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Northern NSW
Local Health District News
Issue 4 - 2021 July/August
4 Celebrating our nurses and midwives
8 Changing of the guard
Profile:
10 Physiotherapist, James McInnes
NORTHERN
THIS ISSUE Executive
we cannot be complacent and that the I am constantly amazed by your
pandemic is far from over. resilience, and sustained efforts in caring
Update As a community, we should be proud of for our community with a smile.
our efforts to date to prevent the spread WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU A
Executive update 3 of the virus. Keeping our distance, hand HUNDRED REASONS TO
hygiene and mask-wearing have all been BREAKDOWN AND CRY,
From the Chair 3 vital to keeping the virus at bay. SHOW LIFE THAT YOU HAVE A
We can’t take being free of COVID for MILLION REASONS TO SMILE
Celebrating our nurses and midwives 4
granted, especially as more contagious AND LAUGH STAY STRONG.
It’s what I do, not who I am: Podcast variants emerge. We have seen how
series
5 difficult it is for coronavirus to be Northern NSW Local Health District
controlled once it has gotten out into the staff continue to provide excellent high-
30 years in the Pink 6 community. quality best practice care. This edition
Home is where you Tele-healthy hearts at Tweed 7
Across NNSWLHD, our testing clinics
of the Northern Exposure highlights the
achievements and dedication of many
make it.
and vaccination clinics will continue to
be the cornerstone of our COVID-19 of our staff and the introduction of new
Medical Imaging is getting a new look 7 response. technologies.
Lynne Weir - Acting Chief Executive
Every edition I look forward to learning the stories of staff The coronavirus is likely to persist As you read in this edition, we have
Changing of the guard 8 As you may be aware, our Chief
who have made their home and their career in this beautiful and challenge our lives for some time farewelled two long-serving Board
Executive Wayne Jones has taken
part of the world. Whether they’re long times locals, or to come. That is why vaccination is members – Deb Monaghan and Chair
relative newcomers from across the oceans, they find
Focus on the elderly at a short secondment to the Ministry
new Geriatric Clinic
9 of Health as the A/Deputy Secretary essential. Vaccination is a key part of Dr Brian Pezzutti after 10 years on the
something to love, put down roots and take it from there. protecting our community – please don’t District Board.
of Patient Experience and System
This month we meet Geriatrician Dr Muhammad Khan and Profile: Physiotherapist, James McInnes 10 Performance. I am sure you join me in put it off!
I would like to acknowledge and thank
Physiotherapist James McInnes, who both came to Australia congratulating Wayne, as this is a great Increasing activity and acuity, COVID Deb and Brian for their service over the
around 15 years ago, as well as the heartwarming story of COVID-19 Clinic openings 12 opportunity and a testament to his skills vaccination clinics, COVID testing clinics, last ten years. Their contribution on the
Laureen Jones, a 30 year volunteering veteran of the and ability. screening, redevelopments and building Board has resulted in Northern NSW
Tweed Hospital Pink Ladies. sites, uncertainty around holidays and
Happy Heart gets people moving 13 The COVID-19 outbreaks across being recognised as a high performing
We farewell two long-serving Board members, Brian impediments on visiting family and friends
Australia are a reminder to us all that Health District.
Pezzutti and Deb Monaghan, and feature generous Want to improve communication with all impact on you, our staff.
donations from local families whose loved ones have been patients, carers and families? It’s easy as 13
cared for in our hospitals. 1, 2, 3.
A new podcast is tackling stigma against people who inject Portraiture brings young artists’ skills to
drugs, by sharing the experiences of locals to break down the hospital
14
From the
barriers and make it easier for them to get the healthcare The senior leadership team has done a
Preventing abuse and neglect of older
they need.
people
14 fantastic job, supported by managers at
Chair
Among the hectic work days, the COVID-19 outbreaks, every level and at every site, as well as
and the parliamentary inquiries, it’s refreshing to remember myVirtualCare 15 in our fantastic community health teams,
that at heart, we are an organisation filled with wonderful, dental services and public health service.
everyday people building their lives and communities caring Donate online in just a few clicks 15 Brian Pezzutti - Board Chair I thank Board Members past and present
for others both inside and outside of work. At times like for ensuring good governance and
these, I’m glad I ended up here, too. Congress hub brings surgeons together This is my last column for Northern
on home turf
15 Exposure as I leave the Board of
keeping a focus on the future.
Northern NSW Local Health District after I thank the NSW and Federal
Pirates aplenty in the Paediatric Ward 16 10 years’ service. Governments and the Ministry of Health
for the capital works which have or are
My association with health services still occurring at the majority of our sites.
