The Pulse April 2020 KEEPING HEALTHY and ACTIVE DURING COVID-19

South West Hospital and Health Service

PULSE APRIL 2020 EDITION From the Board Chair, Jim McGowan AM 4

From the Chief Executive, Linda Patat 5

OUR COMMUNITIES

Responding to COVID-19 – Thank you for all helping slow the spread 6

SWHHS fleet cars are COVID ready! 7

Keeping healthy and active during COVID-19 8

Positive message for staff in St George 9

New app to help keep Australians safe 10

We are ALL the patient experience – Patient Experience Week 2020 11

Telehealth brings joy to one of our youngest patients 12

Cardiac rehab helping kick goals in the community 13

Wally loves a ‘yarn’ again thanks to Bree 13

Let’s see what the SWHHS Healthy Communities team love to do 14

Student placements go virtual for SWHHS 16

OUR TEAMS

Two Community Care staff graduate 17

South West welcomes new Exercise Physiologist 18

Jenny says farewell to South West 18

International Workers’ Memorial Day commemorated 19

OUR SERVICES

Quality care for people with mental health issues 19

Maternity goes virtual for COVID-19 20

Surat General Practice successfully renews national accreditation 21

Student accommodation in Roma gets the green light 22

APRIL #SWSPIRIT AWARD WINNER 23IS…

NEW ROMA HOSPITAL DEVELOPMENT24

Commissioning update 24

Construction progress 24 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, Dirranbandi – Kooma (Coo-ma) Mandandanji, Bigambul and Gungarri interests

Injune – Kongabula (Kong-ga-bull-a) Surat – Mandandanji (Mand-an-dand-gee)

Mitchell – Gunggari (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 Service Chief Executive.

3 South West Hospital and Health Service FROM THE BOARD CHAIR, JIM MCGOWAN AM

The contribution that you have all made to keeping the South West free of the dreaded COVID-19 virus has been outstanding. I commend all of you for your commitment to your communities. The change in focus as you moved to a community health prevention approach happened seamlessly. You have acted unselfishly and compassionately. The feedback from your communities has been very positive and that those people truly value the efforts of the “people on the frontline”. You can be Just don’t give up trying what justifiably very proud of yourselves and your colleagues. “ you really want to do. Where It has been a very difficult time for you, professionally and there is love and inspiration, for the community at large, socially and economically. I am hesitant to use the word “unprecedented”, but I cannot think I don’t think that you can of another suitable word to describe where we are at. However, go wrong.” it also reinforces what we know. We are very fortunate to live in the best country in the world. Compare the way in which our Ella Fitzgerald (1917-1996) Governments at all levels and of all political persuasions and our great health systems have responded compared to those in Jazz immortal the USA, UK and Europe. In times of adversity, innovations flourish. This is true of our current circumstances. Innovations and practices which have been discussed over long periods have been operationalised as part of our response to COVID-19. Innovative clinical models have included the expanded use of telehealth, including for primary care, “hospital in the home” approaches and greater access to community health services. Our response has necessitated greater cooperation across the entire system You are what you repeatedly and indeed nationally. This should encourage a longer-term “ commitment to this approach. When we emerge from this crisis, do. Excellence is not an we must build on these and not retreat from them. Similarly, event; it is a habit.” there are lessons from the deficiencies which have been exposed. These have largely been at the system level and the Aristotle (384-322BC) PPE issue is a classic illustration. Greek philosopher Like many, I am desperate for an end to the restrictions with which we have all had to live. To that I would like to add my voice to those advocating for people to download the COVID Safe app. Tracking those who have been in contact with people who have tested positive to the virus is a key responsibility for health workers as part of a broader strategy to limit the spread of the coronavirus. The app should make our obligation to track those who have been in contact with people who have the virus, quicker, simpler and more effective. That is in your interest and in the interests of us all! Jim McGowan AM

4 4 SouthSouth West West Hospital Hospital and and Health Health Service Service FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE, LINDA PATAT

