NORTHERN - Northern NSW Local Health District News Issue 3 - 2021 May/June
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Northern NSW
Local Health District News
Issue 3 - 2021 May/June
4 Our hidden heroes of healthcare
10 Profile: Dr Kirsten Small
Stroke service brings specialist
12 treatment closer to home
NORTHERN
THIS ISSUE
Executive update 3
From the Chair 3
Our hidden heroes of healthcare 4
Make way for the new RIS-PACS! 5
Homegrown clinician is top of the class 6
Change is 21 years of helping her community
everywhere!
7
Hospital open day a virtual success 8
They say the only constant in life is change, and
healthcare is certainly a strong example of this concept. We’d like you to meet…
Dr Scott Armstrong
9
In this edition of Northern Exposure there are multiple
stories about how our services, and our individual staff Profile: Dr Kirsten Small 10
members, are continually looking for ways to improve
and change the way we care for patients. Stroke service brings specialist
treatment closer to home
12
From new medical imaging technology that will bring
quicker access to information, to an Aboriginal Health
Falls prevention and COVID-19,
worker finding ways to make it easier for her clients to 13
stay fit, to computer system upgrades, or a new best what’s the connection?
practice maternity care model, there is no end to the
reflection and improvement cycle. Safer steps for every body 13
As you can see from these stories, improvements can COVID-19 case creates an Easter
be small and targeted, or they can be wide-ranging and unlike any other
14
effect thousands of people. Either way, they’re effective.
Review and name change for Suicide
At the end of the day, both staff and patients benefit 15
HealthPathway
from these changes if they make a process easier,
deliver better outcomes, or provide a better experience Prevention program now available
at work or while receiving care. Even though it takes online for children above a healthy 16
time and effort to first get the ball rolling, and then to weight
bring people along with you, that effort is worth it.
I am inspired by these stories, and I hope you are, too. Colourful thanks from Lismore patient 16
Digital Dose – Between the Flags,
Cybersecurity training, Scamwatch
17
What a relief! Recovery outreach has us
in stitches
18
Country music star opens up on
wellbeing and healing
18
Farewell Patrick McDermott 19
Editor Fiona Baker,
Manager Media and Corporate Communications Farewell Darleen Berwick 19
Phone 6620 2141
Email fiona.baker1@health.nsw.gov.au
Northern Exposure is published 8 times a year
by the Northern NSW Local Health District.
We welcome your contributions, suggestions
and feedback. Cover Image: Byron Central Hospital staff, L-R:
Kylie Wilmen, Emma Power, Lee-Anne Collins, Ross
www.facebook.com/northernnswlocalhealthdistrict/ Gulliver, Janine Hennessy and Stephen Felton
Back cover image: Kingscliff
https://twitter.com/NNSWLHD
2 ISSUE 3 - 2021
MAY/JUNE
Executive
seen health care systems collapse myself why, I realised it was driven by
under the strain of coronavirus, but also negative media coverage, rather than the
Update
workforce unavailability as frontline scientific advice. I understand the risk
health workers contract the virus and are and I balanced that against the potential
too unwell to work. benefits to myself and my loved ones,
in the event the unimaginable becomes
In Australia we already have vaccines
reality in our country.
available to all our health staff, which is
an incredibly positive development. But don’t take my word for it, or that of
an influencer or media commentator. If
As with any medication, there are risks
you have questions, please make an
or side effects that are communicated to
appointment to speak with your GP; ask
individuals so they can discuss what’s
about the risk rating of the COVID-19
best for them with experts they trust.
vaccines compared to many other
Often that’s your GP, or it could be your
common medications. Talk to your doctor
local Child and Family Health Nurse,
about your personal situation and about
in the case of recommended childhood
what’s best for you in terms of protecting
immunisations.
yourself from severe illness, or potentially
Wayne Jones - Chief Executive Every person’s decision to vaccinate passing the virus onto someone you love.
is a personal one, which is why it’s
You can also read the scientific advice
so important that our decisions are
that’s readily available, either via the
Since the COVID-19 vaccination rollout considered, and based on science and
links on our intranet or from other
began, we’ve seen more than 211,000 medical advice.
reputable sources, or submit a question
doses administered by NSW Health, and I’ve made my own decision, weighing to NNSWLHD-staffquestions-COVID19@
a great proportion of our staff are among up the risks and choosing to receive the health.nsw.gov.au.
these figures. AstraZeneca vaccine in the last week of
For me, I didn’t want to wait and see what
April.
Meanwhile, the loss of life we are seeing happens with future outbreaks before
in some countries as a result of the I had felt some apprehension about deciding to take the best path to protection
pandemic is just staggering. We have receiving this shot, but when I asked that’s available to me now.
From the
with our health professionals
and support staff to meet
Chair
the challenges that climate
change presents. We are also
committed to reducing the
environmental impact of our
Brian Pezzutti - Board Chair organisation, primarily through
reducing our carbon emissions.
This includes moving from
We often think about climate change traditional forms of energy
as an environmental problem. However production, where possible,
there is growing concern among health and making more efficient
experts about the impact of climate and sustainable use of our
change on people’s health and the health The NNSWLHD Board is keen to play resources.
system. a role in addressing this issue, and
last year we established a Climate One of the key steps in this work is to
The World Health Organisation says
Sustainability and Healthcare Working measure our carbon emissions so we can
climate change is the greatest threat to
Group to focus on a better understanding begin to reduce them.
global health in the 21st century.
of the health impacts of climate change
We know from other health services that
The Royal Australian College of General and to start work on an action plan for our
have already measured their carbon
Practitioners cites climate change District.
footprint, that 70-80 per cent of emissions
as a key public health issue and has
Under the leadership of Board member, are related to electricity consumption.
committed to “mitigation and adaptation
Peter Carter, and Matt Long (Director That will be one obvious area of focus
strategies”.
