South West Hospital and Health Service PULSE AUGUST 2019 EDITION We would like to pay our respects to the traditional owners of the lands across the South West. We would also like to pay our respects to the current and future Elders who will inherit the responsibility of keeping Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture alive, and creating a better life for the generations to follow. We believe the future happiness and wellbeing of all Australians and their future generations will be enhanced by valuing and taking pride in Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples – the oldest living culture of humanity.
South West Queensland Traditional Owners:
Augathella – Bidjara (Bid-jara) Mungindi – Kamilaroi (Car-milla-roy)
Bollon – Kooma (Coo-ma) Quilpie – Bunthamarra (Bun-tha-mar-ra) and Wangkumara (Wong-ka-mara) Charleville – Bidjara (Bid-jara) Roma – Mandandanji (Mand-an-dand-gee) Cunnamulla – Kunya (Koun-yah) with other interests St George – Kooma (Coo-ma) with Kamilaroi, Mandandanji, Bigambul and Dirranbandi – Kooma (Coo-ma) Gungarri interests
Injune – Kongabula (Kong-ga-bull-a) Surat – Mandandanji (Mand-an-dand-gee)
Mitchell – Gungurri (Gon-gari) Thargomindah – Kullila (Coo-lee-lar)
Morven – Bidjara (Bid-jara) Wallumbilla – Mandandanji (Mand-an- dand-gee)
Our Values
QUALITY COMPASSION ACCOUNTABILITY ENGAGEMENT ADAPTABILITY
This newsletter is produced by the South West Hospital and Health Service (South West HHS). All feedback and contributions are welcome to [email protected]. All published material has been approved by the Health Chief Executive. Contents
4 Board
6 Board out and about
8 Health Service Chief Executive
Our Communities
10 We put people at the heart of everything we do
11 Healthy comminities, healthy ageing
13 Healthy comminities, healthy ageing
14 Working in partnership to improve health outcomes
Our Teams
16 Our aged care teams - the best here in the South West
17 Have a word with your local speech pathologists
19 Time to celebrate our people
21 The vital role of our partnerships with communities
Our services
22 New Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights empowers patients as parters
23 Statewide health priorities take hold
24 South West Hospital and Health Service - clinical council
27 #SWspirit
Our resources
28 Another key milestone met in new Roma hospital build
30 You matter - have your say! FROM THE BOARD CHAIR JIM McGOWAN, AM The Board meets in Roma with local Maranoa Regional Councillors and Executive Leadership Team members
4 South West Hospital and Health Service Occupational violence is an issue which can have a devastating impact on our staff, volunteers and consumers. People have a right to expect that when their loved ones or friends leave home to work in or visit one of our facilities that they will return home safely. We are committed to providing maximum support to mitigate both the incidence and impact of occupational violence. Sometimes, this involves changes to the physical layout in those facilities; sometimes it may require personal devices which can be activated; sometimes its impact can be mitigated by greater awareness and risk assessments. It always involves ongoing training and support.
However, you are subject to greater challenges than regular workplaces. Drug fueled patients in our emergency departments, consumers with dementia in our aged care facilities and people with mental health issues are just a few examples where you are at greater risk than those in other workplaces. You must report any incidents to your supervisors and where appropriate, to the police. You need to know that support is available and have a right to expect that support. You have a right to know what follow up actions are planned or have been taken. You may have ideas on how to mitigate the risks in your workplace. Those ideas are welcome.
Domestic and family violence can also impact on a person’s safety, wellbeing and work performance. The South West Hospital and Health Board at its August meeting reiterated its commitment to people who have been subject to domestic and family violence and approved a communication plan to inform employees about the support services that are available to them. This will include advice to others who become aware that one of their colleagues may be suffering as a result of domestic and family violence. Information on support services including leave arrangements will be available on the SWHHS intranet site, the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), the Pulse, posters, your supervisors or from HR specialists.
The implementation of the new state-wide finance system (S/4HANA) has not gone as well as promised. I am aware that this has created challenges for the ordering and delivery of stock. I thank you for your patience, persistence and understanding. Local initiative and problem solving and cooperative approaches have been central to ensuring that clinical service delivery has not been compromised. Thank you.
Consider these.
“I call him religious who understands the suffering of others.” Mahatma Gandhi (1869 to 1948), leader of the non-violent campaign for Indian independence.
Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” Dr Leo Buscaglia (1924- 1998); known “Dr Love”; Professor in the Department of Special Education, University of Southern California.