Performance management just got easier 16 began in this region in December 1975 as one of the highest performing in
when I established my practice in NSW, our measured outcomes are The strong support we have had from our
Digital Dose 17 anaesthesia and intensive care with my second to none, and patient satisfaction parliamentary representatives Bill Rixon,
friend David Ulyatt at Lismore Base, St is at the highest level in the state. The Thomas George, Geoff Provest, Janelle
Donation boosts care for cancer patients 18 Vincent’s and Casino Memorial Hospitals. commitment of our clinicians and support Saffin, Ian Causley and Kevin Hogan has
Editor Fiona Baker, staff has made this possible. been invaluable.
Manager Media and Corporate Communications Family and friends honour patient’s In those days, hospitals were smaller and
memory
18 the range of services extended to general Because of this commitment to provide Finally, I thank the many people who
Phone 6620 2141 surgeons, obstetricians and specialist outstanding care, fewer and fewer of our have helped me along this journey, from
Email fiona.baker1@health.nsw.gov.au
Delicious Food makes Morning Tea a general physicians. The nursing care was family members have to go outside the the clinical staff, to the support staff and
Success
18 the community at large. My wife and
of the highest standard and the outcomes District for healthcare.
Northern Exposure is published 8 times a year were exceptional, but many patients had family have been there with me as well.
by the Northern NSW Local Health District. Staff Appreciation Awards 19 The growing self-sufficiency is a credit to
to be transferred to Brisbane or Sydney I am confident that - as we each need
We welcome your contributions, suggestions government investment and the fact that
for specialised care. health services in the future - the Board,
and feedback. our welcoming attitude has helped us
Cover Image: Lismore Base Hospital Nurse Educators Since then, I have watched and helped attract and retain the best people. the Chief Executive and all staff will be
wear Senior Style Cavell Veils worn by nursing sisters health services grow in each valley in our there for everyone in our community,
www.facebook.com/northernnswlocalhealthdistrict/ I commend the leadership and making sure the care is the best it can
in the ‘60s & ‘70s. L-R: Bronwyn Melchior, Holly Kean, region.
management of Chris Crawford PSM and be, delivered in the most compassionate
Daisy Edwards, Michelle Murphy, Charmaine Murphy,
https://twitter.com/NNSWLHD As I leave the role of Board Chair, I am Wayne Jones, both exceptional Chief manner.
Jenny Siddle
proud to say that our District is viewed Executives.
Back cover image: Wollumbin (Mount Warning).
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Celebrating It’s what I do, not who I am: Podcast series to
In Kingscliff, midwives from around Lismore Community Health Nurses also
the District enjoyed a walk along the celebrated with Nurse Educator Roger
our nurses and reduce stigma against injecting drug users
foreshore and a picnic afterwards. Revill saying there had been many
challenges throughout the years and
Lismore Base Hospital Early Career
midwives
more recently with COVID, however, “we
Midwife award winner Vanessa Clements
have always found a solution and worked
said being a midwife is a privileged role.
together as a team.”
“I feel so honoured to be there stories that don’t reach the mainstream
The powerful human and hold a safe space for women
Community health nurses include Child
and Family Health Nurses, Aboriginal
and we want to try and shift people’s
thinking around injecting drug users”.
connection nurses and and their families, to support
Maternal Infant Health midwives, Breast
them, advocate for them and “When you hear a person’s
midwives have with their hopefully help them have the
Care Nurses, Palliative Care Nurses,
story, that can help change
Community Nurses, Chronic Care Nurse
patients became the best possible experience during
and Diabetes educators. the outcomes. Often people
pregnancy, labour and birth, are not exposed to different
focus of celebrations for and as they enter parenthood,” Fellow Nurse Educator, Jenny Siddle, stories, and when they are it
International Day of the Midwife Vanessa said. reflected on her role at Lismore Base changes the conversation.”
Midwife on 5 May and Midwife of the Year winner Jenna
Hospital.
Harm reduction officers on the North
International Nurses Day Monro-Argent, said: “I like helping people, I love
being an educator, it’s been the
Coast reached out to local injecting
on 12 May. “I love working in partnership best part of my career. It’s good
drug users from a broad demographic
across genders, cultures, socio economic
with women and supporting to be involved in looking after
them through one of the most indicators and different types of using
Both days celebrate the achievements the young nurses to leave a good experiences.
significant experiences of their legacy,” Jenny said.
of nurses and midwives within their
life.” In a rented weatherboard house, the
community and local health service.
Daily Dose crew created an anonymous,
Celebrations took place throughout the comfortable and welcoming environment
Northern NSW Local Health District. in which people could tell their stories.