Corporate Services), the working group as we look for ways to reduce our
Projected changes in Australia’s climate has developed a position statement emissions.
that affect health include more frequent which has been endorsed by the Board
We don’t have all the solutions and we
and intense natural disasters such as and will guide our work on this important
have only just started this work, but
heatwaves, drought, bushfires and floods. issue:
we believe it is vital that we involve
As we know all too well from our own The Northern NSW Local NNSWLHD staff, our partners, and
region’s experiences, these events Health District is committed to the community in helping us develop a
contribute to increased adverse health understanding the impact of longer-term plan for sustainability. I look
outcomes, mortality, trauma and long climate change on the health forward to seeing the changes we’re able
term mental health impacts. of our population and working to make.
ISSUE 3 - 2021
MAY/JUNE 3
Our hidden Corporate and support services employees
often remain in the shadows when we think
heroes of about healthcare, but the pandemic has
healthcare highlighted their important contributions to
keeping us safe.
By Louise Tingey,
Lismore Business Manager
When news of COVID-19 was first
emerging, healthcare advice centred
around testing, treating patients and
keeping the public informed of positive
cases. Vision of gowned-up and brave
clinicians continuously streamed on news
bulletins across every media platform.
But not widely discussed were the tasks
non-clinical workers undertook in their
own efforts to protect the lives of the
community and clinicians on the frontline.
Rapid data sharing, procurement
of personal protective equipment,
developing accounting solutions and
building pop-up clinics took place at
record speed to ensure clinicians were in
the safest position to respond.
Testing clinics a key part of the puzzle
To date, more than 5.6 million COVID-19
tests have been done in NSW, and
establishing testing clinics has proven Top, Lismore-based staff working behind the scenes. L-R: Louise Tingey – Lismore Base Hospital Business
to be vital in promoting early detection Manager, Sally Harlen - Activity Based Management Officer, Amy Smith - Assistant District Management
of community acquired transmissions. Accountant, Stuart Rollans - Corporate Services Manager, Trish Spillane - Clinical Performance and Redesign
Unit Manager, Rashinka Perera - Systems Administrator, Nadine Smith - Health Information Manager, Kevin Allen
Throughout the state, clinics have - Senior Network Administrator, Mitchell Madigan - Operations Analyst, Matthew Woods - Systems Administrator
taken on a variety of unusual locations Unified Communication
including drive-throughs, showgrounds,
bowling clubs, churches and shopping Responding to the need for a new clinic platforms to record patient activity,
centres. But scoping out and securing requires expertise and dedication from a pathology results and medical notes for
these locations is just the beginning. team of corporate and support services to coding. Software development enhances
While public health responses and ensure each building is transformed with data quality that is crucial for contact
services can often take months to design the potential to see hundreds of patients tracing and funding activities. Meanwhile,
and plan, the response to COVID-19 has a day. anticipating demand for stock, logistics,
been at warp speed; clinics are often secure storage and waste management
Work starts behind the scenes
rapidly established within hours or days requires negotiation amongst stores,
of newly identified cases. Once the location is found, the couriers, cleaners and procurement
maintenance teams commence work managers.
on constructing signage, fencing and
Time is ticking
petitions to guide patient flow. Whilst
some basic and consistent design Suddenly, it’s only hours until the clinic
principles exist, elements such as traffic will open to the public, and by this point,
flow, wayfinding and protection from the the corporate and support services
weather can change with each location. are as much invested in being part of
the frontline as clinicians – there is no
Inside, information technology
allowable delay in providing quality
technicians work to install computers,
service delivery and patient care.
medical label printers and phones. More
complex than just plugging in a device, Amongst normal daily maintenance,
this usually requires fitting additional data reporting and data reviews, the staff
points, testing WI-FI connectivity and behind the scenes are always close by
Above, Byron-based staff. L-R: Janine Hennessy –
DDON, Lee-Anne Collins - Leading Hand Domestic routing network configuration. to receive and action feedback from
Services, Emma Power - A/Executive CSO, Stephen clinicians, patients and the community.
Felton – Tradesperson, Kylie Wilmen - Executive Working remotely during this time,
Officer/DON and Ross Gulliver - Domestic Services software application specialists create
4 ISSUE 3 - 2021
MAY/JUNE
L-R: Roslyn Edmonds – MNC & NNSW Project Support Officer; Teresa Tindill – MNC & NNSW Change Manager; Sadiya Askar - eHealth Program Support Officer; Etienne
Mortier - SECTRA; Travis Bottomley - eHealth System Implementer; Jonathan Behrens - eHealth Program Manager; Tonia Nuttall - SECTRA; Leith Vaughan – MNC & NNSW
Lead Implementer; Geir Teodorsen - SECTRA; Paul Green - Medical Imaging Manager Richmond Network, NNSWLHD.
Make way for the new RIS-PACS!
A welcome change is coming, with a new
information and communication solution for medical
imaging departments being rolled out this year.
The Radiology Information System and The current GE Centricity RIS-PACS The new RIS-PACS will be introduced at:
Picture Archiving and Communication system is at end of life and will be
System, or RIS-PACS, is an electronic replaced with a new solution comprised of • The Tweed Hospital
solution used by Medical Imaging Kestral RIS and SECTRA PACS. • Murwillumbah District Hospital
departments to manage their services. • Byron Central Hospital
Medical Imaging departments will see the
Northern NSW Local Health District • Lismore Base Hospital
biggest change with new workflows and
(NNSWLHD) is in the process of Ballina District Hospital
functionality, while clinicians who order •
introducing a new RIS-PACS which will
and view images will experience better • Casino and District Hospital
provide enhanced diagnostic services,
processes thanks to the new solution. • Kyogle Memorial Hospital
with easy and quick access to images and
results, allowing clinicians to make timely When is the system changing? • Bonalbo District Hospital
decisions regarding patient care. • Grafton Base Hospital
The project is aiming to commence
• Maclean District Hospital
The new, state-of-the art system will mean a staggered Go Live period from late
Medical Imaging orders, examinations September, running through to November The eHealth NSW RIS-PACS Program
and results can be viewed and sent more 2021, with implementation planned for is working in partnership with the NNSW
easily to other clinical systems such as 10 sites within NNSWLHD and another and MNC LHD Project team and other
the electronic medical record (EMR), 7 sites in Mid North Coast Local Health organisations across NSW Health to
patient administration system (PAS) and District. implement the new system.
enterprise imaging repository (EIR).