I would like to start by echoing Jim’s Their benefits for patients and their feedback and sentiments in relation to the families, and in rethinking how healthcare contribution you have all made to keep is delivered will assist us to move closer to the South West free from the COVID-19 our strategic goal of delivering a different virus to date. The feedback from our type of healthcare, closer to home and communities and partners about your in the home when it is safe to do so; and efforts and your skill and willingness to care that is personalised and accessible recognition and gratitude), contribution go above and beyond at this time has when needed. and leadership actions (achieving one’s been outstanding. I thank you for living I would like to take this opportunity full potential). I would encourage you to our purpose and ensuring we continue to continue to encourage all staff to take a look if you haven’t seen it – it is a to deliver health services that our download the LifeWorks app, and to reach great resource and reminder for us all to communities trust and value. out to the many avenues we have been continue to lead compassionately, and lift As the world starts to think about promoting should you feel you would the human experience of our staff as well returning to a new normal, we remain like a little more support, or are just as those in our care. focused on the adjusting precautions interested in accessing what practical and Until next time, stay in touch, stay we have in place to ensure our at risk helpful resources are available to you. connected, and above all, continue to care community members, and our staff, For those who may have missed these compassionately – both for yourself and continue to remain safe. links or resources, they are all available for those around you. on our internal website under my staff As I write this section, we have just communiques or the staff wellbeing Yours in service seen some restrictions lifted, allowing section of the website. Alternatively, don’t more travel, more activities and larger L hesitate to speak with your Line Manager gatherings. We know that, all going well, who can also help you access anything WHERE’S further restrictions are planned to be you may need. LINDA lifted in June and July. Throughout these changes we will continue to be very There is no doubt we have faced a BEEN? cautious. We will ready ourselves for the significant challenge in the previous potential of outbreaks – and encourage months. We have been able to not only every single community member and staff adapt and adjust rapidly, but we have Well there’s not much change from member to get tested if unwell or have continued our focus on the human where Linda has been in the past symptoms, no matter how minor. experience in real and tangible ways. month. Linda is behind her desk in a Thank you to everyone who celebrated a virtual world and very much missing Whilst our work in preparing for and very different Patient Experience Week. getting out and about catching up responding to COVID-19 has consumed Each year on our annual calendar of with you. our last month, we have also made events, this is a significant one for us. progress in relation to several of our One that reinforces and refreshes our key priorities this time of year. These commitment to truly person-centred care; have included our annual budget build, and reminds us why we were drawn into the preparation of our forward year’s the roles we are in. It was timely during operational plans, and the Roma Hospital that week to also see the Pandemic build. I look forward to sharing our Kindness Movement released by the progress on these items at our upcoming Agency for Clinical Innovation in NSW Senior Leaders Forum, and Virtual Staff Health which is based on the well-known Town Hall Meeting (both which will be undertaken through our new ways of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. It talks working using our Teams link). Over the about each of our different needs: basic course of the coming months we will be needs (air, food, water, shelter and sleep), focusing on how we can maintain and safety (physical and psychological), love increase the opportunities telehealth has and belonging (kindness, community and provided during this time, along with other social connection), esteem (respect, different ways of working for teams and models of care that have been utilised.

5 The Pulse March 2020 RESPONDING TO COVID-19 – THANK YOU FOR ALL HELPING SLOW THE SPREAD

The curve has flattened and the South West has still This important public health initiative will help identify not recorded a positive case of COVID-19! anyone who you have had close contact with, including those people you didn’t know you had been near, who might Thank you to everyone for helping stop the spread be affected by coronavirus. Signing up to the app is also a across the South West. great way to support Australia’s response to the pandemic, and provide further assurances that existing restrictions Across Queensland there have been days where no new might be eased. cases have been recorded and, although it is still early days, we are on the right track due to the restrictions of In playing our part, we should all be cautiously optimistic social distancing, testing, tracing and isolating as well as that if everyone in Queensland continues to do the right continuing to ensure best practice hygiene. thing over the coming weeks, and we maintain our current excellent progress, we may see further changes in current The South West continues to focus on rigorous planning restrictions in the near future. with modelling undertaken to ensure our service can respond in the event there is a cluster outbreak. You would have also seen announcements made regarding returning services to normal which have been either paused Collaborative support and relationships remain in place with or reduced over the past weeks. We are currently working local and district disaster management groups, emergency through these matters with the Department of Health to firm services, police, ambulance and other providers to make up plans and to ensure the safety of our consumers. Further sure we are prepared, organised and connected. advice and information will be provided at the relevant time. Hopefully, your household will have been able to enjoy South West Hospital and Health Service has implemented all some recreation outdoors, having a well-deserved (healthy!) public health directions in accordance with the requirements picnic, or getting out boating and driving. Please remember outlined. In line with our person-centred care approach, it is vital that we all ensure we adhere to the CHO public dignity and respect have also been front and centre as health directions as we all must serve as a role model for always. We have been extremely mindful of our consumers others, as well as being a source of information for friends and their loved ones and we have continued to wrap our and family. care around patients in a compassionate and empathetic If you are yet to do so, you are also encouraged to stay way to ensure the human experience is elevated and our COVIDSafe by downloading the Australian Government’s service is one focused on quality outcomes and consumer voluntary app to assist in: satisfaction. 1. Protecting your family and friends 2. Protecting your community 3. Protecting yourself.

STOP THE SPREAD OF GERMS.

Wash your hands with soap many times, everyday.

6 6 South WestThe Hospital Pulse March and Health2020 Service SWHHS FLEET CARS ARE COVID READY!