Jim McGowan AM The Pulse August 2019 5 FROM THE BOARD CHAIR OUT AND ABOUT
Site tour Roma Hospital redevelopment
Chair Jim McGowan, Maranoa Regional Councillor Jeff McMullen and WATPAC project manager Brett Rosenthal
Dr Martin Byrne, A/HSCE Sandy McDonald, Roma CAN member and Board member Claire Alexander and Jan Chambers Chris Small, A/EDSGP
6 South West Hospital and Health Service Stewart Gordon and Roma CAN Chair Sandy MacDonald
The Pulse August 2019 7 FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE LINDA PATAT
It’s a beautiful and brisk Tuesday morning as I building a culture that aligns with our values is an write this article - busily trying to tie off loose ends active role for all of us. as I head off on a couple of weeks’ holiday. Thank you to everyone who has sent me a lovely message The ability to attract and retain good people; to be wishing me a nice break. I’m going to Port Douglas innovative in the face of complex challenges; to for some time with extended family, and looking respond quickly and resiliently to crisis; and the forward to getting back into my morning exercise willingness to change and adopt new ways of doing routine (have dropped off the wagon a little of things and new technologies; all form mission late!) critical attributes for any successful organisation moving forward. I’m also looking forward to coming back and progressing our Safety and Quality agenda further We need to build our reputation and brand to together. As Chief Executive, I have found myself recruit the best people and ensure that those focused afresh on just how critical it is to create a who are here for the long term are supported by workplace where we all feel safe, valued, listened a full and skilled workforce which allows healthy to, and cared about. I believe trust forms a key workloads to be maintained. We cannot allow basis for this type of workplace environment, poor behaviour or ill-aligned values of a very and is created through both safe communication small few to drain the energy and engagement for and mutually respectful relationships that occur the overwhelming majority – the overwhelming and develop through individual interactions majority is our strength, our point of difference and each and every day in the workplace. This focus our future. I feel inspired each and every day to aligns particularly well with Jim’s message this be here because of the people who are part of our month about safety, both at home and at work ... work family – let’s not let the exceptions consume physically and psychologically. our energy; and let’s show courage and candour in addressing issues of poor behaviour and poor Across the South West, we have culture together. a long and strong history of Having a high trust, inclusive and safe workplace working together, and now more is a non-negotiable for me. The integrity required to do the right thing can be very challenging at than ever, having inclusive times – but we remain focused and committed to and respectful relationships delivering on this, as I know you require this of me. I thank you for doing your best to continue to hold will provide the bedrock for this in the highest of stead. our culture. This will be a The conversations and the actions we take today key ingredient to our future build our culture and our experience of tomorrow. sustainability and success. Yours in service We have a team of 978 across the South West and L we all develop the South West culture every day. Paying attention, and consciously and strategically
8 South West Hospital and Health Service WHERE’S LINDA BEEN?
Where was Linda in July 2019?
Linda was spotted last month during her travels visiting the beautiful town of Morven Guess where Linda was in August 2019?
Send your guesses to [email protected]
SENIOR LEADERS TRAIN TOGETHER TO IMPROVE OUR WORKPLACES In August, their colleagues and leaders telling the truth, being all 60 of our kind and playing fairly. Senior Leaders In addition to focusing on professional and inclusive attended a communication, the Senior Leadership Team are also targeted training looking to identify and address processes, rules or program for high approaches that don’t add value to the important work performance we do – individualised person-centred high quality communication. care. Across the South West, we You can help us be the type of workplace we all want believe positive to have by answering the question “Are there any communication of our contracts, role descriptions or policies and behaviours procedures that make you uncomfortable?” Please - such as submit your responses to the https://qheps.health. trust, respect, qld.gov.au/swest/our_district/feedback-form and listening, no badgering or butting in, no rolling of eyes help us understand and work to eliminate processes or negative verbal responses, no speaking over, and and actions that don’t add value to our patient’s or our including everyone regardless of level - are important staff’s experience. to a healthy workplace culture. And we believe that manner comes before matter. Learning the professional techniques for being able to disagree or challenge or explore matters, can always be done in a respectful and inclusive, professional and positive way. Our leaders committed to doing more than just paying lip service to the idea of positive communication and contributing to an engaged and productive workforce – but to actually take steps to achieve it. We want to think differently about management, leadership, employee satisfaction and engagement, and having our people bring their best selves to work. Putting it simply, we know everyone just wants to see
The Pulse August 2019 9 WE PUT PEOPLE AT THE HEART OF EVERYTHING WE DO
Looking after our people: Occupational Violence Incident Response Kits South West is committed to creating healthy and safe workplaces where our people and teams can thrive and achieve their best – it is fundamental to the success of our services across rural and remote south west Queensland. As part of this focus, we understand that the health and wellbeing of our people is multi-dimensional and linked to our physical, psychological, financial, social and work wellbeing. One of our new initiatives to strengthen The Safety and Wellbeing team would like to thank the systems, processes and resources available to our the Queensland Occupational Violence Strategy Unit teams is the Occupational Violence Incident Response for their assistance in the preparation and printing of Kit. this resource. The team are hoping the kits will also be The Safety and Wellbeing team were instrumental in available online in the near future, as well as having the bringing the kit to the South West and ensuring it is hard copies at all facilities. accessible across the South West for all staff. All facilities were also provided with a new suite of The resource is intended to support all professional posters for display in public areas focussing on “respect streams at any time of day and is an invaluable tool for staff”. for line managers to help them navigate the processes We encourage all mangers to ensure they are familiar following the occurrence of an occupational violence with the elements within the Kit, and have discussed incident. it at local staff meetings. For more information, please The kit also provides staff with the ability to access the contact the Safety and Wellbeing Team. steps to follow in the event of a serious occupational violence incident. The post incident process has been conceptualised into five steps covering • What does occupational violence look like and why does it occur • Immediate response including use of duress alarms or contacting Queensland Police Service, and the Injury Management Process in the event of a WorkCover claim being lodged by a staff member • Psychological first aid for employees including contacts for support hotlines • Escalating the incident including reporting the incident on RiskMan • Follow up support for staff including follow up by line managers on the wellbeing of staff affected by the incident.