The Project team have begun
engagement with key stakeholders,
visiting hospital sites during late 2020
and early 2021. The system is currently
being configured and tested, to ensure it
meets the business needs of the LHDs
and delivers the intended benefits of the
Program.
More details around how this change
may affect you and your departments will
be communicated in the coming months.
If you would like more information or
have any questions, please email the
RIS-PACS Project team on
Teresa.tindill@health.nsw.gov.au or
submit a question using the QR code. We
are also establishing an intranet page,
A view of a reporting workstation with the new Medical Imaging SECTRA PACS reporting system. and will provide details of that soon.
ISSUE 3 - 2021
MAY/JUNE 5
HOME-
GROWN
CLINICIAN
IS TOP
OF THE
CLASS
“I have always felt
that there is a team
of people around
me who want to see
me do my best.”
Tweed-trained Dr Meg Wilson has won the coveted
Buchanan Prize for achieving the highest score in
this year’s Emergency Fellowship Clinical Exam.
The two-day clinical exam is the final with the Westpac Life-Saver Rescue Murwillumbah Hospitals said the
part of the Australasian College for Helicopter. team were extremely proud of Meg’s
Emergency Medicine (ACEM) training achievements.
After completing a stint at Gold Coast
program to become a specialist
University Hospital in Paediatric ED and “Having been with us since an
Emergency Physician or FACEM.
Paediatric Critical Care, Meg returned to intern we always knew she was
Meg completed her training at The Tweed The Tweed Emergency Department in a gifted clinician,” Dr Davies
Hospital Emergency Department where 2020. said.
she commenced in 2014 as an Intern.
“One of the biggest drawcards “We are blessed to have so
“Tweed Hospital was extremely for me to work here in many incredibly talented
welcoming to me as an intern,” NNSWLHD was, very early in doctors caring for our
Meg said. my career, finding mentors community. Meg is our second
who I wanted to aspire to be Fellowship prize winner in as
“I have always felt that there like. I tried to model myself off many years.”
is a team of people around them,” Meg said.
me who want to see me do my Meg is hoping to secure employment as
best.” “These doctors in Emergency a FACEM within the District.
Medicine made a profound
Meg grew up in Inverell and knew that impression on me as a junior “Emergency Medicine is the
she wanted to work in a regional setting. doctor. They directed and best! You don’t know what is
encouraged me to do things going to happen on any day.
“I realised very quickly that I
wanted to go into Emergency that are fulfilling for me both Some days are bad days, but
professionally and personally. not all days.
Medicine and so in 2016 I
joined ACEM and worked “You are never alone in the
“They have taught me not
towards my initial Primary ED. We have a very good
only about the intricacies
Exam.” collegial relationship with each
of Emergency Medicine, but
of the importance of patient other, and I have never felt
In 2018 Meg left to get experience
care, with a focus on holistic more accepted than I do in the
working elsewhere, always with the
Emergency care.” Emergency Department.”
intention of returning to this area having
gathered new skills. She worked in Congratulations on such an impressive
Dr Rob Davies, Director of Emergency
Townsville Hospital, Lismore Base achievement Dr Meg Wilson!
Medicine for Tweed, Byron and
Hospital, and as a Retrieval Registrar
6 ISSUE 3 - 2021
MAY/JUNE
21 years of
For the past eight years, Ronella has been
involved in the Knockout Challenge, a
helping her
healthy weight loss program funded by the
Ministry of Health.
community “The Tweed team is called the
‘Tweed Goorie Go Getters’.
All Aboriginal communities
Ronella Mulheran’s in NSW are invited to form a
team and compete against each
role as an Aboriginal other. The team with the largest
Health Worker is one of percentage of weight loss wins.
health promotion and We won third place in 2018 and
received a $5,000 prize.”
collaboration with the
The Knockout Challenge has grown from
Aboriginal community. its humble start in a rented hall in South
Tweed once a week providing cooking
Bundjalung woman, Ronella Mulheran has classes, exercise and education, to
been an Aboriginal Health Worker at The three sessions a week with 62 members
Tweed Hospital for 21 years. currently attending. “The team here at Tweed
“I started in 1999 in the old Aboriginal Health have formed
As part of her role helping local people good friendships, we see each
Community Health building, one get healthy and stay healthy, Ronella
day a week,” Ronella said. other five days a week and all
approached local gyms to ask them to knew each other growing up.”
Ronella’s main focus is on delivering the run specific classes for the indigenous
Healthy Lifestyle Program which includes community. Ronella is extremely grateful to Aboriginal
exercise, healthy eating and health Health Management for their support in
Knockout Challenge members now
education. She also supports clients delivering and growing these essential
have access to three sessions a week
who are on the six-week Quit Smoking programs.
with a personal trainer, education, guest
Program, helping them with a brief weekly speakers who talk about chronic diseases “Without the support of
intervention and planning for how they will and nutrition, and free access to the gym management funding the
stay smoke-free the following week. seven days a week. programs we run, we wouldn’t
“Ours is the only QUIT group be able to support the
“The growth of the Knockout
program in NSW that gives free Aboriginal community the way
Challenge program is great,
Nicotine Replacement Therapy. we do.”
but I don’t have just one career
We help clients with behaviour highlight as I just love my job – In the future Ronella aims to develop
change and offer ongoing I have a passion for helping my specific youth-tailored programs with focus
support after the six week community,” Ronella said. groups to address suicide prevention,
program is finished,” Ronella
quitting smoking and healthy living.
said.
ISSUE 3 - 2021
MAY/JUNE 7
Hospital open day a
“We also held a live panel
session, with members of the
virtual success
project team responding to
questions from community
members, on topics such as
local employment, University
The new Tweed Valley Hospital site came to life for partnerships, staff education
facilities, our consultation with
locals at a virtual Open Day on Wednesday 24 March. the local Aboriginal community
and the impacts of COVID-19 on
In a first for the project and Health the hospital site; however the hospital design.”