Our Corporate Support Unit has been demonstrating SWHHS, in line with the latest COVID-19 infection control our ongoing commitment to employee health across advice, continues to recommend that drivers maintain the South West during the COVID-19 pandemic. approved social distancing measures inside all fleet vehicles, starting with booking the appropriate sized vehicle Our SWHHS fleet vehicles have been an area of focus during to ensure that passengers have 1.5m between them. We also the time as our vehicles are defined as a workplace and, as recommend that fresh air be increased in SWHHS vehicles such, all Queensland Health advice regarding hygiene applies. by opening windows or adjusting the air conditioning. The QFleet recommended vehicle and sanitisation guideline For more information on SWHHS Fleet sanitisation, contact has been adopted for all our vehicles with specific the Corporate Support Unit Manager on 4505 1548. instructions for drivers on wiping down surfaces commonly contacted whilst using a vehicle. Specific advice has also been provided regarding appropriate products to ensure a clean and healthy vehicular workplace. All supplies for fleet sanitisation can be purchased using the COVID-19 cost centre and internal order number.

7 The Pulse April 2020 KEEPING HEALTHY AND ACTIVE DURING COVID-19

With SWHHS Exercise Physiotherapist Bryce Brown. These unprecedented times have called for some different measures to ensure we are keeping active. With gyms closed, team sports on hold and social distancing measures in place we are having to make do with what we have at home or near our home. Walking and cycling are some of the easiest ways of keeping active. You can do these activities around your neighbourhood – they are easy and low impact, and support our mental health and immune system. All staff are encouraged to download the Lifeworks app for It is recommended adults complete 30 minutes of exercise quick and easy access to the wide range of resources and per day while for children an hour is recommended. We also support available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week including should be engaging in activities that strengthen our muscles podcasts, videos, toolkits and more. and bones on at least 2-3 days of the week. Keep in mind To access these workouts, simply: that it’s just as important to keep our brain active, learning a new skill such as an instrument, a language, juggling or 1. Download the LifeWorks App (available on both Apple even puzzles are a great way to do this. and Android devices) Here are a few more things you can do to help keep you 2. Use the username swhhs and password swhhs to log in moving: 3. Browse the various fantastic resources and follow the link to sign up to LIFT Sessions Routine – It is important we establish a routine. Previously, there were set gym class times, set walking 4. You will then be diverted to the LIFT Session landing page group times, set working hours, and set school times which to download the LIFT app to your mobile may now have all changed. So, designating a 30 minute 5. Complete the login information and a short fitness time-slot in the day to be active is a great way to stay assessment which ensures that your LIFT sessions are accountable. customised for you Move, and move often – Setting an alarm on your phone 6. Start your customised fitness journey with LifeWorks LIFT or watch to sound every 30 minutes is a good way to remind Fitness Sessions. us to stand up and walk around for a couple of minutes. This breaks up the length of time we are seated for. Equipment – You don’t need barbells, dumbbells or machines. Our bodyweight and a little help from gravity are great tools we can use to achieve our recommended 2-3 days of strengthening exercises. Have a small space set aside in your home specifically for exercise. The difficulty of LIFT Fitness Sessions an exercise can be adjusted to your level by: Start your fitness journey today. Achieve your fitness goals with LIFT virtual Increasing the number of times you do the exercise fitness sessions, through LifeWorks Total Wellbeing Platform. Reducing the amount of rest you have after an exercise Increasing the length of time you do an exercise for

Slowing the speed of an exercise down, to increase Anywhere, anytime virtual fitness sessions the time the muscle works for. Can’t make it to the gym? Don’t worry, LifeWorks is now bringing the to gym to you, through our LIFT session virtual fitness program. If you are struggling for exercise ideas, there are a range of Finding a workout that fits your lifestyle, especially now in these times of social distancing, is one of the most important things you can do to get started and stay motivated. That is why at LifeWorks we continue apps, such as LIFT Session, available for free via the SWHHS to offer innovative preventative measures to manage, not just your emotional wellbeing, but also your physical wellbeing. Lifeworks app, which focus on being able to exercise in the The positive link between emotional and physical wellbeing is a well researched scientific fact. home with minimal equipment. LifeWorks LIFT virtual fitness session program is now available to you on your mobile device. Helping you stay active, motivated and resilient, anytime, anywhere. Each session lasts 30 minutes and the typical journey is three sessions per week for a total duration of six weeks. No equipment required, and it’s free as part of your LifeWorks Employee Assistance Program.

Start your fitness journey today It only takes about 5 minutes to get you up and running. 1. LIFT sessions can be found in the quicklinks section on your LifeWorks App. 2. You will then be diverted to the LIFT Session landing page to download the LIFT App to your mobile. 3. Complete the login information and a short fitness assessment which ensures that your LIFT sessions are customised for you . 4. Start your customised fitness journey with LifeWorks LIFT Fitness 8 8 SouthSouth West West Hospital Hospital and Sessions.and Health Health Service Service

#covidkindness Positive messages keep staff going in St George Let us spread (St George Community and Allied Health using COVID-19 one of their white boards kindness as a positive message board during COVID) . across the South West

St George Hospital staff were treated to #covidkindess thanks to Annabelle Rogan who is normally a boarding student at Fairholme College. She kindly baked some Anzac cookies for the staff to enjoy as a thank you for everything they are doing during this time.

