opportunity to have a say in whether the agency should proceed with the hydrotherapy pool or not. Steps Taken: • The “Hydro Pool Sink or Swim survey” was designed by the CLG and distributed by the postal service to 1200 households in the UMHCS area, including Khancoban, in September 2011. • Total returns = 248 returns amounting to a 20% response rate. • Using percentages, 17% of respondents favoured the hydro pool, 17% wanted a heated water facility for all ages, 13% suggested local dental services and 9% recommended gym improvements. The remaining 43% made other great suggestions. There was a six to one ratio of those against proceeding with the hydro project to those in favour. • Final Recommendation: The Community Liaison Group proposed the creation of an all inclusive community partnership backed by Federal and State funds to progress the community’s desire for a heated water facility, which would include hydrotherapy while providing other educational and recreational opportunities for all ages. • Feedback was made to the community through a detailed report circulated widely. Copies are available on request.
27 27 • Input into Policies and Procedures: 9 Community Liaison Group position description and Expression of Interest documentation finalised. 9 Development of a position description for Chair of the CLG. 9 Advance Care Planning brochure • Quality of Care Report in Calendar format – The CLG members assisted the Quality Coordinator, Sharon Nicholas, to produce the second Quality of Care Report in calendar format for the Department of Health and for local distribution. • North East Transport project – continued advocacy for a disability bus and increased access to public transport. • Increased understanding of the Towong Alliance and the Towong Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan. • Resolution of the obsolete TV’s problem thanks to Corryong Lions.
Day Activity Centre
Day Activity Centre (DAC) is held Monday to Thursday from 10am until 3pm in the Community Services Building at Upper Murray Health & Community Services (UMHCS) for residents and community members to participate in.
Day Activity Centre Co-ordinator, Gay Erickson, plans a wide variety of fun and stimulating activities along with an exercise program for all to enjoy. She can also arrange transport to collect and return participants to their homes. DAC assistants, Deed Lebner and Kylie Ross along with a band of volunteers ensure that clients are kept engaged and entertained.
Some of the activities on offer at DAC are:- Indoor bowls, movies on the big screen, board games, skittles, craft, chair aerobics / weights, woodwork, mini debates, celebration of calender of events and other special occasions, visits from local singers and musicians and much more. This provides clients with friendship, stimulation, and opportunity to remain active as well as offering relief for carers.
Morning & afternoon tea is provided along with a hot lunch for a minimal cost of $8.00.
A snap shot of some DAC participants comments are:- “I love being around all the people”, “This is my family”, “I don’t know what I would do without this (DAC) to come to”, “It’s too lonely at home”.
If you would like to come along to DAC or you know someone that would enjoy the company and activities, please contact Gay on (02) 60763200.
Participants enjoying Day Indoor bowls is popular 28 Activity Centre activities 28
National Volunteers Week Celebrations 9th -15th May “Hats off to Volunteers”
Upper Murray Health & Community Services celebrated Volunteer’s Week with a gala morning tea attended by more than fifty local volunteers and health service staff.
“This occasion is an opportunity to highlight the many roles undertaken by volunteers and to say thank you for the many ways you support the clients of the health service,” said Chief Executive/Director of Nursing, Maxine Brockfield in her welcome. “From community car drivers, to the Ladies Auxiliary, from Food bank to Meals on Wheels, your generous gifts of time, energy, skills and kindness make a real difference to many people’s lives”
“The theme of the event is “Hats off to You”, Maxine explained. “We chose this theme because this is a term of great respect. It's an expression that is used to convey appreciation, congratulations or admiration, which is how the staff of Upper Murray Health & Community Services feel about their volunteers”
Everyone joined in a hat making activity which demonstrated just how clever people can be with a sheet of paper and a few decorations.
The colourful hat parade was a celebration of each volunteer, providing staff with the opportunity to say a few words about each person’s contribution and “doff their hats” with respect and gratitude.
Special thanks to the Day Care volunteers who made the stylish banner, which was displayed in the Corryong Greengrocers.
Pat & George Hodgson Lorna Crawford & Sue Davies joined in the celebrations
Maxine Brockfield, with board members Sue Sullivan, Pamela Menere and Graham Hill.