Infrastructure NSW, the Tweed Valley due to COVID-19 restrictions,
Hospital project reimagined the traditional our team has worked hard to The online platform proved a huge hit,
community open day, presenting bring everyone along on the with staff and members of the community
an online event to engage the local journey in the virtual world,” enjoying the flexibility of being able to
community through a range of interactive Project Director for Health access the materials at a time and place
materials. Infrastructure, Jackie Hawkins that suited them. There were almost 800
said. visits to the portal in the first two days,
The Open Day showcased the progress and the virtual site tour video was viewed
of the new hospital and addressed “We created a virtual site tour more than 450 times.
questions from the community through a experience for staff and the
live Q&A panel session, a virtual site tour You can still access the videos and
community to take a ‘walk’
video, site flyover, videos sharing ‘A Day information from the open day on the
around the site, hosted by
In the Life’ of project team members, and project website, under the ‘Get Involved’
Senior Executives from the
other new publications. tab.
Northern NSW Local Health
“We would have loved to hold District, Health Infrastructure For more information about the Tweed
this event in person out on and Lendlease.” Valley Hospital project, please visit
tweedvalleyhospital.health.nsw.gov.au
Give life.
Give blood.
Northern NSW Local Health
District is taking part in the
Health Services Blood Drive.
Donate at the Lismore Blood Donor Centre or
at the ‘pop ups’ in Tweed Heads, Murwillumbah, Join our Lifeblood Team and get involved at
Ballina, Byron Bay, Casino, Kyogle and Yamba. https://app.donateblood.com.au/FbBy
8 ISSUE 3 - 2021
MAY/JUNE
WE’D LIKE
YOU TO
MEET…
DR SCOTT
ARMSTRONG
Oral and Maxillofacial
surgeon, Dr Scott
Armstrong joined
Lismore Base Hospital
as a Specialist in
December 2020.
Dual-qualified in both Medicine (2007) and I have a special and sleep
and Dentistry (2013) from the University interest in these apnoea surgery,
of Queensland, Dr Armstrong has taken fields,” Dr Armstrong oral pathology,
a long road to bring his unique skills to said. temporomandibular joint
Northern NSW. surgery, salivary gland
Dr Armstrong had previously surgery, facial skin cancer,
Dr Armstrong then went on to complete a worked in Northern NSW in a and dento-alveolar and
Dental degree, which allowed him to gain locum consultant role, and is implant surgery.
entry into Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery thrilled to be back on familiar
training, a highly specialised field. turf. Dr Armstrong holds a regular
public outpatient clinic at
After four years of specialist training, “My wife Shreya and I Lismore Base Hospital for
Dr Armstrong spent a further year as were drawn to the strong all general Maxillofacial
a fellow at the Gold Coast University community atmosphere and surgical conditions including
Hospital working in Head and amazing lifestyle on offer in facial trauma. He also
Neck Oncology, being awarded the the Northern Rivers region, offers consultant Oral
FRACDS(OMS) and gaining specialist and we chose to relocate Surgery services at Ballina
registration in 2019. to the area permanently on Community Dental Clinic
Dr Armstrong and his wife Shreya our return to Australia,” Dr for patients eligible for
relocated briefly to the UK, where he Armstrong said. public oral health care.
completed a 12-month facial deformity
“I am committed to Maxillofacial referrals can
fellowship at St George’s Hospital in
establishing a comprehensive be directed to Lismore
London, building further on the strong
Oral and Maxillofacial Base Hospital Specialist
foundation of his speciality area.
Surgery service for our local Outpatients Clinic on phone
“I was really fortunate to be community.” 6620 7301 or fax 6620
trained and mentored by some 7307. Oral Surgery referrals
of Europe’s leading deformity, Dr Armstrong has extensive experience for public-eligible patients
rhinoplasty and aesthetic in the management and reconstruction of should be directed to a local
facial reconstructive surgeons, facial trauma, as well as facial deformity, public oral health clinic on
orthognathic (jaw repositioning) 1300 651 625.
ISSUE 3 - 2021
MAY/JUNE 9
PROFILE DR
KIRSTEN
SMALL
As the first Director, Obstetrics and Gynaecology
for the Clarence Health Service, Dr Kirsten Small is
working to ensure women have a smooth journey
through pregnancy, birth and postnatal care.
For Dr Kirsten Small, her new role as through their pregnancy, The first of its kind in Australia, the course
Director, Obstetrics and Gynaecology in their birth, and the postnatal has become a very popular midwifery
the beautiful Clarence Valley is a chance period,” Dr Small said. prescribing course, and there are now
to combine the theory and hands on several hundred midwives around
aspects of her long medical career. “This is widely recognised as Australia who have gained the authority
the safest model of maternity to write prescriptions.
“I came to the Clarence Valley care.
because this role offered me “I continue to be interested in
the opportunity to use what “I plan to strengthen ties with finding ways to improve birth
I have learned from both community organisations and outcomes for women and their
my clinical practice and my other maternity services in babies,” Dr Small said.
academic practice and apply the network so that women’s
it to a health service providing journey through their care is Dr Small is also a star of the small
care for a community with as smooth as possible.” screen, having appeared in the widely
significant challenges,” Dr acclaimed documentary, Birth Time,
Small said. Dr Small has a special interest in which looks at some of the challenges
Academia, becoming a Lecturer at faced by Australia’s maternity system and
“I was ready for something Griffith University School of Nursing what might be done to improve birth care.
new and rewarding, and so and Midwifery in 2012, and has recently The documentary is helping to bring
far the job has lived up to gained her third research degree, Doctor issues that are often not discussed to the
expectations!” of Philosophy. awareness of a wider audience.