9 The Pulse MarchApril 2020 2020 NEW APP TO HELP KEEP AUSTRALIANS SAFE

The COVIDSafe app is part of our work to slow To be effective, you should have the COVIDSafe app running the spread of COVID-19. Having confidence we as you go about your daily business and meet people. Users can find and contain outbreaks quickly will mean will receive daily notifications to ensure the COVIDSafe app is running. governments can ease restrictions while still keeping Australians safe. The information is encrypted and that encrypted identifier is stored securely on your phone. Not even you can access The new COVIDSafe app is completely voluntary. it. The contact information stored in people’s mobiles is Downloading the app is something you can do to protect deleted on a 21-day rolling cycle. This period takes into you, your family and friends, and save the lives of other account the COVID-19 incubation period and the time it Australians. The more Australians connect to the COVIDSafe takes to get tested. app, the quicker we can find the virus. When an app user tests positive for COVID-19 The COVIDSafe app helps find close contacts of COVID-19 cases. The app helps state and territory health officials When someone is diagnosed with COVID-19, state and to quickly contact people who may have been exposed to territory health officials will ask them or their parent/ COVID-19. guardian who they have been in contact with. If they have the COVIDSafe app and provide their permission, the The COVIDSafe app speeds up the current manual process encrypted contact information from the app will be uploaded of finding people who have been in close contact with to a highly secure information storage system. State and someone with COVID-19. This means you’ll be contacted territory health officials will then: more quickly if you are at risk. This reduces the chances of you passing on the virus to your family, friends and other use the contacts captured by the app to support their people in the community. usual contact tracing State and territory health officials can only access app call people to let them or their parent/guardian know information if someone tests positive and agrees to the they may have been exposed information in their phone being uploaded. The health offer advice on next steps, including: what to look out for; officials can only use the app information to help alert those when, how and where to get tested; what to do to protect who may need to quarantine or get tested. friends and family from exposure. The COVIDSafe app is the only contact trace app approved Health officials will not name the person who was infected. by the Australian Government. Due to the safeguards available to protect privacy of users, we will never know how To download the app visit for apple users – many people in the South West download this important https://apps.apple.com/au/app/covidsafe/id1509242894 innovation but all staff members are encouraged to do so Android users – and to recommend their friends and families do the same. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=au.gov. health.covidsafe How COVIDSafe works When you download the app you provide your name, mobile number and postcode, and select your age range. You will receive a confirmation SMS text message to complete installation. The system then creates a unique encrypted reference code just for you. COVIDSafe recognises other devices with the COVIDSafe app installed and Bluetooth enabled. When the app recognises another user, it notes the date, time, distance and duration of the contact and the other user’s reference code. The COVIDSafe app does not collect your location.

1010 SouthSouth West West Hospital Hospital and and Health Health Service Service WE ARE ALL THE PATIENT EXPERIENCE – PATIENT EXPERIENCE WEEK 2020

Patient Experience (PX) Week 2020 was Our nurses play an integral celebrated across the South West from “ 27 April to 1 May 2020. part in the patient experience As you know, our commitment to exceeding across our facilities. We thank the expectations and experience of care them for going above and for our patients is, and will always be, beyond every day to ensure unwavering. our patients’ health care needs Even during current restrictions, the patient experience is still part of our core mission which are met. reinforces this year’s PX Week theme of ‘We are ALL the patient experience’. We are all human, we are all experiencing our lives at a human level first and foremost. As we care for others, we also must care for ourselves and each other. These are messages that were reinforced and celebrated during the week.

Hannah Thorogood (RN) with David Murray Colleen Howlett (EEN) with Sylvia Mitchell

11 The Pulse MarchApril 2020 2020 TELEHEALTH BRINGS JOY TO ONE OF OUR YOUNGEST PATIENTS

Giggles fill the room and a virtual toy competition “She does sometimes get a little distracted, but Julie brings starts when four-year-old Millie Spierenburg logs into her back with all the different toys and games she has in her her virtual speech therapy session. room and Millie turns it into a competition.” For Julie, being able to have the weekly telehealth sessions Since COVID-19 restrictions were implemented about a month with Millie has meant she has been able to continue the ago, South West’s speech therapist from St George, Julie consistency of the sessions with minimal disruption. Rogan, has had to introduce her patients, including Millie, to telehealth. “The sessions keep the family motivated and in touch to keep going with home practise with new games and activities each Millie started with Julie at the start of the year and her mum, week,” Julie said. Janna, said they had already noticed a big difference in her speech. “It is wonderful that we can continue helping our patients during this unprecedented time through telehealth services “We live 80km out of St George in Thallon so every two weeks as we don’t want anyone missing out on healthcare no matter we would take Millie in to see Julie. She was really loving the what the situation is.” appointments but then when circumstances changed, we were a little worried how she would go virtually,” Mrs Spierenburg said. “But she loves it. Julie is wonderful with her and although she may think it is all fun and games there is always a reason behind it helping her with her speech.