In Ballina, healing heart stickers were “It was not an interview but a
distributed to staff, clients and visitors The Daily Dose Podcast Crew Mandy Nolan and Dr George Catsi have conducted a series of interviews with
North Coast injecting drug users. conversation,” Dr Catsi said.
throughout the day, and staff reflected “For many, their stories have
on the history of nurses with some never been told, and while they
dressing up as historical identities such A ground breaking “Living in a rural community,
have volunteered, they are
PWID have limited avenues
as Florence Nightingale. Lismore held
an afternoon tea and reminisced on the
podcast series is striving to access sterile injecting
arriving in a space that is risky.
changes within nursing. to reduce stigma in equipment. Addressing stigma “For many of them they could
and discrimination has a direct
4
health care settings impact on preventing BBV
lose their job, many people
don’t know they choose to
towards people who transmission.” inject. When people find out,
inject drugs (PWID), as To help change attitudes, the HARP team
there is a judgement made and
things can change for them,
a way of improving their have joined forces with the Daily Dose
and not necessarily for the
Podcast Crew of Mandy Nolan and Dr
wellbeing and treatment George Catsi to develop an interview
better.”
outcomes. series telling the stories of PWID as well The podcast series will be launched
1 as health experts, Dr Alex Wodak and as part of Hepatitis Awareness Week
Prof. Carla Treloar. from 26 July – 1 August and is being
7 Research shows discrimination towards Dr Catsi said participants were asked supported with funding by the NSW
people who inject drugs is a barrier to what they would say to a health care Ministry of Health.
seeking treatment. Eighty per cent of worker if they could.
people who inject drugs report having The North Coast Public Health Unit has
experienced discrimination when seeking “One person answered, “I just taken significant steps to address this
5 help in health care settings . want to be treated equal to the issue across the North Coast and with
alcoholics”. For me that is health staff.
2 “A shift in attitude by so powerful. They are saying
healthcare workers could be During the last internal campaign to
I know I am using a drug, but promote staff completing the My Health
8 all it takes to improve health can I just be treated as the
outcomes for people who Learning /HETI ‘Stigma, Discrimination
other drug users,” Dr Catsi and Injecting Drug Use’ module, over
inject drugs,” North Coast said
HARP Health Promotion and 730 staff across NNSW and MNC LHDs
BBV Prevention Programs completed this module.
“Another said “It’s what I do,
Manager Franklin John-Leader not who I am”, and this frames We encourage all staff who have not
said. the whole podcast series. completed the module to head to HETI,
Stigma totally defines you.” and search for course code 96479339.
3 6 9 The North Coast region has some of
the highest rates of Hepatitis C, a blood Ms Nolan said they wanted to get For more information, contact Franklin
1 – Nimbin nurses Tyler Meyers (RN), Anne Stevenson (AIN), Heidi Blizard (AIN), Kathy Reay (EEN); 2 – Nimbin nurse Shannon Holgate (EEN) with residents Beryl Ferstat borne virus (BBV) primarily transmitted involved in the project because “as John-Leader:
and Doug Ford, and Wendy Longmuir (RN); 3 – Lismore Community Health Nurses Joanne Cooper, Sean Cadzow, Dianne Piccoli , Grace Armstrong, Jade Stirling , Kate via the sharing of injecting equipment. storytellers we are interested in telling franklin.johnleader@health.nsw.gov.au
Mitchel, Suzy Kyle, Jamie Irvine; 4 - Ballina nurses celebrate by dressing up in historical nurses’ uniforms; 5- Murwillumbah and Tweed MGP midwives in Kingscliff; 6 –
Narelle Gleeson (DON), Vanessa Clements (midwife), Jacinta Felsch (Midwifery Manager), Jenna Monro-Argent (midwife) and Rebekka Battista (Our Kids) at LBH midwifery
awards; 7 – Lismore Nurses Angela Mitchell, Merryan Payne, Rebekah Poole; 8 – NNSWLHD Director of Nursing and Midwifery Katharine Duffy and Lea Mcallister (NUM)
cut the cake at LBH; 9 – Ballina Community Nurses.
4 ISSUE 4 - 2021
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30 years Tele-healthy hearts at Tweed
in the The COVID-19 pandemic “Initially patients were a
Pink
little hesitant because of the
put a stop to face to new technology but as they
face group exercise, have become more familiar
people have been able to rely
but the Tweed Cardiac on alternative methods of
Rehabilitation team have delivery.
successfully worked “The telehealth option has
to adapt their exercise also been well received for
patients who cannot drive or
groups into a virtual get transport to our clinic at
model. the hospital.”
Three decades
of caring and Tweed Cardiac Assessment Nurse Ms Tate said she would like to thank
Rebecca Tate said limitations placed Telehealth Manager Kathy de Souza for
commitment have on group exercise in the gym because her assistance in working through issues
been celebrated of COVID-19 led the group to do some such as audio and connectivity.
at The Tweed out of the box thinking to enable their
patients to keep exercising to improve
Cardiac Rehabilitation is a government
funded program and is provided free to
Hospital (TTH) heart health. people who are at risk of or who have
with The Pink “We have been running virtual experienced an acute and/or chronic
cardiac condition.
Ladies marking exercise classes using Skype
since October last year to Cardiac Rehabilitation that is medically
30 years of encourage people to exercise supervised is recommended by health
service. at home. We run the groups practitioners as the most effective way
with no more than around to assist a safe recovery while providing
three to four people to make support, education and self-management
sure it is safe,” Ms Tate said. strategies to manage your heart
condition.