Dr Small became a Fellow of the Royal The doctoral research looked at the Dr Small is still pursuing research
Australian and New Zealand College of impact of fetal monitoring systems on interests, and in her down time enjoys
Obstetrics and Gynaecology in 2001, professional relationships between sewing and spending time in the garden.
after completing her medical training midwives and obstetricians. The
With her children now having left
at the University of Queensland. She research showed how cultural beliefs that
home, living regionally also has other
managed Private Practice with a Hospital undermine inter-professional practice
unforeseen benefits for a doctor on call.
appointment and was the Medical were embedded within hospital policy
Director of a Fertility Solutions Clinic on documents and professional guidelines, “I have moved into a place
the Sunshine Coast for several years. and how that reinforced conflict between within easy walking distance
obstetricians and midwives. of the hospital, great for those
“My vision for this new role is late night trips into birth
to develop a midwifery group During her eight years in academia,
suite!”
practice model so that women Dr Small wrote and taught a course to
can have their own midwife enable qualified midwives to be able to Explore: https://www.birthtime.world/
prescribe medications.
10 ISSUE 3 - 2021
MAY/JUNEISSUE 3 - 2021 MAY/JUNE 11
L-R: Dr Will Davies ED Director, Andrew White ICU Director, Health Minister Brad Hazzard, Member for Clarence Chris Gulaptis, Suskia Travis ED NUM, Skye Russell
Telestroke Implementation Coordinator ACI, Marianne Taylor Stroke Coordinator and Luke Morrall eHealth.
Stroke service brings specialist
treatment closer to home
Clarence Valley stroke patients now have 24-hour access to an innovative
telehealth service, with the NSW Telestroke Service going live at Grafton Base
Hospital on 8th April.
The NSW Telestroke Service offers people The new Telestroke service at Grafton The service will go live at The Tweed
living in regional and rural areas increased Base Hospital means patients will benefit Hospital in May, and is already live at
access to life-saving stroke diagnosis and from specialist stroke assessments closer Lismore Base Hospital.
treatment by connecting local doctors to home, reducing the time between the
Learning to recognise the signs of stroke,
to specialist stroke physicians via video onset of a stroke and a potentially life-
getting to hospital quickly and calling
consultation. saving intervention.
triple zero (000) straight away are critical.
“This crucial service will “Stroke is a time critical
provide Clarence Valley medical emergency that can
residents with rapid diagnosis kill up to 1.9 million brain cells The F.A.S.T. test is a simple
and treatment from the state’s per minute,” Dr Davies said. way to remember the signs of
expert clinicians,” Clarence stroke:
Health Service Director of “Every minute counts, so
Emergency, Dr Will Davies, the faster we can provide • Face:
said. specialist advice and Check their face. Has their
interventions, the better mouth drooped?
“Telestroke helps local doctors patient outcomes will be.” • Arms:
to decide the most appropriate Can they lift both arms?
treatment option for each Every year, around 19,000 residents in • Speech:
patient which may include NSW have a stroke. More than a third Is their speech slurred? Do they
urgent treatment at their of people hospitalised for stroke in NSW understand you?
hospital to dissolve a clot or are from regional, remote or rural areas. • Time is critical:
urgent transfer to a specialised Implementation of the NSW Telestroke If you see any of these signs call
stroke centre for more complex Service is a collaboration between the triple zero (000) straight away.
treatment.” Prince of Wales Hospital, eHealth NSW,
Agency for Clinical Innovation and the Watch NSW Telestroke Service
Ministry of Health. https://vimeo.com/295104771
12 ISSUE 3 - 2021
MAY/JUNEFalls prevention and COVID-19,
what’s the connection?
Whilst self-isolation and movement restrictions have
Referrals are now open for Term
been necessary measures to prevent the spread of 3, starting in July 2021 (Term 2 is
the virus, staying at home can lead to many health full), and classes are scheduled
for:
problems that are associated with falls in older adults.
• Banora Point/Tweed Heads
Recent research has shown that the to reintroduce Stepping On groups in • Ballina
isolation of COVID-19 has increased the NNSWLHD. • Yamba/Maclean
risk of falls in older adults. • Ocean Shores/Mullumbimby
Stepping On returns
“… isolation might be an New locations will be added,
Stepping On is a free seven-week depending on the referrals
important measure to protect
program for people aged 65 years and received.
against COVID-19 infections.
over which combines gentle strength
However, this may be a
and balance exercises with educational To refer your clients, please
‘two edged sword’. As we
sessions. It is designed to build call/email/fax the Stepping On
have known well before the
knowledge, strength and confidence to Coordinator:
pandemic, there are negative
prevent falls.
consequences of social Liz.graham@Health.nsw.gov.au,
isolation for older people.” Who should you refer? phone (02) 6620 2553 or
Pelicionia, P. and Lord, S. Braz fax (02) 6674 9599.
Stepping on is suitable for patients/clients
J Phys Ther. 2020
who are:
For example, a lack of exposure to • 65 years or older (Aboriginal people 45
sunshine can lead to Vitamin D deficiency years and older can be referred)
in older people, which can result in more
• Have had a fall in the past year or have
severe injury after a fall. Not leaving
a fear of falling
the home as often can also lead to
deconditioning, resulting in balance and • Independent with or without a walking
mobility problems. stick indoors
• Cognitively intact
There are also strong links between
• Do not have a progressive neurological
social isolation, fear of falling and poor
condition.
motivation in older adults. For these
reasons, we are very pleased to be able
Safer steps for every body
During April Falls Month, staff took the opportunity
to spread the word about what we can do to
mobilise safely to help reduce the risk of falls
among people older than 65 years.
L-R: Melissa Ingram, Allison Wallis, Nicola Scanlan,
Lea McAllister, Joel Organ, Crystal Griffiths (kneeling)
This year’s campaign, Safe Activity for them know every move counts with patient Terrance Walsh at Lismore Base Hospital.
Everybody focused on encouraging to help maintain physical
patients to get moving again by function,” Allison said.
embracing balance and strength
From quizzes, to ukuleles, to afternoon
exercises and reconnecting with “As well as moving, we
teas, and even a Where’s Wally-inspired
their community, after leading a more highlight the importance of
poster to help staff locate the falls risks
sedentary and isolated lifestyle during the nutrition and staying connected
in a patient’s room, the green-clad Falls
COVID-19 pandemic. with loved ones or groups, to
keep active and healthy. crew had it covered!