1212 SouthSouth West West Hospital Hospital and and Health Health Service Service CARDIAC REHAB HELPING KICK GOALS IN THE COMMUNITY

My name is Carin Thompson and I’m 72 years of Now, after cardiac rehab, I would say my overall health has age and I have been attending Roma’s Cardiac improved. I’m losing weight slowly, I’m feeling stronger and Rehabilitation program. My goal is to see my my mobility has improved. I am now able to put my shoes and socks on without having to use a sock slider. grandson’s 21st birthday; he is currently 7 and I decided to do as much as I can to get fit and I think cardiac rehab was well and truly worth my time. I healthy to be at that birthday. really didn’t think I was going to see sunrise the day after my hospital admission. Now I have more energy walking around Going into my first appointment I was apprehensive thinking the shops, I’m mowing my lawn and am more independent. ‘what is going to happen here?’, but the staff were amazing. The most enjoyable part of cardiac rehab was meeting new They were very helpful in explaining what was going on people and knowing you are not alone! with my heart condition and suggestions for improving my lifestyle to achieve the goal I set out in the beginning. The staff are interested in everybody’s wellbeing. You can see it is not ‘just a job’ to them, they genuinely have your health as their best interest. Carin Thompson The other members of the group are all really great to talk shared why our cardiac to and sociable. Not only social in the exercise sessions, but rehabilitation program is so important to him. also when bumping into them down the street, they all say ‘g’day’ and check in to see how you are going. The social side flows on away from the hospital. Before starting cardiac rehab, I thought my health was good, although I wasn’t quite as flexible as I think I should have been.

WALLY LOVES A ‘YARN’ AGAIN THANKS TO BREE

Wally, 80 years old, loves chatting to people and Bree said Wally’s speech has already become so much having a yarn but when he started developing clearer. dysarthria (slurred speech) it made it hard for people “They are not asking him to repeat himself and he can sit to understand him. down and have a cuppa and a good chat with his mates now.” South West Senior Speech Pathologist Bree Hall-Cronin started working with him and his recreational officer from the Injune Multipurpose Health Service Facility, Donna O’Donohue, so Wally could get back to having a good old yarn. “He was so keen to do some therapy with me to make his speech clearer,” Bree said. “So together with Donna, over five weeks, Wally put in Senior Speech Pathologist Bree so much effort and made excellent progress even during Hall-Cronin chats via COVID-19 by doing telehealth sessions.” Telehealth to patient Wally Laycock with “No matter what situation you are in you can make the best his Recreation Officer out of it and this is exactly what Wally has done.” from Injune Multi-Purpose Health Facility Donna O’Donohue.

13 The Pulse MarchApril 2020 2020 LET’S SEE WHAT THE SWHHS HEALTHY COMMUNITIES TEAM LOVE TO DO

Bryce Brown Rohan Ballon My name is Bryce and I am an Exercise Physiologist. To keep My name is Rohan and I am a Community Nutritionist. To my body and brain fit, I enjoy slacklining as it is a skill which keep myself busy, I train working dogs to work stock on our I find both challenging and rewarding. It is a fun way to farm and to use in competitive sheepdog trials across the strengthen muscles that help with posture and joint stability. state. I have recently started two new pups, bringing our It also requires lots of concentration which keeps the brain dog tally to 10, and have been working hard to harness their active. Now’s a great time to learn a new skill in your spare natural working ability and instincts. time.

If you have a story you’d like to share on what you do to keep busy please email [email protected]

1414 SouthSouth West West Hospital Hospital and and Health Health Service Service Jordan Langford My name is Jordan, I am a Clinical Dietitian and I enjoy craft projects. During the push to stay at home I have decided to make a bee motel and support the native bee population. Bees play an important role in helping to pollinate your garden. By creating a safe place for them to live, you will encourage them to stick around and help your garden flourish. It is also a great activity for bored kids during isolation. Penny Bieber My name is Penny and I am the Manager, Corporate Support Services. I am very lucky to have a horse in my life which is a great health and wellness choice in isolation. As horses are a herd animal and need friends, and because it’s impossible to stop at one; I do have a few in my life! One I ride, others I breed, I own a special breed called the Australian Waler horse, which is a very rare breed of horse used in the WW1. ANZAC Day was celebrated in April and although we were not able to celebrate in the usual way, we can still remember the soldiers, dogs and horses that were lost in isolation and I am lucky enough to have them with me.