10 South West Hospital and Health Service HEALTHY COMMUNITIES, HEALTHY AGEING SENIORS WEEK ACTIVITIES IN CHARLEVILLE South West Hospital and Health Service sets the interests they have had in their lives. benchmark for improving health outcomes, and in Because as everyone’s healthcare needs are different, particular, healthy ageing in rural and remote areas. so too are our solutions to keep people engaged, By connecting healthcare professionals, research healthy and active. and community groups, government bodies and local The Seniors Week activities are coordinated by a Community members at a human level, we share a committee: passion for healthy ageing that gives everyone the Healthy Ageing Program | Charleville Neighbourhood opportunity to understand, take ownership of, be Centre Waroona | CWAATSICH | Far West Indigenous inspired by and affect the future of ageing in the region. Family Violence Service | Commonwealth Home Support We don’t focus on treating illness or on impairment. We Program focus on treating people and tap into the strengths and
Augathella Fun Day 21 August
Seniors Week Fun Day 23 August
The Pulse August 2019 11 Waroona Fun Day 26 August
Fishing at the Ward River 27 August
Fancy Dress Luncheon 28 August
12 South West Hospital and Health Service HEALTHY COMMUNITIES, HEALTHY AGEING SENIORS WEEK ACTIVITIES IN SURAT
The Pulse August 2019 13 WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP TO IMPROVE HEALTH OUTCOMES New alliance to help combat funding” Mrs Patat said. chronic disease in South West “Our key focus is to build this partnership Queensland to achieve quality outcomes for our communities and particularly for those It was a significant occasion for Western people in the community with chronic Queensland in Charleville recently when a new disease, making sure every person has Alliance was formed with leading health care access to the right care for them in the organisations. service that suits their needs best.
The Alliance, an initiative between the Sheryl Lawton, CEO CWAATSICH said the Cunnamulla Aboriginal Corporation for improved management and prevention Health (CACH), Charleville and Western of chronic disease was an important rural Areas Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Community Health Ltd (CWAATSICH), South Islander Health issue. West Hospital and Health Service (SWHHS), and Western Queensland Primary Health “We believe this new alliance is going Network (WQPHN), has been implemented to to provide important breakthroughs in develop a formal memorandum of agreement ensuring better health outcomes for our for local planning, and commissioning and people,” Ms Lawton said. delivery of integrated health services in the Far West region. “The value of working in partnership and ensuring complimentary service delivery SWHHS’s Chief Executive Linda Patat said this across each rural community is considered was a very significant advancement for health a high priority to strengthen both primary in Western Queensland and Australia. and community care, and access to acute care, and particularly for our Aboriginal “One of our key objectives in the South West is and Torres Strait Islander community to develop strong, innovative and meaningful members.” partnership with other leading stakeholders so we can closely integrate and deliver a more WQPHN CEO Stuart Gordon wanted to joined up program, workforce expertise, and emphasise the importance of the joint Alliance.
“Improving health outcomes and reducing the impacts of chronic disease requires coordination and joint planning to customise care around the unique needs of outback populations,” Mr Gordon said.
“Ensuring people have access to the right care at the right time takes a team and the Alliance is providing this leadership and is Kerry Crumblin (CEO CACH), Stuart Gordon (CEO WQPHN), already informing shared approaches that Linda Patat (CE SWHHS), Sheryl Lawton (CEO CWAATSICH) will better integrate services and bring new and Matthew Cooke (CEO Gladstone Region Aboriginal and approaches to care on the ground.” Islander Community Controlled Health Service Limited t/a Nhulundu Health Service)
14 South West Hospital and Health Service NEW ALLIANCE IN WESTERN QUEENSLAND: Signing the new formal Memorandum of Agreement to ensure quality clinical care is easily available to enhance health outcomes in Western Queensland are (front from left) WQPHN Chair Dallas Leon, SWHH Board Chair Jim McGowan AM, CACH Chair Uncle Ted Burns; (back from left) WQPHN CEO Stuart Gordon, SWHHS CE Linda Patat, CACH CEO Kerry Crumblin and CWAATSICH CEO Sheryl Lawton.
The Pulse August 2019 15 OUR AGED CARE TEAMS - THE BEST HERE IN THE SOUTH WEST Aged care staff in the South West celebrated their own special day with 7 August being observed as national Aged Care Employee Day. South West Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Linda Patat said it was fitting the day was observed as the health service was a major provider of aged care services in the region. She said the day was designed to celebrate each and every team member involved in the journey of caring for older Australians. “From the nurses and care workers, to the cooks and hospitality teams, to the drivers, cleaners, wards people and laundry employees, to the volunteers, to the leisure and lifestyle officers and administration teams – this day is to recognise the entire workforce,’’ she said. “Here in the South West, we have two large, regional aged care facilities at Waroona in Charleville and Westhaven in Roma, as well as seven multipurpose health services that offer localised residential aged care services within their communities. “We also have a range of community aged care services throughout the region that support older residents to stay in their own homes for longer. Putting a smile on people’s faces – Westhaven Aged Care Facility Assistant in Nursing Rebecca Spence.