29 29
Acute Auxiliary Presidents Report
It is with great pleasure that I present the 2011/12 Upper Murray Health & Community Services (UMHCS) Acute Auxiliary Presidents report.
Firstly I would like to thank my committee and the members for their dedication and hard work they have done the past financial year.
Our street stalls raised an incredible $8,838.15, which was a huge effort for our 21 members to make this amount of money with only 10 stalls being held.
We have purchased 2 shower commodes and seats, 8 table clothes for hostel dining tables and are awaiting the arrival of 2 new blood pressure machines and a bi-pap machine.
Our committee also gave Christmas cheer to the hospital staff and all clients received a Christmas gift.
Our balance as at 30th June 2012 was $13,094.14.
In finishing, I look forward to another successful year.
Yours in friendship, Sandra Benton President
Corryong Swim Relay Challenge
On Friday 10th February UMHCS entered a team into the annual Corryong Swim Relay Challenge. This year the team consisted of John Smith, Carolyn Cutler, Jacinta McKimmie, Brian Smith, Sophie Wallace, Liz Wallace, Belinda Attree, Brenda Whitehead & Petrina Hewatt.
The team swam well in their heat recording a time of 4 minutes 12 seconds which qualified them for the final. In the final the team recorded a time of 4 minutes 19 seconds to finish 6th out of 13 teams. Well done on a great result.
Back: Brian Smith and Belinda Attree Front: John Smith, Carolyn Cutler, Jacinta McKimmie, Sophie Wallace, Liz Wallace, Brenda Whitehead & Petrina Hewatt
30 30
Acute and Residential Care Team
Acute and Residential Care have had a steady year with the Dementia Friendly Environment project being finalised. This major focus of the project was the redevelopment of the Nursing home dining room from a very clinical atmosphere to a more home like environment. To achieve this the project team selected home like furniture, lighting, cooking facilities and warm colours for the walls. A major contributor to the project was the Ladies Auxiliary who have very generously donated new drapes for both dining room and lounge area to compliment the hard work put in by the team
Another outstanding contribution to the Nursing home was the 19 handmade patchwork quilts made by Herman Botterwig’s daughter, Lya Parkin from South Australia. Lya wanted to show her appreciation for the care and compassion demonstrated to Herman by the staff. Lya single handedly designed and constructed the beautiful quilts over a number of years. Each quilt is unique and shows hours of outstanding craftsmanship and adds to the home like atmosphere of our nursing home. The residents and staff cannot express enough gratitude to Lya for wonderful donation.
Sharon Edmondson and Lya Parkin with some of the beautiful patchworth quilts made by Lya.
We recently received a new dialysis unit. Rebecca Johnston and Fiona Miles attended a regional dialysis seminar where they met the new Nephrologist for the area. Every 2 months a video conference link up with all the regional dialysis units occurs so they can discuss any new issues or items.
Helen Bailey with Nurse, Fiona Miles
31 31 Aged Care Team
Diversional Therapy at UMHCS was again an interesting, fulfilling and diverse year that saw residents out in the community participating in life and the community coming into our home to entertain us. Staff, families and residents would like to thank everyone that thought to include us in their events. Without these events our residents lose some of the feeling of belonging to a community where many of them played a very important role. We welcome all new and existing volunteers, without our treasured few, some of the events would not be possible.
Some of the things we did this year included: • Visits from local schools music and drama classes • Being a part of the community involvement program which saw residents have their fingernails, hair, hand massages, playing chess and one-on-one chats with a variety of children. • Religious domains visited every second or third week to look after our spiritual needs which is enjoyed by all as it involves singing. • The Man From Snowy River Bush Festival parade • Old Machinery Day • Geelong Grammer Girls singers • Rotary Dinner – residents look forward to this as it is a chance of them to mingle and the food is always great. • Major calender events, such as: Football finals , Melbourne Cup, Queens Birthday, Easter, Christmas, ANZAC and Remembrance Day • Happy hour every Tuesday where Virginia Lyons organising something special for tea either in the Hostel or Nursing Home. • Residents and Relatives Christmas lunch – staff are again to be commended for the effort that went into making the lunch so special.