Andrew Smith My name is Andrew and I am an Executive Support Officer. I have enjoyed bike riding since I was a child. I think it’s a fun and environmentally friendly means of transport particularly in a town like Roma. It’s also a great way to embed some physical activity into my working days where I am mainly sitting at a desk. I have chosen to use this extra time at home to service my bike and give it a thorough clean. As a father I’m also excited to get my son onto his first bike, but that might be a couple of years away.

15 15 South TheWest Pulse Hospital April and 2020 Health Service STUDENT PLACEMENTS GO VIRTUAL FOR SWHHS

For Healthy Communities Community Nutritionist “Plus seeing the community from a slightly different aspect Rohan Ballon, having student placements in the South (as a healthcare provider) to what I have in the past, has West is one aspect of his job he loves. been a great experience.” She said how wonderful Rohan had been in particular with “I get to share the wonderful work we are doing in the the project to suit the current requirements. South West and they get to see, hear about and meet all the different communities we work with and the importance of “We are currently in the investigation phase of the project. being able to adjust nutrition and information according to Rohan has made the whole thing so seamless. We have what each community looks like. regular online meetings with him in the mornings for progress updates and make plans for the day, and we have “The South West is unique. It is a large area with many utilised online means of communication.” different cultures so for students to come and be a part of this is special. Both Catherine and Marcus have felt like they have been part of the team during the placement and are both excited “However due to the current COVID-19 restrictions our latest about the upcoming presentation to the team on their intake of students has had to do everything virtually.” project. Rohan said the biggest challenge for him having his two Marcus said he has loved reaching and connecting with the students, Marcus Connor and Catherin Dibbs, do their community albeit virtually. placement virtually was that they missed out on living in these communities. “While I am not onsite and I miss some opportunities, speaking with the members from the communities has been “It has been challenging in some ways but we have made the biggest highlight so far.” ways to adapt, and both Marcus and Catherine have still really embraced the South West.” Both said they would love the opportunity to visit the South West and would recommend to other students to definitely Catherine, who had spent time growing up in the South look at doing a placement in the South West. West, said how she had really embraced her placement even though it wasn’t how she had imagined. “I really miss being in Roma itself, being able to work on a project for a community that has been a part of my life since I was a teen has still been great.”

Healthy Communities’ Rohan Ballon catches up with his current student placements via Zoom recently.

1616 SouthSouth West West Hospital Hospital and and Health Health Service Service TWO COMMUNITY CARE STAFF GRADUATE

Completing courses while juggling work and family “It is a really lovely community, and everyone looks out for is always tricky, but when your passion for your job each other and I wouldn’t have it any other way. It is a very takes over it is a lot easier to complete. rewarding and special job. We get to care and help some of our most vulnerable community members who are always so And this was the case for two of the South West’s welcoming and thankful.” Community Care staff members, Kelly White (Roma) and Janice MacCallum (Mitchell). Since Kelly moved to Roma six year’s ago, she hasn’t looked back. And like Janice she loves working in a tight-knit They both recently completed formal qualifications, not community. only for their own benefit but for their best practice goals for their clients and the South West. “Although some days are harder than others, in particular when it is the middle of summer and everyone is Their manager Tania Hennessy said they were both uncomfortable, it still such a fulfilling job,” Kelly said. great assets to the Community Care team and they pride themselves on being the best they can be in their role. “You are always checking in on people who really appreciate you and it is a pleasure to help people who are always so Janice started with the South West four years ago and genuine and thankful. Kelly started six years ago and although they work in different communities, they both agreed how lucky they “Even during the current situation with COVID-19 they are so were to work in the South West. very thankful for our services. We know them and I think this is the big difference between our communities compared For Janice, she was successful in getting the job after with the bigger cities. one of her clients suggested she apply for the role in the Community Care team. “Our clients aren’t just a number. We know them and they know us so it makes it extra special for them to know we are “I used to clean their house and have coffee with them here and really care.” and a number of other community members who are all now my clients,” she said.

Janice MacCallum from Mitchell

Kelly White from Roma

17 17 South TheWest Pulse Hospital April and 2020 Health Service SOUTH WEST WELCOMES NEW EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGIST

SWHHS has recently appointed Exercise Physiologist, Bryce Brown, to help achieve better outcomes for patients at risk of developing cardiovascular disease, those recovering from recent cardiac events, and patients living with pulmonary dysfunctions. The role of an Exercise Physiologist is to improve patient quality of life through education and individualised exercise programs. Bryce recently moved from Brisbane to Roma to pursue his career in cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation after having previously worked in areas of chronic disease management, musculoskeletal and orthopaedic rehabilitation. Bryce has a strong passion for working with the ‘engine rooms’ of the body, the heart and lungs, and providing patients with the knowledge, confidence and functional capacity to live each day to their fullest.