“We are committed to ensuring the Westhaven Aged Care Facility in Roma, where she our elderly residents can continue has worked for nearly 15 years, is one of those workers. living and receiving care in their Ms Spence said it was very satisfying to be in a home communities, or as close as profession that allowed her to deliver quality care to people, thereby allowing them to continue living within possible to them. and connecting with their communities. “Being close to family, “If I can put a smile on a person’s face each day and friends and well-known make them happy, then that’s made my day,’’ she said. spaces is a major contributor to emotional Registered Nurse Robyn Richards has been working at and physical wellbeing Waroona for the past four years. and we are pleased “I grew up in Charleville, started my nursing career as a and proud to be able student nurse at the hospital here and then I moved to to support our elderly the city, went on to get my nursing degree and worked residents in this way. in other places before moving back to the country four “I urge everyone in the years ago,’’ she said. South West to pause a “I love working at Waroona and I’m very proud of the moment and consider quality of care we deliver to our residents. the huge and positive “All the staff I work with are very caring, considerate contribution aged care and compassionate. It’s a great work environment and service workers make we make it as home-like as possible for our residents.’’ to the lives of our older residents and the wider • For further information or to access resources to Waroona Multipurpose Centre community.’’ support Aged Care Employee Day visit: http://www. Registered Nurse Robyn Richards agedcareday.com.au/ – working with a caring and Rebecca Spence, an compassionate team. Assistant in Nursing at
16 South West Hospital and Health Service HAVE A WORD WITH YOUR LOCAL SPEECH PATHOLOGISTS South West Hospital and Health Service speech “We’re all here to help adults and children with any pathologists were keen to get the word out about their communication and swallowing problems,’’ she said. services around the region during Speech Pathology Week. This year’s Speech Pathology Week theme
“During Speech Pathology Week from 25–31 August, was “Communicating with Confidence’’. we wanted to let local residents know about our services and what we can do for them,’’ Senior Speech Ms Hall-Cronin said more than 1.2 million Australians Pathologist Bryanna Hall-Cronin said. had a communication or swallowing disorder that impacted on their daily life and could affect their Ms Hall-Cronin said the South West Hospital and Health confidence in day-to-day activities and interactions. Service employed five speech pathologists at Roma, Charleville and St George who delivered services right “Only 38 per cent of Australians with communication across the region. disability are participating in the workforce compared
The Pulse August 2019 17 with 80 per cent of people without communication • Communication. You need to be able to make disability,’’ she said. sounds, words and then sentences. You need to know the rules of putting words together and also “People with communication disability are also less when to talk or not. likely to have a non-school qualification (42 per cent), than those without communication disability (61 per • Saying sounds. Some children take longer to learn cent). to use the right sounds in words. Some adults have slurred speech or dysarthria as a result of “Like mobility or wheelchair access, communication neurological conditions. access allows people with communication disorders to get their message across by removing barriers to • Reading and talking. It is important to identify effective communication or providing extra support and difficulties early as these skills are essential at strategies. school and for life.
“That’s what speech pathologists are trained to • Listening. When children have ear infections, they help people with. Our speech services begin with may develop hearing problems which can affect how initial screening for communication and swallowing they learn to talk. disorders.’ • Talking. Some people have difficulties producing “We then continue with assessment and diagnosis fluent speech (e.g. stuttering) or may have voice and then consultation to provide advice regarding difficulties causing their voice to change or to lose management, intervention, and treatment.’’ their voice (dysphonia).
Ms Hall-Cronin said it was vital to tackle problems early. • Alternative communication. Some people are born with or acquire conditions that make it very difficult “Early talking skills are important for success in school for them to talk. We can help these people find ways as we know that weak language skills in the preschool to communicate other than talking. years will likely cause lower achievement in later years,’’ she said. • Eating and drinking. Some people are born with conditions such as a cleft palate, autism, or “Early interventions to increase talking and cerebral palsy; have an accident or a condition like understanding skills can significantly increase later Parkinson’s which affects their ability to safely eat, success in school. drink and swallow.
“As speech pathologists, we all try to encourage and • Babies and children feeding. Some babies have show families how to play, read and yarn with their difficulties feeding. A child may have trouble children to help prevent some communication problems transitioning to solids or have sensory difficulties from developing. which make them avoid eating. We can provide strategies and support for helping these little ones “In a hospital setting, where we also work, we can help to eat safely and enjoyably. people with eating, drinking and swallowing problems that might arise with certain conditions. Ms Hall-Cronin said South West residents could ask her or her colleagues for ideas to help with any of those “We also provide counselling and follow-up services for issues. whatever related problems clients are experiencing.’’ “As you can see, we do a lot more than just help people Ms Hall-Cronin said speech pathologists could help get their words out and we are always happy to chat with the following: about any concerns you may have,’’ she said.