“It took a few months of
planning and organising Places are limited for Cardiac
to develop. For instance, Rehabilitation, so patients are
we had to learn not to wear encouraged to commit to attending all The virtual exercise groups are being run
black pants on a black carpet 6-8 weekly sessions of the course. twice a week. Contact (07) 5506 7211 for
background, so it was easier more information, or ask your GP.
for patients to see us online.
The anniversary celebration was held
at TTH during National Volunteer Week
Thirty years later Laureen is still doing
a weekly volunteering shift, helping
“I want to let some of the
younger ones come and Medical Imaging is
to recognise the efforts of volunteers
from The Pink Ladies, United Hospital
nursing staff and patients with laundry,
flowers or just a friendly chat.
experience the wonderful
comradeship of being a Pink getting a new look
Auxiliaries (UHA) and Cancer Council. Lady,” Laureen said.
“It’s just wonderful. People
The event was also an opportunity to just want someone to talk to. Adam Reid, Director, Nursing and
acknowledge the significant contribution They may not have anyone to Midwifery at TTH, said volunteers were
of Pink Lady volunteer Laureen Jones, talk to, especially the older an integral part of the hospital, selflessly
who is the only original member of the people in hospital. It’s just giving up their time to assist patients and An integrated RIS and PACS solution Advance Web Viewer Scheduled Go-Live Dates
Tweed branch. so rewarding hearing other their families. • Sectra PACS = a single state-level • Allows clinicians to view a patient’s • Tweed Group: 19 October
In 1991 Laureen was one of 50 people
people’s stories.” system with state-agreed configuration prior medical images from eMR Patient • Lismore Group: 2 November
“On behalf of all our staff
who responded to a newspaper across all LHDs. summary page • Grafton Group: 16 November
Volunteering has been a large part of and patients, thank you to
advertisement to become a Pink Lady • Kestral RIS = Local instances which • Instant access to prior imaging
Laureen’s life having also volunteered all our volunteers for their Find out more
volunteer at The Tweed Hospital. are adapted to LHD specific radiology • Viewing tools for comparisons,
with Meals on Wheels for 19 years and hard work to help us and help
processes. hyperlinks, measurements and 3D NNSWLHD-RISPACSProject@
“I had retired from work and with Red Cross for seven years, visiting our patients – it’s very much health.nsw.gov.au
• Integrates with the State Wide viewing
was looking for something to local nursing homes. appreciated,” Adam said.
Enterprise Imaging Repository to view • Orthopedic templating package
do,” Laureen said. However, Laureen said she plans to Another significant volunteer milestone imaging from all public hospitals across
SMS Service
hang up the pink apron some time this will be reached at The Tweed Hospital the state
Appointment reminders for patients
year. later this year when the Tweed UHA • A streamlined, state level, Medical
celebrates its 50th anniversary. Imaging Orderable catalogue for
referrers
6 ISSUE 4 - 2021
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Changing of the guard
He was a specialist in Internal Medicine
before moving to Australia 15 years ago.
“There was no concept of
Geriatric medicine in my home
NNSWLHD Board Chair Brian Pezzutti and fellow country,” Dr Khan said.
long-standing Board member Deb Monaghan have “My interest in geriatric
retired from the Board after 10 years of service. medicine started after working
with older patients in major
city hospitals in NSW, which
Dr Pezzutti and Ms Monaghan were “Deb has also been active Ms Monaghan, a registered nurse at led me to become a fellow of
appointed by the Minister for Health to on the Mental Health Forum Grafton Base Hospital, said it had been the Royal Australian College
the NNSWLHD Board in 2011 when Local and the Drug and Alcohol rewarding to represent nurses and be a of Physicians in Geriatric
Health Districts were established across Community Advisory voice for the Indigenous perspective of Medicine.
the state by the NSW Government. Dr Committee and she has the healthcare system, and to contribute
Pezzutti was appointed Board Chair in provided the Board with to the success of the LHD. “Dealing with older patients
January 2013. valuable feedback and a better Ms Monaghan said she was proud that requires a holistic approach
understanding of the patient the Board had embraced Indigenous which is time-consuming,
Chief Executive Wayne Jones thanked
journey in these areas.” challenging, but rewarding.
Brian and Deb for their significant awareness and cultural perspectives,
listened to concerns, and incorporated There is great diversity in
contributions to the health district and the Reflecting on his time, Dr Pezzutti said older adults as two people of
local community. them into health delivery.
he was proud of the infrastructure future- the same chronological age
Mr Jones said the District Board played a proofing that had been achieved across “The elevation of Aboriginal may have biologically quite
vital role in overseeing performance and the District in the past decade. health as a strategic priority different ages depending on
planning to guide the delivery of services was a key achievement. I feel a their health state.”