JENNY SAYS FAREWELL TO SOUTH WEST

In April, St George farewelled Child Health Nurse Jenny Blokland after 31 years in the role. Jenny started in the role as a sole practitioner in 1989 in the ‘White House’ (old Theatres) on the St George Hospital grounds. To anyone 35 years and younger, if they grew up in the St George area, there is a good chance that Jenny taught them how to` Slip, Slop, Slap’, `Blow their nose’, `Wash their hands’, `Clean their teeth’, educated them about a healthy diet, looked in their ears and gave them a vaccination. To every parent Jenny encountered, she has been a guiding hand, the encyclopaedia of knowledge and reassurance on anything child health, and in some instances the one constant when things didn’t quite go as planned. With Jenny, nobody waited, concerns were followed up, she was very trusted, she gave her all, every parent was made to feel that their baby/child was her number one priority. Jenny, thank you for making St George home for the past 31 years. Our community and our health service wish you all the best. Sadly, we were unable to give the planned farewell due to our current circumstances, but we look forward to giving Jenny the farewell she deserves down the track.

18 18South WestThe Hospital Pulse March and Health2020 Service INTERNATIONAL WORKERS’ MEMORIAL DAY COMMEMORATED

International Workers’ Memorial Day was commemorated on 28 April 2020. It is a day to remember every worker who has been killed or injured at work.

Everyone – wherever they work – has the right to a safe The global pandemic has brought close attention to this working life. sector in terms of bed numbers and ventilators – but the core of healthcare is the workers who deliver that care. This year, the day was commemorated around the world from our homes as we continue to practice social distancing. The use and supply of personal protective equipment is But, as we know, many workers across the world do not one of the most important priorities for those working on have the ability to work from home and go into workplaces the frontline. The safety of our staff remains SWHHS and that could cause them harm. Queensland Health’s highest priority, and that all staff should be reassured that when you reach for PPE, it is Sadly, many health care workers across the world are injured there for you. or killed at work, including colleagues who have contracted coronavirus whilst caring for the sick and who have unfortunately passed away.

QUALITY CARE FOR PEOPLE WITH MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES

Life can be very difficult for people with mental health issues, especially when they find themselves in a general hospital bed. Such times can feel isolating – waiting for all the processes and assessments and evaluations to take place – and some simple distractions can go a long way to easing stress and anxiety. Our mental health intake / triage clinician, who is based in Roma, responds to all mental health referrals across the South West and covers Roma Hospital in person. Another part of this role has involved developing a ‘care package’ for hospitalised clients who find themselves in need of some simple distractions. These care packages include: • notebooks and writing paper • crosswords and other puzzles • adult colouring-in books and pencils • orange cards with crisis contact details and information on managing stress and anxiety. To date, these care packs have been distributed to clients in Roma, Augathella and Charleville. We look forward to receiving recipients’ feedback with a view to making the care packs part of everyday care and support on the ward.

19 19 South TheWest Pulse Hospital April and 2020 Health Service MATERNITY GOES VIRTUAL FOR COVID-19

Changes to the midwifery model in the South West have been implemented due to the current COVID-19 situation. The current process for antenatal appointments during COVID-19 for expectant mums are that they will have four contact sessions. The midwife will make a call to the expectant mum from her car. This entails prepping and screening questions, followed by a 15-minute face to face appointment to listen to the baby’s heart rate and take blood pressure and measurements of the tummy.

It is important during this time for everyone to know how to keep expectant mums comfortable and supported during the COVID-19 situation.

Midwives know not to be in a rush to complete the 15-minute telephone call (sometime much longer) as it is important that the mum is confident in her pregnancy journey with all health education and options available. We need to ensure the expectant mum is feeling cared for and reassured – particularly in a time that they might be feeling on edge.

Maternity goes virtual for COVID-19

20 20South WestThe Hospital Pulse March and Health2020 Service SURAT GENERAL PRACTICE SUCCESSFULLY RENEWS NATIONAL ACCREDITATION

Surat General Practice has been recognised for its “Our team at Surat works hard to ensure the services commitment to quality and safety with renewed delivered reflect best practice, meet the changing regulatory environment, and place patients at the helm of their accreditation from Australian General Practice healthcare. Accreditation Ltd (AGPAL). “Everyone at the practice plays a valuable role in working to South West Hospital and Health Service Acting Service meet the RACGP Standards. Director Primary Care, Elly Richardson, said the accreditation showed the practice met national standards of care. “Award of accreditation is formal recognition of this work and of our compliance with benchmarked standards to “I would like to congratulate Surat General Practice on improve the quality and safety of our services.” receiving this honour,” she said. Ms Richardson said this was a milestone year for the Surat “National accreditation reflects the hard work and quality of General Practice. care provided at Surat.’’ “As well as renewing its national accreditation, the general Accreditation is achieved through a process of on-site practice soon would be moving into brand new premises assessment and audit where the practice must demonstrate in the new $820,000 Primary Health Care Centre which is satisfactory implementation of the Royal Australian College nearing completion in the next month or so alongside the of General Practitioners Standards for General Practice Surat Multipurpose Health Service,’’ she said. (RACGP). Currently, the practice is located within the MPHS itself. Accreditation must be renewed every three years. Ms Richardson said the new Primary Health Care Centre “The staff have shown tremendous dedication to the task, would provide the general practice with a reception area, which demonstrates their overall commitment to delivering three consultation rooms, a treatment room and staff room. quality healthcare to the Surat community,’’ Ms Richardson said. “Patients, staff and visitors also will benefit from a covered walkway linked to the existing multipurpose health service “The standards include communication and teamwork, and full ramp access from the carparking area, providing accountability and responsibility, information and health safe and easy access to the relocated general practice,’’ record management, delivery of respectful and culturally she said. appropriate care, up-to-date equipment and services, and continuing education and training for staff.