Sister Pat George gave a wonderful ANZAC Day service at UMHCS, due to unpredictable weather we couldn’t attend the Hanson Street Service.
We contributed to the community by cutting up rages for the Op Shop and being a wealth of information on history for anyone who cared to listen. These are some of the activities that kept us busy in year. We apologise to anyone we have missed out. We appreciate all family and community involvement and look forward to another exciting year ahead.
32 32 Social Worker
Social worker Lea Klippel provides assistance to people in a wide range of areas, working to enable people to achieve their goals of social justice. Support is provided for physical and emotional, social and financial welfare in a confidential environment.
1. Carer support and engagement: • Carers are assisted with information and individual support as needed. • The Carers support group meets regularly for planned activities. • Respite is arranged for care recipients and Carer funding obtained from outside agencies. • Support to access Carer benefits with Centrelink, such as Carer allowance or payment. • Promotion of Carers Victoria, telephone counselling services and Carer activities and services available. • Linking Carers with external agencies and services such as Carer support options Upper Murray Family Care or Villa Maria. • Some short case management has also been provided to individual clients requiring support and assistance.
2. Parents of children with a disability: • Support is also available for parents of children with a disability, including respite activities during school semester breaks or special occasions. • Interventions between young people their family and the schools have also been provided enabling the young person to remain at school knowing they have some external support network to guide them.
3. Access to services and entitlements: • Accommodation support including Bond assistance, and short term emergency accommodation through access to North East Housing and other regional services. • Assistance with applications for Centrelink benefits, Medicare card, birth certificates, disabled parking permits and taxi cards. • Medical and Financial Powers of Attorney paperwork. • Applications to seek legal appointment of guardians through the Office of the Public Advocate and Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.
The Social work service operates on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Conference Presentations
Brockfield, Maxine Department of Health “Best Practice Forum: Occupational Violence Prevention in Victorian Health Services”, Telstra Conference Centre Melbourne, 2nd December 2011
Martin, Nicole and O’Toole, Fiona, Kerry Holier Department of Health. Poster Presentation, “UMHCS PDSA Project – Our Journey”, Department of Health, Melbourne, November 2011.
33 33
Service Levels
Admitted Patients Acute Accident & Emergency Attendances 1267 Separations: Same day 247 Multi day 216 Total separations: 463 Public separations 387
Total Group Service Service Sessions Sessions New Clients New Clients Attendances Occasions of of Occasions Allied Health 51 1090 102 954 Cardiac Rehabilitation n/a 823 168 168 Childbirth Education 30 30 7 7 Community Transport n/a 555 n/a 555 Counselling 33 190 13 113 Day Activity Centre/Planned Activity Group 3 2258 189 2258 Diabetes Education 10 490 11 437 Dietitian n/a 42 n/a 42 District Nurse 30 691 n/a 691 Financial Counselling 42 56 n/a 56 Home and Community Care (HACC) n/a 4195 n/a 4195 Health Promotion 312 7390 944 2954 Meals on Wheels n/a 5135 n/a 5135 Medical Attendances n/a 10223 n/a 10223 Mental Health 592 2001 56 1331 Practice Nurse 28 5131 289 3598 Occupational Therapy 282 1128 33 999 Physiotherapy 416 2721 119 2240 Podiatry n/a 190 n/a 190 Radiography n/a 993 n/a 993 Social Worker 152 1903 339 1296 Speech Therapy 2 27 n/a 27 Youth Health Promotion n/a 4808 4808 n/a
34 34
Statistical Days- Monthly Totals 2011/12