18 South West Hospital and Health Service TIME TO CELEBRATE OUR PEOPLE Staff Awards 2019 - nominations now open and commitment at the highest levels. This year’s Annual Staff Awards have been officially launched Engagement by South West’s Chief Executive Linda Patat. The Annual To be awarded to an employee or team who epitomises the Staff Awards are an opportunity to celebrate our people essence of team work and works inclusively with others in a and recognise our colleagues who have made a significant multidisciplinary environment; works in collaboration with contribution to the South West Hospital and Health Service staff, clients and communities to deliver improved health (SWHHS) and live out our values in the workplace. care; and strives to deliver services in the best interests of our Every week we hear amazing and remarkable stories of clients and seeks to improve their ability and willingness to individuals, teams and initiatives going ‘above and beyond’ manage their own health and care. to ensure we deliver the best health service and build a great Adaptability place to work. Great work happens across our health service every day and it is the ordinary that creates the extraordinary To be awarded to an employee or team who regularly to make a real difference to the lives of people we touch. The demonstrates adaptability and flexibility in dealing with the Annual Staff Awards are a small way of saying a big thank you daily challenges of their work; approaches challenges with to our wonderful staff for their dedication and commitment confidence, professionalism and integrity; and is open- in providing first-class health care to the South West minded in adapting to change, diversity and differences of communities. opinion. The SWHHS Staff Awards “Leading the way in rural and remote Jim and Jill Baker Award healthcare” reinforces our commitment to our five values and Supporting a culture of excellence – To be awarded to a team acknowledges staff that make a significant contribution and or individual who fosters a positive culture where people have demonstrate a strong commitment to our values of Quality, pride in their health service; provides service and care in a Compassion, Accountability, Engagement and Adaptability. professional manner, exceeds the expectations of the SWHHS, It is through this solid commitment that our vision will be consumers and community; and promotes excellence, best achieved “To be a national leader in the delivery of health practice and innovation to improve the level of service services to rural and remote communities”. to the clients, patients and consumers of the South West communities. This year the awards will recognise the Community Volunteer Award significant contribution and distinction of To be awarded to a consumer / community member or team our staff across seven categories including who demonstrates commitment to both the local community our five values, the Jim and Jill Baker Award and health facility through; demonstrating commitment – Supporting a Culture of Excellence and the to both the local community and health facility through a proactive partnership to achieve better health outcomes; Community Volunteer Award. contributing their time and goes out of their way to make a difference to the health system; advocating for consumer and Quality community needs and; partnering with the health service to drive continuous improvement in their local communities. To be awarded to an employee or team who demonstrates a commitment to excellence in the delivery of quality person To ensure extraordinary achievements and contributions centred care; continuously strives for improvement and get the recognition deserved, all staff are encouraged to excellence in all that they do; and demonstrates the highest nominate their colleagues or teams for work being developed standards of patient care and reliability. or delivered. Compassion Nominations are now open and will close at 5pm on Monday 30 September 2019. Award guidelines and nomination form To be awarded to an employee or team who continually can be accessed at https://qheps.health.qld.gov.au/swest/ demonstrates compassion and treats all people with people-and-culture/staff-awards (QHEPS page) kindness, dignity and respect in the performance of their duties. Recipients of the Staff Awards will be announced on Monday, 28 October 2019 at an awards ceremony to be held in Roma Accountability at the Explorer’s Inn where we will have the opportunity to To be awarded to an employee or team who hold themselves celebrate and acknowledge the commitment of our people to and others accountable to the code of conduct and ethical our values and excellence in rural and remote healthcare. behaviour; addresses the appropriateness of their behaviour in relation to SWHHS values; and demonstrates accountability
The Pulse August 2019 19 ANNUAL Staff Awards Leading the way in rural and remote healthcare
IT’S TIME TO MAKE YOUR NOMINATION
Do you know a staff member who promotes excellence in the delivery of health services? Do you know a staff member who makes a significant contribution and demonstrates a strong commitment to our five values? Nominate them today!
Nominations close on Monday 30 September 2019.
You can make your staff award nomination by reading the nomination guidelines and completing the nomination form available: https://qheps.health.qld.gov.au/swest/people-and- © 2019 | South West Hospital and Health Service - leading the way in rural & remote healthcare culture/staff-awards South West Hospital and Health Service acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land, and pays respect to Elders past, present and future. THE VITAL ROLE OF OUR PARTNERSHIPS WITH COMMUNITIES
CAN Chair - Thargomindah - Julie Stewart Julie Stewart with her family, Scott, Bonnie and Charlize (front) Having a passion for her community and ensuring health needs are met in Thargomindah is what encouraged Julie Stewart to join the town’s Hospital Auxiliary five years ago. That same day she not only became the President of the Thargomindah Hospital Auxiliary but also the Chair of the Community Advisory Network (CAN). “I have lived in the beautiful town of Thargomindah for the past eight years and have two beautiful little girls aged 13 and seven. Five years ago I decided I wanted to give back and help the community, so I decided to volunteer and join the Hospital Auxiliary,” Julie said. “I was unaware of the Community Advisory Network at this point in time and to my surprise I was voted in as the CAN Chair and Hospital Auxiliary President that night.” Julie said since joining the CAN she has realised what a difference this Network could make. “The CAN really holds a special place in my heart as it gives us such an instrumental platform with the South West Hospital and Health Service and Queensland Health in ensuring Thargomindah doesn’t miss out,” “We have also been granted a paid volunteer position for our Ambulance Service which helps our nurse for any she said. call outs if needed. This gives the nurse more dedicated “In my role (as CAN Chair) I am dedicated to helping time with the patient, without having to drive and care Thargomindah reach our dreams and goals and not for them at the same time. miss out on specialist services our city counterparts are “We have also been very fortunate to have had donated fortunate enough to have. from Queensland Health a dentist waiting chair.” “Our nurses are very special to us as they fly in and Julie has been overwhelmed by the constant support out of Thargomindah on a fortnightly basis and we from the South West Hospital and Health Service and greatly appreciate the service both of the nurses Allan Queensland Health and is hopeful this support will Thompson and Chris Dodd bring to our little town”. continue well into the future. Julie said she was extremely proud of the Thargomindah I would sincerely like to thank Julie on behalf of the CAN having been successful in getting a Queensland South West for her enthusiasm, dedication and Health doctor visit the town on a monthly basis. commitment. Julie’s partnership and support with our “This monthly visit has benefitted our community service is invaluable and is an important and strong immensely as prior to this we would be on the waiting connection as we work together to shape, design and list for the flying doctor service who sometimes didn’t deliver the best possible health service. Thank you Julie make the trip due to other calls coming through. for sharing the voice of your community and helping “This meant the waiting lists would grow and we could making a difference to your community to improve see the stress this put on our community, so we are very health outcomes. Your work is inspirational and you thankful for our new monthly doctor visits. should be proud of your efforts. Thank you, Linda.