Allison Wallis, Clinical Nurse Consultant
If you want to know more about falls
for Inpatient Falls Prevention and “Some patients we spoke prevention, call Allison Wallis on 0448
Management for NNSWLHD led a team with were unaware what their 310 007 or email
of people raising awareness at sites individual falls risks were, Allison.wallis@health.nsw.gov.au
throughout the region. so it was great to be able to
provide them with education on
“It’s all about getting people
how they can stay safe when
up and moving, and letting
moving.”
ISSUE 3 - 2021
MAY/JUNE 13COVID-19 case creates an
Easter unlike any other
In the lead up to the Easter long weekend, local residents and tourists in Northern
NSW were on high alert after a cluster of COVID-19 cases just over the border.
Left, Sydney nurses arriving at Ballina Gateway airport. L-R: Rhondda Hartley, Thomas Edwards, Rebekah Elliott, Cathy Diep and Mahesh Adhikari.
Right, Byron Central Hospital Fever Clinic manager, Lynette Black
By the time a locally-acquired case day, which took a significant amount of and in different locations.
COVID-19 in Byron Bay was announced organisation and rostering. We are incredibly proud and
on 31 March, our first in 248 days, health thankful for all your hard work
“The clinic staff are amazing
authorities and local organisations and dedication.”
as they adapt to the constant
were already in full swing to ensure the
changes in demand, including
community could celebrate a safe, albeit Reinforcements from the big smoke
keeping up with new contact
subdued, Easter break. As Good Friday arrived, we welcomed
tracing locations” Ms Weir said.
Over the course of 36 hours in the week six nurses from Sydney to bolster our
prior to Easter, health staff and private Our Public Health team, an essential part local workforce. These staff worked
pathology providers established five new of the emergency management response, in the COVID-19 testing clinics in
testing clinics to process the thousands was boosted by the help of staff who had Tweed, Lismore and Byron Bay, in the
of people coming forward for testing. been trained in contact tracing and follow- Emergency Department in Byron Central
up of cases at the start of the pandemic. Hospital, and on the wards at Lismore
Our Aboriginal Medical Service partners Environmental health staff also worked Base Hospital.
provided a mobile pop up clinic at the with councils, accommodation providers,
Byron Bay Surf Club, which could easily “I have felt valued as a staff
government agencies and the LHD
be moved to new locations when needed. throughout the busy Easter break to
member in your team during
the Easter period and greatly
“The effort and coordination of health staff support our communities.
appreciate your team’s
to get so many clinics up and running “With each adjustment of hospitality,” Nurse Cathy Diep
in such a short time was outstanding,” the public health advice, our said.
Lynne Weir, Director Clinical Operations, health workforce needs to
NNSWLHD, said. adapt and absorb the new Nurse, Thomas Edwards echoed Cathy’s
requirements, and that’s not sentiments.
“From our nursing and medical
staff overseeing the clinical an easy task when you’re more “My time at Lismore Base
aspect, to our cleaning staff than 12 months into an ongoing Hospital was fantastic. I loved
who stepped up and took on pandemic,” Ms Weir said. every minute of it,” Thomas
extra shifts to make sure these said.
“I also need to make special
facilities were spotless and
mention of our own security “The staff on E10 were
hygienic, everyone just pulled
and cleaning staff who worked absolutely amazing. Honestly, I
together to make it happen.”
tirelessly to support the clinical couldn’t have asked for a better
The four hospital fever clinics opened efforts, including working at placement for the week I was
their doors for extended hours each short notice on public holidays there.”
14 ISSUE 3 - 2021
MAY/JUNEReview and name change for
Suicide HealthPathway
Suicide is a prominent public health concern. On
average, seven men and two women end their own
lives in Australia every day.
In 2019 there was a six percent increase The Information section provides a For a list of all localised pathways visit
in suicides compared to 2018, and it dropdown ‘for health professionals’ and the Mid and North Coast Localised
was the most common cause of death ‘for patients’ and contains useful links to Pathways:
for young people aged 15-24 years and website resources and printable PDFs.
Username: manchealth
adults aged 25-44. For every death by
Help to keep safe Password: conn3ct3d
suicide, there are around six people
experiencing intense grief, which may For ongoing management, you will find If you or anyone you know
continue for many years. a suggestion to prepare a ‘Keep Me needs help:
Safe Plan’ or a Beyond Now Safety Plan
Earlier this year, the Suicide Risk Lifeline 13 11 14
for your patient, and this can also be
HealthPathway underwent a three-yearly Kids Helpline 1800 551 800
completed with the patient and carer. The
review and was re-named to Suicide
individualised care plans provide a space Beyond Blue 1300 224 636
Ideation or Intent.
to list the patient’s name, contact details,
Headspace 1800 650 890
The pathway provides clinicians with best support people, strategies to help the
practice guidelines on the assessment of patient feel better and contains a list of
a patient at risk of suicide and a ‘keep me emergency numbers and websites. The
safe’ plan. patient and their carer can keep a copy of
the plan, so it’s close by in a time of need.
In Assessment no. 1, we’ve added a
table that includes examples of the most
Important priorities
appropriate language to be used when
talking about suicide with patients. The The most important priorities are to
referral section contains all the local engage the patient, provide hope,
referral information ensuring at-risk develop a crisis plan, bolster social
patients can be quickly referred on to the supports, and restrict access to lethal
appropriate services. means.
Phone fleet
The phone replacement process involved
sending over 2000 text messages to
gets a boost
mobile numbers inviting staff to reply if
they wanted a new phone.
Those who replied ‘Yes’, received a new
phone within a week, thanks to the quick
In February this year, work of IT & T Trainee, Zari Maunder.