Days Days Stayers Stayers One Day Day One Sub total Ineligible Ineligible Sub Total Total Bed Public NHT NHT Public Private NHT NHT Private Public Acute Public Acute Private Acute Compensable Compensable
July 153 33 0 0 186 0 0 0 186 18 August 168 37 0 0 205 0 0 0 205 24 Sept. 219 54 0 0 273 0 0 0 273 24 Oct. 135 42 1 0 178 0 0 0 178 20 Nov. 155 41 0 0 196 0 0 0 196 20 Dec. 121 27 0 0 148 0 0 0 148 21 Jan. 97 21 0 0 118 0 0 0 118 14 Feb. 76 32 0 0 108 0 0 0 108 22 March 72 43 0 0 115 0 0 0 115 23 April 46 77 0 0 123 0 0 0 123 23 May 107 35 0 0 142 0 0 0 142 19 June 104 18 0 0 122 0 0 0 122 19 Totals 1453 460 1 0 1914 0 0 0 1914 247
Staffing Return
EQUIVALENT FULL TIME STAFF BY LABOUR CATEGORY June YTD June Labour Category FTE Current Month FTE 2011 2012 2011 2012 Nursing 27.96 27.34 27.61 26.74 Diagnostic and health professionals 4.96 6.92 5.37 8.04 Hospital Medical Officers 3.05 2.66 13.37 2.93 Personal care staff 12.92 13.41 2.96 12.54 Administrative and clerical 20.03 21.40 20.68 19.39 Hotel and Allied Services 13.90 14.43 14.13 15.48 Total: 82.82 86.16 84.11 85.12
As at 30 June 2012 As at 30 June 2011 Type Total Type Total Full time 28 Full time 25 Part time 109 Part time 100 Casual 15 Casual 9 Total 152 Total 134
35 35
Comparative Financial Analysis
$,000 $,000 $,000 $,000 $,000 11/12 10/11 09/10 08/09 07/08 Total Revenue 9338* 8957 8433 8354 8686 Total Expenses 9724* 9426 8777 7824 7447 Operating surplus (deficit) (386)* (469) (410) 530 1239 Retained surplus (accumulated 1358* 1744 2212 2616 2083 deficit)
$,000 $,000 $,000 $,000 $,000 11/12 10/11 09/10 08/09 07/08 Total Assets 13649* 13786 14111 14199 11343 Total Liabilities 3692* 3443 3298 2976 2612 Net Assets 9957* 10343 10813 11223 8731 Total Equity 9957* 10343 10813 11223 8731 * figures unaudited at time of printing
Revenue Indicators
Average Collection Days 2012 2011 Private 60 60 VWA 0 0 Other Compensable 0 0 Residential Aged Care 30 30 HACC 30 30 Community Health 30 30 Administration 45 45 Medical Centre 60 60
Associated Services
Auditor: Auditor-General Victoria
Auditor’s Agent: MDHC Audit Assurance
Accountant: Davidson’s
Solicitors: VHIA Health Legal
Bankers: ANZ Limited
36 36
Debtors Outstanding as at 30 June 2012
INPATIENT & RESIDENTIAL < 30 31-60 61-90 > 90 Total Total Days Days Days Days 30/06/12 30/06/11 Private 18,202 428 1,016 7,254 26,900 31,809 VWA ------Other Compensable ------Residential 60,406 3,863 2,056 16,478 82,802 91,093 Totals ($) 78,608 4,291 3,072 23,731 109,702 122,901
OUTPATIENTS < 30 31-60 61-90 > 90 Total Total Days Days Days Days 30/06/12 30/06/11 HACC 18,920 792 1,867 6,926 28,504 24,938 Community Health 7,728 1,595 277 4,277 13,877 17,074 Administration 5,519 32,769 - 3,245 41,533 42,822 Medical Centre 15,498 1,552 587 7,534 25,171 13,804 Totals ($) 47,665 36,708 2,731 21,982 109,085 98,637
Donations and Contributions
Donor Amount Application Anonimous $50.00 Home & Community Care (HACC) IMO Bob Scammell $100.00 Acute & Residential Services Open Garden $401.60 Acute & Residential Services RC & DE Whitehead $200.00 Hostel Acute Auxiliary $1,755.00 Acute & Residential Services Betty Mangelsdorf $20.00 Acute & Residential Services Bill & Janine Kirk $1,000.00 Upper Murray Challenge Latipsoh $3,490.60 General Corryong Red Cross Unit $1,000.00 Dentist
Total $8,017.20
37 37
Staff Academic Achievements BSB51107 – Diploma Of Management Kaye Conway Brenda Whitehead
HLT51007 - Diploma of Population Health Kerry Flanagan CHC30308 – Certificate III in Home and Community Care CHC30208 – Certificate III in Aged Care Alison Bond Ruth McKelvey Barbara Williams TAA40110 - Certificate IV in Training & Assessment Catherine Wheeler HLT42507 – Certificate IV In Allied Health Assistant Tricia McLean
BSB40807 – Certificate IV in Front Line Management Samantha Moran
HLT43407 - Certificate IV in Nursing (Wodonga TAFE) Jessica Getzendorfer Rebecca Nankervis