The Pulse August 2019 21 NEW AUSTRALIAN CHARTER OF HEALTHCARE RIGHTS EMPOWERS PATIENTS AS PARTNERS South West embraces promotion of the Charter of Mitchell DON Kate Field pictured in front Safety and Quality Healthcare Rights as a way of partnering with our of the Healthcare Rights Charter in her Commission, as part facility of the launch of the consumers Charter. A revised edition of the Australian Charter of Healthcare Consumer groups Rights was recently released by the Australian Commission and advocates on Safety and Quality in Health Care, and is now available have welcomed to all community members, consumers, and their loved the renewed focus ones. that a new Charter The new Charter encourages and empowers people brings on the rights receiving healthcare to take an active role in decisions of patients, their about their care, and reflects an increased focus on families and carers. person-centred care. “Australia is among The Charter outlines what every person can expect a small number when receiving care, and describes seven fundamental of countries to rights including: access, safety, respect, partnership, have a Charter of information, privacy and giving feedback. Its use is Healthcare Rights. embedded in the National Safety and Quality Health The Charter helps Service (NSQHS) Standards that South West must meet to crystallise what consumers can expect from their health stay accredited. care. These attitudes and expectations will continue to evolve and grow and the Charter will evolve with them, The release of the second edition of the Charter marks and that is a good thing,” said Melissa Fox, Chief Executive the first major update to the original Charter, adopted by Officer of Health Consumers Queensland. Australian Health Ministers in 2008. “The Charter forms an integral part of our principels and approach to delivery “We look forward to the Charter coming to life through its truly person-centred care, and provides an opportunity to promotion and use throughout health services and the refresh and further build on our strong foundations in this community.” area,” said Linda Patat, HSCE. The Charter assists healthcare professionals and staff, who “Community attitudes to health are constantly evolving can use it to discuss with patients their rights when using and the Charter has been reviewed with respect to those our services. The Commission has developed resources changing expectations, to ensure it reflects what the wider to support healthcare providers when discussing patient community believe are their appropriate healthcare rights rights, and also information for consumers and carers. in today’s landscape, and to clarify areas that required The second edition Charter has been embraced across further explanation. the South West, and has been prominently displayed in “The new Charter all facilities where services are provided, in waiting areas explains a patient’s for visitors and family to view, and forms a mandatory part rights to privacy in of admission information to consumers and their loved practice, it expands ones. Linda Patat, HSCE, said she has written to each on the importance of our Community Advisory Network Chairs to ask them of informed consent to table and discuss the Charter at their next meeting to and open disclosure, ensure we raise awareness and take the time to review and it reflects the and understand its’ intents. “Our Community Advisory increased focus of the Networks are such valuable partners and advocates in medical profession ensuring we stay true to the principles of the Charter and on partnering with continuously find ways to further localise and improve the consumer in the how we work in ways that have our local consumers at the delivery of health forefront of everything we do. care in Australia,” To watch an information session and find out more said Professor Villis St George DON Sheila Marshall information about the Charter, visit: https://www. Marshall AC, Chair showcases the new Healthcare Rights Charter on display in St George. safetyandquality.gov.au/your-rights of the National
22 South West Hospital and Health Service STATEWIDE HEALTH PRIORITIES TAKE HOLD Hospital and Health Board Chairs, Health Service Chief Executives, attendees identified the need to extend the capital investment senior clinicians, health consumers and external stakeholders met program from one to three years. It was noted that this measure in Brisbane on 15 and 16 August for the Minister’s Rapid Results would allow hospital and health services to better plan for future Program Workshop. capital needs. The purpose of the workshop was to celebrate the successes that Efficient procurement have been achieved within Queensland Health’s transformation The establishment of state-wide purchasing principles and a agenda, the Rapid Results Program, identify enablers and obstacles, governance structure that enables hospital and health services to identify opportunities for acceleration and identify the next phase of play a greater role in effective procurement was identified as a key the Program. priority of the Rapid Results Program. Attendees noted that partnerships with health consumers, clinicians Networked governance and health service leaders were key to the successful outcomes that Building a networked health system that encourages knowledge have been achieved. This collaborative approach will continue to sharing and efficient bureaucracy was identified as a key priority of be a feature of the Rapid Results Program. The following provides a the Rapid Results Program. Attendees noted the need for a strategic summary of the areas of focus: narrative, culture change and behavioural economics to achieve this. Patient off Stretcher Time (POST) Sustainable health services The Rapid Results Program will take a greater focus on improving Attendees considered a new set of priorities focused on health Patient off Stretcher Time (POST). Three key priority areas were system sustainability. Initiatives are to be locally-led as well as state- endorsed: wide, focusing in areas including theatre and outpatient utilisation. 1. identifying alternative hospital entry pathways Next steps 2. improving health service discharge policies, and The feedback from the Minister’s Rapid Results Program Workshop will inform the development of the work plan of the Program for the 3. enabling Patient Access Coordination Hubs (PACHs) to view all next 12 months. alternate pathways. New Rapid Results projects will be established where relevant, Care closer to home informed by the ideas and priorities from the workshops. Delivering care closer to home for rural and remote Queenslanders Information gathered will also sharpen the focus of existing projects will continue to be an objective of the Rapid Results Program. The as they move through implementation. Some of the existing projects following key focus areas were prioritised: will move into an ‘embed and monitor’ phase. 1. innovative models of care that utilise technology A high-level 12-month work plan will be presented to the October meeting of the Rapid Results Program Delivery Board for 2. balancing expectations through increased community endorsement. This work plan will inform more detailed project engagement, and design, including co-design workshops for new priority projects to 3. improving attraction and retention of our rural and remote health harness the value of close collaboration with consumers, clinicians workforce and health system leaders. Empowering data Representatives from the South West remain involved in several Empowering clinicians and health professionals and consumers with of the key areas of focus to ensure the best outcomes for rural and data was identified as a key enabler of success for each of the Rapid remote communities at both the local and system levels. Results Program areas. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership Increasing the representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders on Hospital and Health Boards was identified as the next most important step in advancing the objectives of Rapid Results Area 4. Digital foundations Attendees noted the need for establishing a strong digital foundation for Queensland hospitals and the opportunity to scale existing pockets of excellence. From left CE North West HHS Lisa Davies Jones CE North West, North West HH Board Chair Paul Woodhouse, Jane Williams – Central Capital investment West HHS Board Chair, SWHH Board Chair Jim McGowan AM and CE To find efficiencies in the cost of capital business case processes, SWHHS Linda Patat.