“Projects including the
that meet the needs of the community. sense of satisfaction that there
redevelopment of Lismore
is ongoing education, awareness Dr Khan has local knowledge of the
“Brian and Deb have been Base Hospital, the new
and consideration of issues and care needs of the ageing population in
instrumental in overseeing Bonalbo MPS, Grafton Base
that will encourage indigenous Northern NSW. He worked at Lismore
significant changes to meet Hospital Ambulatory Care Unit
people to consider health as a Base Hospital as a Geriatric Advanced
our region’s growing health and Evans Head HealthOne
career choice.” Trainee seven years ago.
needs,” Mr Jones said. will service the community
for many years to come,” Dr She said the Board was a supportive, “Working in a regional hospital
Focus on the
“Since 2011, almost every Pezzutti said. encouraging and dynamic environment. It is expected that the was a unique experience. I
hospital in our footprint has continued growth and ageing really enjoyed my time working
elderly at
been upgraded or rebuilt, new “The new Tweed Valley “I have had the privilege of of Australia’s population with friendly hospital staff
services have been added, our Hospital greenfield meeting and listening to many will lead to an increase in and colleagues and always
development is also a major people from all walks of life
new Geriatric
workforce has grown by more the number of people with thought to come back to serve
than 1000 people, and our achievement for the Board. throughout my time on the Board, dementia over time,” Dr Khan this local health district,” he
and it has made me realise that recalled.
Clinic
annual operating budget has said.
“These state-of-the-art if you have an opportunity to
grown to over $900 million.
facilities will support our staff contribute, do so, as your idea “The social and economic Dr Khan is primarily based at The Tweed
Mr Jones said Dr Pezzutti had been in providing tailored care into could be the catalyst for change.” impact and lack of curative Hospital and provides various Geriatric
a strong and persistent voice to gain the future.” treatment for dementia make services. He has clinics at The Tweed
improved health funding and services for A new Geriatric Clinic it imperative to focus on Hospital and Murwillumbah District
reducing modifiable risk
the region.
focusing on cognitive factors for dementia.
Hospital. The Geriatric Clinic at Byron
Central Hospital will be a new addition,
“Brian’s passion, commitment
and advocacy to obtain
and memory issues starting on 8th July this year. The clinic
improved and accessible in older adults will “The purpose of the clinic is to
diagnose suspected dementia
will run every second Thursday of each
month.
health services for the local start at Byron Central and other cognitive issues
community is unsurpassed.” “We want GPs to refer patients
Hospital in July. early, treat any reversible
conditions, provide education who are suffering from memory
Through her strong advocacy, Ms and other cognitive issues or
and information to patients and
Monaghan has led the way in developing are suspected of dementia,” Dr
families, helping them to make
services for Indigenous communities. Dr Muhammad Aslam Khan is Khan said.
informed decisions that reflect
a Geriatrician at The Tweed
“Deb played a leading their goals and priorities,” Dr
Hospital, and will lead the new Those visiting the clinic for the first
role in the development of Khan explained.
clinic. time will have a comprehensive
the NNSWLHD Integrated
Dr Khan completed his primary medical geriatric assessment with a plan and
Aboriginal Health and “Worldwide, around 50 million
degree at the University of Karachi and recommendations.
Wellbeing Plan that has people have dementia, and
steered our District’s work in then trained for internal medicine at the To send referrals and book clinic
this number is set to triple
delivering Aboriginal health Aga Khan University Hospital. appointments, Fax (02) 6639 9410.
by 2050. There were close to
programs to improve outcomes half a million Australians with
for our communities,” Mr dementia in 2020.
Jones said. Dr Brian Pezzutti, Board Chair Ms Deb Monaghan, Board Member
8 ISSUE 4 - 2021
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PROFILE
Physiotherapist – James McInnes
Sunshine and stunning beaches lured James, who also has a degree in French,
Clarence Physiotherapist James McInnes changed direction in careers following a
to change his life and move his family to summer job with his aunt who was an intensive
the other side of the world more than 15 care nurse in a hospital in Bristol.
years ago.
“I started doing more work there
And he does not regret it. and helping the stroke unit, and I
started thinking seriously about
“My wife Lesley and I came
physio because I was helping the
from Edinburgh to visit friends
physios to get people walking,” he
here in Maclean, but we didn’t
said.
realise how beautiful it was,”
James said. “From a personal point of view,
it was a combination of using my
“We loved the space and the
brain and my body - it was not
freedom and we both love the
just sitting behind a desk. I really
beach.
enjoyed helping people to get
“Winter is pretty terrible mobile and active again.”
in Edinburgh, the winter
For the past five years James has worked
temperature here is summer
as the Student Co-ordinator for Clarence
temperature back there, and
physiotherapy and has trained more than
people start sunbathing at 20
200 students in that time.
degrees.”