HLTAP301A – Recognise Healthy Body Systems in a Health Care Context and CHCCS305A – Assist Clients with Medication Alice Dorman
HLTEN620A – Practise in First Line Emergency Nursing Lea Klippel
BSBDIV301A - Work effectively with culturally diverse clients and co-workers Denise Johnston Tricia McLean Sue Morley Diane Volek CHCAC319A – Provide support to people living with dementia. Heather Stockwell
38 38 Services Provided at UMHCS
CLINICAL SERVICES- PH 60763200 Acute Care Aged Care, High Care and Hostel Domiciliary Midwifery Border Pathology Collection Day Procedure Unit Respite Medical Imaging (X-Ray and Ultrasonography) Support Group for Families with Relatives in Residential Care Medical and General Practice Nursing Services, including District Nursing, Palliative Care and Diabetes Education
ALLIED HEALTH & COMMUNITY SERVICES- PH 60763200
Alcohol and Other Drug Problems Allied Health Support Blossom Childbirth Education Community Health & Fitness Centre Community Transport Continence Management Nurse Continuing Care Program Counselling Day Activity Centre Dietician Drug and Alcohol Services Falls Prevention Program Financial Counselling Service Foot Care Clinic Hearing Services Gambling Counselling Service Home and Community Care Meals on Wheels Mental Health Support Group Occupational Therapy Optometry Parents Support Group Physiotherapy Podiatry Social Work Speech Therapy Youth Services Volunteering Program
COMMUNITY GROUPS- PH 60763200
Cancer Support Group Community Liaison Group Community Network Group Men’s and Women’s Groups
UPPER MURRAY RETIREMENT VILLAGE- PH 60763200
39 39 Legislation
FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 During the year there were two requests for information processed by the Agency under the Freedom of Information Act 1982. There were two other requests for information which were outside the Freedom of Information Act 1982.
Requests for access to information in documentary form in the custody of the Agency should be made in writing and address to: The Freedom of Information Officer, Upper Murray Health & Community Services, PO Box 200, CORRYONG VIC 3707
WHISTLEBLOWERS PROTECTION ACT 2001 Upper Murray Health & Community Services (UMHCS) is committed to the aims and objectives of the Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001. UMHCS does not tolerate improper conduct by its employees or officers nor the taking of reprisals against those who come forward to disclose such conduct.
VICTORIAN INDUSTRY PARTICIPATION ACT 2003 All areas of UMHCS comply with the regulations within the Victorian Industry Participation Act 2003. There were no contracts completed during 2011/12.
BUILDING ACT 1993 UMHCS complies with the provisions of the Building Act 1993 in accordance with DHS capital Development Guidelines. (Minister for finance Guideline Building Act 1993/Standards for Publicly Owned Buildings 1994/Building (interim) Regulations 2005 and Building Code of Australian 2004)
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT ACT 1994 The information provided in this report has been prepared in accordance with the Directions of the Minister for Finance Part 9.1.3 (IV) and is available to relevant Ministers, Members of Parliament and the public on request.
AUDIT ACT 1994 The purpose of the UMHCS Audit Committee is to assist the Agency to maximise benefits from systems of internal control and both internal and external review processes. The independent members of this committee are: Sr Patricia George and Mr Edmond Barry. Other members are: Graham Hill and Mark Clayton.
HOSPITAL FEES UMHCS charges fees in accordance with the Department of Human Services, Victoria directives issued under Section 9 of the Hospital and Charities (Fees) Regulations 1986 (as amended)
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY UMHCS complies with the Occupation Health & Safety Act of 2004 and its associated regulations and code of practice to meet the Australian Council of Health Care Standards requirements.