Northern NSW Local Once received, a new SIM card was
Health District began activated with the existing number, and
users received instructions on how to set
working with Telstra up the new phone. Zari called Telstra on
to replace old mobile the staff member’s behalf to activate the
new SIM card, and also provided help
phones at no cost to with setting up the new phones.
the organisation, using
To date, 220 new mobile phones are in
available account use, and 60 staff have confirmed they’re
credits. happy with their current phone.
There were 323 mobile numbers which
did not reply. If these numbers have not
been used in the last six months, they
may be disconnected.
This project has been great experience
for Zari, who is also doing her TAFE
Certificate III in Business Administration.
Thanks Zari, for all your hard work and
IT&T Trainee Zari Maunder attention to detail!
ISSUE 3 - 2021
MAY/JUNE 15Prevention program now available online for
children above a healthy weight
The successful Go4Fun (>85th BMI percentile for age and sex).
Evaluation of the Go4Fun program Parents or carers must be available to
program is now available found significant improvements in: attend each session, too.
online, opening it up to • Weight and body composition To refer multiple patients at one time, use
families across our region. • Nutrition related behaviours this bulk registration form. Families will be
• Physical activity behaviours contacted individually by the registration
team to identify the most suitable program.
• Cardiovascular fitness
• Self-esteem Families can also refer directly by visiting
go4fun.com.au/register or by calling
1800 780 900.
Go4Fun Online is a 10 week program
that provides children and their family Go4Fun module for health
with personalised phone, SMS and professionals
email support, an easy to follow set of Assessing a child’s growth will help
online modules, connection to an online determine any support needed for a
community and a report that summarises family.
the changes made during the program.
Referring eligible children to Go4Fun can
Your role as a health professional help support families achieve a healthier
Go4Fun Online bridges the gap for
children aged 7-13 years who are above Many parents don’t know when their child lifestyle. This 12-15 minute module
a healthy weight, and their families, who is above a healthy weight. That’s why a outlines:
cannot attend a face to face program. health professional’s role is vital, as they • how the Go4Fun program works
can screen for, and address, a child’s • the benefits of referring, and
“Go4Fun Online is taught in a weight status as part of normal growth
kid friendly way. The benefits • how to incorporate a referral as part of
assessments. routine care.
are that the kids are out
moving more and it’s actually If you’re a health professional, you can
helped me, I’ve lost 6 kilos,” refer families to any version of Go4Fun
Tracy, parent. (Online, face to face or Aboriginal You can complete the Go4Fun
Go4Fun) by completing this online referral module on My Health Learning
Childhood obesity is one of the most form. Our registration team will do the (HETI).
important public health issues facing work for you and find the most suitable
Australia, with approximately one quarter program for your patient, based on the Course code: 290520953
of children and adolescents being information you provide and what is If you have any questions regarding
overweight or obese. Children who are available. Go4Fun, please contact the Go4Fun
overweight are more likely to remain
To be eligible for Go4Fun, children should Coordinator, Rachel Adam at
overweight or obese into adulthood,
be between 7 and 13 years of age and Rachel.Adam@health.nsw.gov.au
increasing the risk of non-communicable
disease and premature death. classed as being ‘above a healthy weight’
Colourful
I have not had any art lessons therefore
I have no limitations except for my sight
thanks from
impairment and my imagination.
At the end of last year I had an accident
Lismore and was taken to Lismore Base Hospital.
While in there it was arranged for my
patient further treatment at the Fracture Clinic at
Lismore Base.
I am pleased to show my appreciation of
the real care and professional treatment I
Patient Jeff Blaikie Nola and Jeff Blaikie with clinic manager Kathy Hillier
am receiving at the Clinic.
created a beautiful
I am a retired shipwright and now I Now that my injury has improved greatly,
artwork to thank volunteer at the Ballina Navel and I am receiving treatment from the
the Lismore Base Maritime Museum. Community Nurses – it, too, is very good,
with fortnightly visits to the Lismore Base
Hospital Specialist I started painting about 12 months ago
Fracture Clinic.
after enjoying painting the background on
Outpatient Clinic. a diorama I had made for the Museum. I thank you. Jeff Blaikie
16 ISSUE 3 - 2021
MAY/JUNEBetween the Flags upgrade – DIGITAL DOSE
Coming June 2021
Between the Flags (BTF) Version 4 will increase usability in Maternity and Special Care Nursery Go-
response to issues raised by staff. Live dates are staggered to give staff in
Version 4 upgrade has been In addition, BTF will now include these units extra support:
developed to respond to maternity and newborn patients.
• Tweed - 1 June
growing needs to improve Clinical staff who currently use BTF • Lismore - 16 June
will receive updates as well as online • Grafton - 22 June
the management of a training in the lead up to go live.
deteriorating patient. Staff in Maternity and Newborn If your clinical unit would like a
settings who may not be familiar demonstration of the new functionality
with previous BTF releases will be or would like more information, please
provided with face to face training. contact:
chanelle.stowers@health.nsw.gov.au or
BTF Version 4 upgrade will Go Live
nichola.gregory@health.nsw.gov.au.
on 1st of June 2021 for all sites.
Put Cyber
Security
training on
your to-do list
In April, a new cyber
security training module
was made mandatory
for all NSW Health Don’t get scammed by
staff, contractors and
students.
coronavirus
Scamwatch is warning Australians of scams
The Cyber Security Fundamentals will relating to COVID-19 vaccinations in Australia
help you identify and prevent common
cyber threats, recognise phishing emails, and overseas.
use email safely to protect personal,
Scamwatch has received over 6,415 alert to this kind of activity.
health or other sensitive information,
scam reports mentioning the coronavirus
and create and use strong passwords. Do not provide your personal, banking
with more than $9,800,000 in reported
or superannuation details to strangers
The course supports PD2020_046 losses since the outbreak of COVID-19
who have approached you.
Electronic Information Security policy (coronavirus).
requirements, and takes around 20 Scammers may pretend to have a
Common scams include phishing for
minutes to complete. connection with you, so it’s important
personal information, online shopping,
to stop and check, even when you
Existing staff must complete the and superannuation scams, all intended
are approached by what you think is a
training within 4 weeks of targeting, to gain your personal information or hard
trusted organisation.
and new staff must complete within earned money.