“An opportunity came up through
But for James, the temperature was not University Centre for Rural Health to
the only drawcard that attracted him to take on more students,” he said.
the role – it was the friendliness of a rural
area. “I was attracted to the role because
it helps you look at your own
“We both went to university in When he
practice and why you do the things
a rural town and we enjoyed applied for the
you do and to make sure that it
that and afterwards working in role in 2007, James “As a “It is great to
is evidence-based practice. The
cities, I don’t think we realized was the only applicant. physio watch someone do
students ask curly questions and
how kind of stressed we had working in a exercise for the first
that challenges you.” “Recruitment used to
been until we got here,” he public hospital in time in 40 years and
be difficult, but now we
said. The UCRH program now works in partnership a rural area, we can they often surprise
get a healthy number of
with the Australian Catholic University but end up seeing a real mix themselves about
“We came because we had applicants – almost 50
of patients, from those in how much they can
friends here and love the
student placements are also coming from per cent of our staff have
University of Sydney, Newcastle and Griffith ICU, to rehabilitation, right change.”
lifestyle but also because previously been students
University, Charles Sturt and James Cook through to visiting patients
Maclean is a pretty friendly here.”
University. in their own homes.
town, you go around and
James does not hesitate to
people say hi to each other, “I tell the students that I am not “The area has a lot of
admit he loves his job.
and sometimes you have trying to make you a clone of me, over 70s and that said, a
to allow extra time in the what I want you to be able to do is “I don’t really care about lot of them are extremely
supermarket because you meet to clinically reason what you are whether someone can active and keen on staying
up with former patients.” doing and explain your reasoning,” run 100m in ten seconds, active, but we also get
James said. but I do care if they can people in the gym who
James has even discovered the tartan of walk across the room,” have never exercised.
his grandfather on display in the street of he said.
‘the Scottish town in Australia’.
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Happy Heart gets people moving
Health staff enthusiastically promoted the benefits of a healthy heart
as part of Heart Week in May this year.
Heart Disease and stroke is the leading
cause of death for both men and women
in Australia.
To raise awareness, Tweed Hospital staff
set up a bike challenge in the reception
area of the hospital, and encouraged staff
to get on the bike and ride.
Exercise sessions were timed with
the goal of trying to reach five hours
of bike riding during the week – the
recommended amount of exercise to
improve heart health.
Staff managed to ride for seven and a
half hours. The bike challenge was a way
to promote awareness of getting a heart
health check – a vital way of reducing
heart disease.
Tweed Mall vaccination clinic - From left, Margaret Crilly (Clinic Manager, NNSWLHD), Jo Oldham-Moir (Emergency Nurse, The Tweed Hospital), Dan McPhee (Paramedic,
NSW Ambulance), Wayne Jones (Chief Executive, NNSWLHD). The Happy Heart mascot was out and
about in the hospital spreading the word
encouraging staff patients and visitors to
COVID-19 Clinic openings know their risks and ways to lower risks
of cardiac disease.
Three new vaccination clinics have been opened across the Northern NSW
Local Health District to support the national COVID-19 vaccination rollout.
Staff have worked tirelessly to establish The clinics are based at the Tweed Mall “Through the booking process, From left, Pamela Barrett (NUM Medical 1/ CCU),
Kellie Thompson (Cardiac Rehabilitation coordinator),
community-based clinics at Tweed next to Aldi, Lismore Shopping Centre our teams are able to ensure Happy Heart (Rebecca Tate!), Sumitra Whippy (RN)
Heads, Lismore and Grafton. and the Link Arcade in Prince Street in we can maximise the volume and Stephanie Cornale (A/NUM Medical 1/CCU).
Grafton. of people attending the clinic
NNSWLHD Chief Executive, Wayne
every day, as well as the
Jones, said the clinics are an additional “We’ve seen a great response
supply of vaccines.
avenue for people who cannot access to the shopping centre clinic
Want to improve communication with patients,
the vaccine through their usual General we recently opened in Lismore, “The clinic staff are providing
Practitioner (GP). and we look forward to being vaccinations continuously
carers and families? It’s easy as 1, 2, 3.
able to provide the same quick throughout the day, and our
“We’re excited to be opening
and easy vaccination process schedulers work with each
these new clinics, making
for people in the Tweed and person to book a time that’s
it easier for people to come
Grafton,” Mr Jones said. convenient for them.”
forward and get vaccinated
1. Review the written information you 2. Use teach-back to confirm people 3. Make improvements to the way your
against COVID-19,” Mr Jones The locations are very convenient for the The vaccination clinics and booking are using in your service. have understood what they need to service delivers care so that is it
said. community, and the feedback from the details can be found through the Eligibility know or do. easier for people to take charge of
general public has been very positive. Checker at health.gov.au. A new Health Literacy guideline is their health.
now available to help you review and To learn how to use teach-back, or
develop patient information. You can to help your staff learn, you can hold Join Health Literacy Ambassador
find it in the policy document library on a health literacy in-service or do the training in August to learn how to
the intranet. online teach-back training at support health literacy improvements in
teachback.org your service
It’s called: Development of Health • Lismore: 4 Aug 2021, 9am -12.30pm
Information Resources (brochures, • Tweed: 12 Aug 2021, 9am - 12.30pm
posters, digital media, web-based
resources, information sheets, audio
files).