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FOOD SAFETY AND CLEANING AUDITS UMHCS uses an external independent audit process for cleaning standards, food safety and infection control. In all areas UMHCS has performed above the State benchmark. UMHCS achieved a score of 90.6% for high risk areas against the State benchmark of 85%, a score of 86.7% for moderate risk areas, against a State benchmark of 85%. Overall hospital score of 89.7% for all areas, against a State benchmark of 85%.
INFECTION CONTROL UMHCS participated in the VICNISS – Victorian Nosocomial (hospital acquired) Infection Surveillance System. We are proud to report that we have had no hospital acquired infections for the period July 2011/2012. UMHCS continues to participate in Hand Hygiene monitoring and reporting. UMHCS participates in the Hume regional infection control-auditing program, which facilitates us to benchmark against like facilities. Aged Care Surveillance has been included in VICNISS reporting.
NATIONAL COMPETITION POLICY UMHCS complies with all government policies regarding neutrality in regard to tender applications.
STAFF CREDENTIALING All clinical staff employed at UMHCS must have the appropriate qualifications and skills, which are assessed prior to the person starting work. Visiting Medical officers are Credentialed with an annual review of public liability insurance, medical registration and training attended.
CONSULTANCIES Three consultancies were utilised during 2011/12 costing in excess of $10,000, representing a total value of $45,839 and two consultancies were utilised under $10,000 representing a total value of $9,774. There were a total of five consultants engaged during 2011/12, representing a total of $55,613 in Consultancy fees.
STATEMENT OF MERIT AND EQUITY UMHCS treats all patients and staff with fairness and does not discriminate against persons because of their race, religion, gender, physical or mental impairment. All staff appointments and promotions are made on same basis. UMHCS employment principles identify the ways in which employees expect to be treated and how employees will treat each other and their clients.
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Compliance
The Upper Murray Health & Community Services (UMHCS) Annual Report, has been compiled to meet the requirements of the Annual Reporting (Contributed Income Sector) regulations 1988 (as amended)
Attestation on Compliance with Australian/New Zealand Risk Management Standard I, Maxine Brockfield, certify that the Upper Murray Health & Community Services has risk management processes in place consistent with the Australian/New Zealand Risk Management Standard and an internal control system is in place that enables the executives to understand, manage and satisfactorily control risk exposures. The audit committee verifies this assurance and that the risk profile of the Upper Murray Health & Community Services has been critically reviewed within the last 12 months.
Maxine Brockfield CE/DON At Corryong on 1st July 2012
Responsible Bodies Declaration In accordance with the Financial Management Act 1994, I am pleased to present the Report of Operations for the Upper Murray Health & Community Services for the year ending 30 June 2012.
Mr A G Hill Chairperson (on behalf of the Board) At Corryong on 1st July 2012
Attestation on Data Integrity I, Bruce Woodhouse, certify that the Upper Murray Health & Community Services has put in place appropriate internal controls and processes to ensure that reported data reasonably reflects actual performance. The Upper Murray Health & Community Services has critically reviewed these controls and processes during the year.
Bruce Woodhouse Accountable Officer At Corryong on 1st July 2012
42 42 Operational & Budgetary Objectives & Performance against Objectives
Our Corporate Plan performance demonstrates 93% achievement of targets.
Our model of Evidence-Based Needs Assessment and planning processes assure the highest level of accountability in terms of UMHCS maximising the potential for health and wellbeing and improvements in the Upper Murray. Within our new Corporate Plan we have overlayed the principles of the “Quadruple Bottom Line” (QBL). Within the QBL framework, we have a number of Key Issues.
These include: Population Health - to provide services and programs that are responsive to our health and community service needs and build on the strengths of our community. Multipurpose Service Sustainability – to maintain our Multi Purpose Services (MPS) and Rural Primary Health Service (RPHS) status and to invest our resources to insure our community receives maximum benefit from these Programs. Service Integration – to maximise service integration by developing links and pathways at the service and client interface. Our People – to continue to support our ageing workforce and the AIFL to provide local training and ensure we ‘grow our own’ workforce due to the challenges of recruiting to a relatively isolated community. Asset & Risk Management – to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our asset management and physical resources and minimize the risk of damage to people and resources through improved risk management including high quality clinical governance and strengthening financial risk management.