The Pulse August 2019 23 SOUTH WEST HOSPITAL & HEALTH SERVICE – CLINICAL COUNCIL The South West HHS Clinical Council has been renewed and had its first meeting on Thursday 15 August with a new vision to better link front line services to management and executive needs.
New Council Chair St George SMO, Dr Adam Coltzau said that he “hoped the Clinical Council could be a conduit for the flow of information from front line clinicians through to management and exec level. The Clinical Council is a way for front line staff to have their voices heard.”
“The new focus will be on staff wellbeing and well as implementing many of the outcomes from the Queensland Clinical Senate” Dr Coltzau said.
The South West Clinical Council is made of clinical staff from all disciplines including, nursing, medical and allied health staff, with representative from dental and aged care as well as remote staff from all corners of the South West.
The Clinical Council meet four times a year and will progress a large body of work in between meeting, with a direct report now through to the SW HSCE it is hoped that it will have a more important role going forward.
PRINCIPLES OF WELLBEING
P1 – The health and wellbeing of clinicians directly P4 – Maximise access to wellbeing resources impacts the care we provide. Tools are accessible, support services are available This underpins all other principles. and education provided to maximise opportunities for wellbeing. P2 – Creating a positive health and wellbeing culture A culture that supports the health and wellbeing of P5 – We practice civility, empathy and kindness all staff is embedded throughout all organisational We smile and say hello. Everyone is empowered to tiers. Clinicians are encouraged to talk openly about challenge, discourage and act on incivility. issues impacting wellbeing. Our leaders prioritise and enable wellbeing for all. To see the latest from the Queensland Clinical Senate Chair, Dr Alex Markwell visit https://mailchi.mp/ P3 – Commitment to continually improve e730b6bc46eb/latest-news-from-the-senate Collaboration between organisations, teams and individuals is pursued to continually improve wellbeing in the routine and the extreme. We emphasise and encourage positive change.
24 South West Hospital and Health Service SOUTH WEST STRENGTHENS TRANSPARENCY AND PERSON- CENTREDNESS IN SAFETY AND QUALITY OUTCOMES Across South West the commitment and initiatives to deliver excellence against the National Safety and Quality Standards continue to go from strength to strength. Each acute service area has adopted the ‘Patient Safety and Quality Performance Boards’ as a way of sharing our performance and areas of focused continuous improvement with staff, consumers, and the community more broadly.
The National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) Standards provide a nationally consistent statement of the level of care consumers can expect • to protect the public from harm from health service organisations. • to improve the quality of health service provision. The primary aims of the National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) Standards are to protect the They provide a quality assurance mechanism that tests public from harm and to improve the quality of health whether relevant systems are in place to ensure that service provision. When used in assessment they expected standards of safety and quality are met. provide a quality assurance mechanism that tests whether relevant systems are in place to ensure that Second edition expected standards of safety and quality are met. South The second edition of the NSQHS Standards was West is currently preparing for accreditation against the endorsed by Health Ministers in June 2017, and released Standards in February 2020. in November 2017. Assessment to the second edition The NSQHS Standards commenced in January 2019.
The NSQHS Standards were developed by the Australian Safe and high-quality care requires the vigilance and Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care cooperation of the whole healthcare workforce. It is (the Commission) in collaboration with the Australian based on a risk mitigation approach that focuses on Government, states and territories, the private sector, implementing the NSQHS Standards as routine practice clinical experts, patients and carers. The primary aims and identifies healthcare staff responsible for specific of the NSQHS Standards are: actions. The second edition addresses gaps identified in the first edition, including:
• Mental health
• Cognitive impairment
• Health literacy
• End-of-life care
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health.
It also updates the evidence for actions, consolidates and streamlines standards and actions to make them clearer and easier to implement.
The second edition of the NSQHS Standards comprises eight standards. Clinical Governance and Partnering
The Pulse August 2019 25 with Consumers Standards combine to form the clinical governance framework for all health service organisations. They support and integrate with all the clinical standards, which cover specific areas of patient care. The eight standards are:
• Clinical Governance Standard • Partnering with Consumers Standard • Preventing and Controlling Healthcare-associated Infection Standard • Medication Safety Standard • Comprehensive Care Standard • Communicating for Safety Standard • Blood Management Standard • Recognising and Responding to Acute Deterioration Standard.
For more information, visit the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Healthcare website, https:// www.safetyandquality.gov.au/standards/nsqhs- standards/implementation-nsqhs-standards, discuss with your Line Manager, or contact the Service Improvement Team.