If you’d like to become a Health Literacy Ambassador, book an in-service, or if you have a
Health Literacy question, email: NNSWLHD-HealthLiteracy@health.nsw.gov.au.
Yamba resident Renee Preston receives her COVID-19 vaccination from Nurse Lismore Square clinic’s first patient Fay Birney, Clinic Manager Sandra Vidler and Nurse
Immuniser Amy Lowe at the Grafton clinic. Immuniser Leanne Schipanski
12 ISSUE 4 - 2021
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JULY/AUGUST 13
Portraiture brings young myVirtualCare Donate online in just
Education Art program using still
images of the executive members as
artists’ skills to the hospital a few clicks
inspiration.
“This series of portraits myVirtualCare
Have you seen the new artwork hanging in the
bring a unique and
personalised perspective
(myVC) is an Gratitude and thanks To donate online using a credit card,
Lismore Base Hospital Level 4 corridor? of our Executive Leaders enhancement to from patients and their direct deposit or cheque, visit
nnswlhd.health.nsw.gov.au/donate.
to the community through our current families can come in
the young people’s talent,”
The NNSWLHD Out-of-Home Care Health Young people in Out-of-Home Care Kate Dougherty, NNSWLHD virtual care many different forms, People can choose to donate to a
particular hospital or facility, or specify a
Pathway, in partnership with CASPA (Child have painted portraits of our NNSWLHD Acting Out-of-Home Care – telehealth service. and now we’re making unit or service within one of our hospitals.
and Adolescent Specialist Programs and
Accommodation) are giving young people
Executive team as part of an arts
education program.
Coordinator, said. it easier for people Donations can also be directed to Our
within our health district a chance to The project aims to make NNSWLHD who may wish to give a Kids who administer donations for our
children’s wards and equipment.
monetary gift.
Led by experienced artist and teacher,
connect to local health services through a health facilities more welcoming for
Gemma Campbell, the portraits were
new portrait series. young people, and to connect them to Donations over $2.00 are tax deductible,
painted by students in the CASPA and people will receive a tax receipt via
the services in a positive way. Donations and bequests help us to
improve the experience for patients email or post.
“We hope the young in our care, and enable us to provide
artists are encouraged to For people who prefer not to donate
specialised equipment for our hospitals online, there is a paper form which will be
seek health services as and health services.
needed, and consider the available from hospital receptions and on
many career opportunities We have developed a new online hospital wards.
NNSWLHD health offers payment portal where patients, family Brochures, envelopes and posters for
in their local area,” Ms and carers can donate online through patients and visitors will be provided to
Dougherty said. myVC is an approved NSW Health our website. each site.
telehealth platform, used for clinical
care, that uses video technology.
myVC is secure and easy for both
Congress hub brings surgeons
the clinician and patient to connect.
Preventing abuse and neglect of older people myVC can be used as an alternative
together on home turf
to Skype for Business.
A new HealthPathway has been established to address abuse and myVC complements and supports
health services by providing an
neglect of Older People. additional option to traditional
Surgeons in Northern NSW connected virtually
face to face consultations, not a
HealthPathways Clinical Editor Dr Hilton daughter – who was responsible for the ‘These three key documents
replacement. with their colleagues at this year’s Annual
Koppe said the Royal Commission into mistreatment. are significant preventative With the consent of the patient, Scientific Congress.
Aged Care, which handed down its final strategies, providing the older myVC allows not only the patient
Ms McCrae said it was likely a significant
report in February, had helped to highlight person is educated to appoint to be involved, but also GPs,
amount of elder abuse was not reported The congress is the major educational A conference dinner at the Loft restaurant
this important issue. people who will uphold their specialists, interpreters, carers or
and often offenders weren’t aware their event for the Royal Australian College in Lismore rounded out the event, as a
rights,’ Ms McCrae said. family members.
‘The pathway includes thinking behaviour was abusive. of Surgeons (RACS), but COVID-19 chance for the various surgical specialties
about specific groups of The new HealthPathway includes myVC simply requires the patient to concerns and attendance caps meant to come together in a social setting, as
‘Financial abuse is common,’
people who might be at greater information about various types of elder have access to an internet enabled that not everyone could travel to well as enjoying fine food of course!
Ms McCrae said. ‘For example,
risk of elder abuse,’ Dr Koppe abuse and neglect, how to manage device (such as a smart phone, Melbourne for the four day event in
once family members support “Many thanks to Avant,
said.
an older person into a nursing different situations, and details on tablet or home computer) with a May.