The QBL principles have corporate governance principles added to the three elements of social, environmental and financial accountability. At its broadest QBL refers to the whole set of values, issues and processes the UMHCS will address to create economic, social and environmental value. This involves us being clear about the organisation’s purpose and taking into consideration the needs of all our stakeholders from the community, our staff, three levels of Government and other key groups.
Our key objectives are classified as follows according to the following strategies: Strategy 1: Governance Objectives Strategy 2: Social Objectives - Our People, Our external stakeholders Strategy 3: Economic Objectives Strategy 4: Environmental Objectives
The Corporate Plan performance indicator achievements: 2011/2012 2010/2011 Governance Indicators 100% 100% Social Indicators 95.4% 95% Economic Indicators 90.9% 86.4% Environmental 85.7% 91.7%
43 43 Disclosure Index
The Annual Report of Upper Murray Health & Community Services 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 reference
For page reference ‘FS’ please refer to copy of UMHCS financial statements
Ministerial Directions Report of Operations
Charter and purpose FRD 22C Manner of establishment and the relevant Ministers FS/2 FRD 22C Objectives, functions, powers and duties 4 FRD 22C Nature and range of services provided 39
Management structure FRD 22C Organisational structure 7
Report of Operations and other information FRD 10 Disclosure index 44 FRD 11 Disclosure of ex-gratia payments N/A FRD15B Executive officer disclosure FS FRD 21B Responsible person and executive officer disclosures FS FRD 22C Application & Operation of Freedom of Information Act 1982 40 FRD 22C Application and Operation of the Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001 40 FRD 22C Compliance with building and maintenance provisions of Building Act 1993 40 FRD 22C Details of consultancies over $10,000 N/A FRD 22C Details of consultancies under $10,000 41 FRD 22C Major changes or factors affecting performance N/A FRD 22C Occupational Health and Safety 40 FRD 22C Operational and budgetary objectives and performances against objectives 43 FRD 22C Significant changes in financial position during the year N/A FRD 22C Statement of availability of other information N/A FRD 22C Statement of National Competition Policy 41 FRD 22C Subsequent events N/A FRD 22C Summary of the financial results for the year 36 FRD 22C Workforce Data Disclosures including a statement on the application of employment and conduct principles 35 FRD 25 Victorian Industry Participation Policy disclosures 40 SD 4.2(j) Sign off requirements 42 SD 3.4.13 Attestation on Data Integrity 42 SD 4.5.5 Attestation on Compliance with Australian/New Zealand Risk Management Standard 42
44 44 Financial Statements
Financial statements required under part 7 of the FMA SD 4.2(a) Statement of Change in Equity FS SD 4.2(b) Comprehensive Operating Statement FS SD 4.2(b) Balance Sheet FS SD 4.2(b) Cash Flow Statement FS
Other requirements under Standing Directions 4.2 SD 4.2(a) Compliance with Australian accounting standards and other authoritative pronouncements FS SD 4.2(c) Accountable officer’s declaration FS SD 4.2(c) Compliance with Ministerial Directions FS SD 4.2(d) Rounding of amounts FS
Legislation Freedom of Information Act 1982 40 Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001 40 Victorian Industry Participation Act 2003 40 Building1993 Act 40 Financial Management Act 1994 40/FS Audit Act 1994ActAudit 40 Food Safety Act and Cleaning Audit Act 41 InfectionControl 41
NOTES
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45 45 If the financial statements are not attached, please phone UMHCS on (02) 6076 3200 to obtain a copy
Foundation Stone of Corryong District Hospital laid by Lady Urquhart on 14th November 1916. If the financial statementsBuilding completed are not in 1919.attached,
please phone UMHCS on (02) 6076 3200
to obtain a copy
PO Box 200, CORRYONG VIC 3707 Phone: (02) 60763200, Facsimile: (02) 60761739 Email: [email protected] Website: www.umhcs.vic.gov.au
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