26 South West Hospital and Health Service #SWSPIRIT RECIPIENT MAREE MITCHELL
Through her solution focused approach, vision and compassion for the people she helps, Maree Mitchell has been nominated by her peers as this month’s #SWspirit recipient.
A quiet achiever, Maree works behind the scenes to ensure the Paediatric Services are delivered from Brisbane to St George, Roma and Charleville.
As the Administrative Assistant to the Paediatric Service, Primary and Community Care, Maree works hard to ensure families are seen in a timely manner and is always looking at ways to improve the service and support the clinicians on the ground.
She is flexible and changes her working hours to accommodate the clinic days always finishing well after her rostered time.
And although Maree does not provide direct patient care herself she is client and family centred in all that she does.
She takes all aspects into account, from family commitments including travel time to the pressures of having children with chronic and acute illnesses, and she communicates this with the broader team to ensure rewarding and to be able to be a part of a child’s their voices and needs are heard. journey through life is such a rewarding experience,” Maree said. Maree started working for the South West at the end of 2015 in the programme support administrative position, “Working within the Paediatric Service, I witness the working closely with the managers in Community and journey children and their families take within our Allied Health team in Roma. service and it is a terrific feeling when a child has finished their treatment and is discharged. For the last three years she has been employed in her role with the Paediatrician Outreach Service, working “There are families that remain with the service for with the clinical nurse and the paediatrician. a considerable time for various reasons and I really admire these families and their ability to care for a child The very humbled #SWspirit recipient said she felt with special needs. extremely lucky to work with such an amazing group of people. “It is wonderful that we are able to provide such a fantastic service to the families across the South West.” “I have always found working with children very
The Pulse August 2019 27 ANOTHER KEY MILESTONE MET IN NEW ROMA HOSPITAL BUILD
The Roma Hospital Redevelopment reached an “The roof for the hospital and services building are now important milestone recently with the dismantling of complete, and delivery and installation of major plant the 33m-high tower crane. and machinery, such as chillers and heat pumps, have been craned into the building. The crane, which has graced the Roma skyline since January, was dismantled over the course of several “The structural steel is also largely complete, and the hours on Saturday, closing out what has been an scaffold has progressively been removed so residents important part of the construction program. will now be able to see large portions of the façade, which shows how the building has taken shape.” Watpac Project Manager, Brett Rosenthal, said the dismantling of the crane signified the start of the next With focus now on internal works, Mr Rosenthal said phase of construction. there was still plenty to be done over the coming months. “Knight Saber, as our crane has been fondly called, has played an important role in getting us to this exciting “Internal works continue, with painting and fit-out point of the project,” Mr Rosenthal said proceeding steadily and permanent power to be
28 South West Hospital and Health Service hospital, will provide 22 beds and two birth suites, with departments including emergency, allied health, medical imaging, inpatient wards, pathology, medical records and central sterilising.
Additional facilities to be delivered include theatres, a mortuary, reception, administration areas, staff lounge, training rooms, laundry, kitchen, a cafe and plant rooms. Two new car parks are also included as part of the project which will provide over 220 free parking spaces for hospital visitors.
The redevelopment is part of the Queensland Government’s $180 million Enhancing Regional connected by the end of September,” he said. Hospitals program and will create more than 340 direct and indirect jobs throughout the construction process, “Floor finishes have already begun and are progressing upskilling local workers and engaging with local well, with external works such as landscaping, industry. footpaths and roadworks to commence shortly.”
South West Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Linda Patat said with each milestone achieved, the new Roma Hospital was progressing ever closer to completion.
“The overall build is expected to be finished by mid– 2020 but with the essential external structure of the building now largely complete, Roma residents can see the shape of their new hospital,’’ she said.
“It is a major new addition to the overall Roma skyline as well as continuing to be a significant driving force in boosting the local economy.’’
Ms Patat said while the Knight Saber tower crane might be leaving the city, its distinctive flag would be remaining in Roma and would be presented later to St John’s Roma student Sydney Bentley who had won the locally run competition to give the crane its name.
“I think it’s entirely appropriate for this little piece of Roma history to remain here and with the person who helped make the history,’’ she said.
Once completed the new three-level Roma Hospital, which is being constructed adjacent to the existing
The Pulse August 2019 29 YOU MATTER – HAVE YOUR SAY!
Workforce Qld Survey is now open
The 2019 WfQ employee engagement survey is open and will remain open until Monday 23 September. We would love to get 100% participation inorder to ensure that each and every employee’s voice is heard. Everyone has a part to play, make your opinion count!
How you benefit
Last year, we used your valuable survey feedback to better your work experience and we are hoping to build on this after we collate this year’s results.
About the WfQ
This annual survey gives you an opportunity to improve your work experience, while helping shape the future of Queensland. An invaluable tool for our team, the 2–23 Sep 2019 employee survey is: A better workplace is everyone’s responsibility. Join the conversation and help drive positive change. • Quick and convenient forgov.qld.gov.au/working-queensland-survey • 100% confidential • Optional • A way for you to share honest feedback • A tool to improve your work experience We will be sending out regular emails and reminders It’s confidential about the WfQ Survey prior to its launch and during the survey period. Qualtrics does not release individual data to Public Service Commission or anyone else, survey answers are Thank you in advance for taking the time to complete entirely anonymous. this year’s survey.
Get ready! You would already have received an email invitation to take part in the survey. Your feedback is extremely important and greatly impacts the direction of our organisation.
30 South West Hospital and Health Service