Proud to be accredited: Surat General Practice staff – from left – Dr Geeth Weerasooriya, Practice Nurse Ann-Maree Attwooll and Administration Officer Debra Richardson.

21 21 South TheWest Pulse Hospital April and 2020 Health Service STUDENT ACCOMMODATION IN ROMA GETS THE GREEN LIGHT

Roma’s new $5.95 million health student accommodation precinct is moving ahead and is set to create 15 new jobs in the area. Roma’s new $5.95 million health student accommodation The precinct will be built in Economic Development precinct is moving ahead and is set to create 15 new jobs in Queensland’s Clearview Rise residential estate, near the the area. new Roma Hospital. Construction on the student accommodation, which sets In accordance with our Village Connect principles, the a new benchmark in regional student accommodation accommodation will create a sense of community for health standards in Queensland, will start in August under Woollam students, many of whom will be living away from home for Constructions, who were awarded the tender early April. the first time. The accommodation will feature 20 bedrooms in modern The precinct, once completed, will also generate a positive residential pavilions, communal facilities and recreation and significant impact for the South West. areas, and will help the South West Hospital and Health Service attract and retain staff in the region.

Roma health student accommodation precinct map

2222 SouthSouth West West Hospital Hospital and and Health Health Service Service APRIL #SWSPIRIT AWARD WINNER IS…

Every month selecting one worthy recipient of the The exceptional preparation work and the role modelling #swSpirit is always a difficult task given our amazing you are all doing in relation to social distancing and self- staff and their clear dedication to our values of isolation is a reflection on how well all the communities are coping with the global pandemic. Quality, Compassion, Accountability, Engagement and Adaptability. We are collectively a heightened example in our communities, and our communities take their lead from However, the past two months have seen significant many of us in relation to how seriously they apply the changes in the way we live and work across the South restrictions and measures in place. West as we respond to the global coronavirus pandemic. Therefore, it is appropriate to approach April’s Spirit award Thank you to everyone for making a difference. in a manner that recognises these times and to take a We continue to show our resilience across the South West, moment to reflect and celebrate. having already experienced drought for many years only to There can only be one winner for April – and that is all of us. have floods earlier this year before COVID-19 hit our shores. We are living in extraordinary times and every staff member Stay in touch, stay connected … we will come out the other deserves to be recognised for their tireless dedication side of this together stronger, when the time comes. in continuing to ensure the very best of care for all our Congratulations to each and every one of you for going communities across the South West. No matter what you above and beyond in your daily work to ensure our do or where you are, we all play a vital role in ensuring the communities remain safe. continued health and wellbeing of our communities, while also helping to flatten the curve and keep our communities safe and protected. Even during this challenge, the South West spirit is shining brighter than ever. And that is thanks to all of you. Every single one of the SWHHS values – Quality, Compassion, Accountability, Engagement and Adaptability – has been engraved deeper than ever into our daily routines and collectively we are helping our communities through this unprecedented time. Our shared purpose continues to strengthen all of us. Our staff celebrate at the 2019 Annual Staff Excellence Awards in October.

23 The Pulse MarchApril 2020 2020 NEW ROMA HOSPITAL DEVELOPMENT

COMMISSIONING UPDATE During April work commenced on the preparation of The regular site tours for staff are unfortunately still on operational briefs for all the new functional areas. hold until the COVID-19 restrictions are eased. We will advise when these will recommence. In the interim, if you haven’t These documents will provide useful onboarding tools yet been on a site tour, please email Kirsty Dykes, who will outlining how each service will operate in the new area. keep a register of interested staff. Once we confirm site tours Drafts have been completed and are currently being will recommence, Kirsty will schedule you into a tour and reviewed. advise you accordingly. Work is also progressing to finalise and progress orders for To book a tour please email the remaining equipment items ensuring delivery timelines. [email protected] Lists of transfer equipment items are also being reviewed and confirmed in readiness for tagging, which is scheduled to occur in the coming months.

CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS

Commissioning of services and internal works near completion External works continuing eHealth completed initial ICT works on site

Patient Bays in Emergency

Inpatient Unit Reception

Rehabilitation Courtyard

Birthing Room Courtyards

24 24South WestThe Hospital Pulse March and Health2020 Service