4 weeks of orientation Visit Scamwatch for more warnings
Scammers are hoping that you have let
and news about COVID-19 scams.
Find it through My Health Learning. your guard down, so be cautious and
ISSUE 3 - 2021
MAY/JUNE 17What a relief! Recovery
outreach has us in stitches
A good chat, a shared meal and a laugh are at the
heart of a comedy relief tour helping small towns
and villages recover from drought, flood and fire.
Throughout April, the National Drought available to their communities which have
and North Queensland Flood Response been affected by one natural disaster
and Recovery Agency visited rural after another, as well as the pandemic.
communities in Northern NSW with a
Staff from Northern NSW Local Health
night of comedy paired with health and
District’s Bushfire Recovery Team, Rural
financial support.
Community Counsellors and RAMHP
Rural Adversity in Mental Health Program Coordinators, joined a host of support
coordinator, Samantha Osborne, said and recovery staff from government
the nights were all about connecting agencies and St Vincent de Paul to offer
people to each other and to mental health guidance, resources and a friendly ear. L-R: Fiona Couch - NNSWLHD Rural Community
and wellbeing support in a safe space. Counsellor, Trish Kench NNSWLHD Bushfire
“The events were really Recovery Clinician, Damian Callinan, Katrina
For small towns, that’s often the local McDougal - Rural Financial Counsellor, Sandy
well-attended, and highly
community hall. McNaughton - Regional Recovery Officer with National
enjoyable,” Sam said. Drought and Flood Response and Recovery Agency.
“We brought the services to
the people,” Sam said. Multi-award-winning comedian, actor,
screenwriter and storyteller, Damian
“It was great to be able to have Callinan, brought the house down with
conversations, and provide a his stand up comedy act to round out the
chance for social connections evening.
over a free dinner, finished
Events were held in Liston, Bonalbo,
off with some laughs from
Mallanganee, Ewingar, Lawrence and
comedian Damian Callinan.”
Copmanhurst.
As well as the light-hearted side, the For support and resources, head to the
nights were a chance for locals to learn RAMHP website. L-R: Paula Hilliard - Rural Financial Counsellor, Lynne
more about the sort of help that is Shailer – NNSWLHD Bushfire Recovery Clinician,
Janelle Saffin- Member for Lismore, Fiona Couch.
Country music star
opens up on wellbeing
and healing
The Rural Adversity Mental Health Program
(RAMHP), together with RAMHP Ambassador
Melinda Schneider, are rolling out a series of free
wellbeing events in rural communities.
Melinda Schneider
We invite you to come and bring a friend, Learn what it means to be 'gentle
enjoy a cuppa and live music, and take on yourself' as you listen to some of We look forward to seeing you on
some time out to reflect on your own Melinda’s most healing songs. Saturday 26 June - 12-2pm
wellbeing. Casino RSM Club, 162 Canterbury
Local RAMHP Coordinators Alex
Hear from much loved Australian country Grantham and Sam Osborne will host an Street, Casino
music singer and song writer, Melinda engaging session about wellbeing and Bookings are essential. Register at
Schneider, as she shares her story about self-care, and how we can all find more Eventbrite: shorturl.at/wK249
her struggles with mental ill-health. ways of being gentle on ourselves.
For more information contact:
There will also be an opportunity to Alex Grantham on 0428 886 752 or
connect with others over afternoon tea, Alexandra.Grantham@health.nsw.gov.au
and a Q&A to round out the day.
18 ISSUE 3 - 2021
MAY/JUNEFarewell After more than 20
years at Lismore
Patrick Base Hospital, Renal
McDermott Unit Enrolled Nurse,
Patrick McDermott is
hanging up the apron.
Patrick has been a highly valued The LBH Renal Unit staff nominated
employee of both Lismore and Ballina Patrick for a Staff Achievement
hospitals over the years with many a tale Award in 2018. When Patrick won, he
to tell, in his best Irish accent. purchased an item for a vulnerable
patient to improve her comfort during
Patrick is greatly admired for his ability
dialysis.
to break the tension in chaotic situations
and melt the ice of a straight-faced Patrick will be missed by all. We wish
manager in a serious moment. him all the best in retirement. Patrick McDermott with LBH
Director of Nursing Narelle Gleeson
In his earlier health carer, Patrick
worked as a wardsperson, and as an
EN in operating theatres in Sydney prior
to coming to Lismore, and has been
the eyes and ears of many stressful
scenarios, retelling them like a scene
from Are You being Served, or Fawlty
Towers.
There were many times when the ward
was in a state of busy chaos where staff
would ask “where’s Patrick?!”
The majority of the time, Patrick would
be found providing care or an ear and
counsel to a struggling patient, ensuring
they are not lost in the churn, and making
their day in the process.
Patrick McDermott (fifth from right) with Renal Unit colleagues.
Farewell
Darleen Berwick
It was with sadness and excitement that
Murwillumbah District Hospital said goodbye to
Executive Officer/Director of Nursing,
Darleen Berwick in March.
Darleen commenced employment with Darleen’s dedication to improving
The Tweed Hospital before transferring relationships with the indigenous
to Murwillumbah District Hospital in 2013 community is evidenced throughout
as NUM of Surgical Ward. Darleen Murwillumbah District Hospital and has
progressed to Deputy Director of Nursing become an enduring legacy. Her drive
in 2015, and then to Executive Officer/ for improvement and a creative mind
Director of Nursing from 2018 until her enabled many memorable moments
resignation in April 2021. for those lucky enough to have had the
pleasure of working with her.
Throughout this time, Darleen strived to
keep patients at the forefront of care, and We wish Darleen all the best in her new
continued to be part of service delivery at adventures!
the Tweed and Murwillumbah hospitals.
Darleen Berwick
ISSUE 3 - 2021
MAY/JUNE 19NORTHERN
20 ISSUE 3 - 2021
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