Applied Medical and Becton,
home, they often don’t see the referral, depending on the extent of the functional camera, microphone and
‘It provides a stratified Instead, a dedicated group of surgeons Dickinson and Company who
need for the person’s finances problem. stable internet connection, and the gathered at a virtual hub at Lismore’s sponsored the Lismore Hub.
approach to management –
to continue to go to the older ability to use the device. Invercauld House to enjoy the Thank you also to my fellow
looking at people at lower risk Mid and North Coast Localised
through to those at higher risk. person. That is a form of Pathways myVC is currently being rolled out conference closer to home. organisers Dr David Townend,
abuse. across NNSWLHD by a dedicated Dr Gratian Punch and Sandie
manc.communityhealthpathways.org “The setting was scenic and
‘From a GP perspective, it’s project team. This team is available Clarke,” Dr Low said.
‘When carers are looking the facilities excellent for
great because it includes Username: manchealth to provide platform demonstrations,
after people with dementia, such an event,” Urological
information about mandatory Password: conn3ct3d onsite education and support.
physical and verbal abuse are Surgeon, Dr Kenny Low,
reporting requirements, which
not uncommon. Carer burnout For more information, contact said.
GPs may not know about.
There are links to appropriate is a big part of it. It’s a very Kathy De Souza, eClinician Service
“The Lismore Hub was well
resources and hotlines to complex area.’ Coordinator, Virtual Care- Telehealth
attended by consultants,
contact in case of need.’ project on
There are preventative strategies that registrars and retired
0467 785 416 or email
primary care practitioners can put in surgeons. For the first time
Healthy North Coast Deputy Director, nnswlhd-virtualcare@health.nsw.gov.au in many years, urology
Healthy Living and Ageing, Bron McCrae, place to ensure people retain control as
they age. These strategies include having joined the RACS ASC
said that in more than 50 per cent of
in place Power of Attorney, Enduring program instead of having
cases of elder abuse and neglect, it
Guardianship and Advance Care a separate urology specific
was a family member – often a son or a
Directives. event.” Congress attendees at The Loft, Lismore
14 ISSUE 4 - 2021
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JULY/AUGUST 15
Pirates aplenty in the Paediatric Ward Free patient wi-fi now here! DIGITAL DOSE
Pirates stormed The Tweed Hospital paediatric A new, free patient and visitor Wi-Fi network
service and Emergency Department raising a ruckus is now active at hospitals and Multi-Purpose
and bringing smiles to the faces of patients and Services across the District.
staff as part of Pirate Day celebrations in May. The Wi-Fi system allows patients, visitors The paid premium option (4 Mbps) gives the Superloop Support Desk on 1800 904
and carers to stay connected with friends higher download and upload speeds, 182 or email wifisupport@superloop.com.
Pirate Day is an annual national day Tennille Carmichael, Shonnel and family, access entertainment, and which is better for activities such as
of dressing up to raise awareness and Gill and the staff of the ED who manage their everyday lives, wherever streaming videos. Costs for the premium
Please don’t contact State-wide
much needed funds for childhood brain organized the events of the Service Desk or local IT services for
they are in the hospital. package range from $4 to $20 depending
cancer. day. troubleshooting, as this system is
on the number of days purchased.
This system is designed to be accessed managed by Superloop.
“There was a great amount of “Tennille raised more than from the patient’s own device, which may Superloop provides a 24 hour support
spirit put into the day with staff $430 on the day.” be a smartphone, laptop or tablet. Each service to troubleshoot any issues, so
Brochures and posters with instructions
loving dressing up as pirates,” for patients and visitors on how to
site has its own network address. health staff will not need to configure
Nurse Unit Manager of Paediatrician Dr Kim Farage enjoyed a connect have been sent to each site, and
patient devices or solve issues at the
Paedetrics Samantha Petersen hallway sword fight with patient Chase Supported by Superloop Ltd, the Wi-Fi
bedside.
you can also print more copies from the
said. Ridgeway. Kim said the day was great system has a free option and a paid intranet: https://intranet.nnswlhd.health.
fun and raised the spirits of everyone. option. The free option (0.5 Mbps) is For any technical problems with nsw.gov.au/ehealth/patient-wi-fi/
“We enjoyed loads of laughs suitable for sending and receiving emails accessing the Wi-Fi, or to ask questions,
and we would like to thank Since 2015, Pirate Day has raised over or messages, using social media and/or patients, visitors, carers or staff can call
$460,000 for kids’ brain cancer research. searching the internet.
EMR Module
Between the
Flags (BTF)
Upgrade
NOW LIVE!
Above: Staff came to work as pirates to spread good cheer in the Paediatrics and Emergency wards of The Tweed
Hospital. Right: Paediatric patient Chase Ridgeway and Dr Kim Farage engage in a sword fight in the hospital hallway.
Northern
come from a variety of backgrounds
An upgraded version including nursing and administrative
of the eMR module roles. The staff receive about 700 help
“Between the Flags” NSW eHealth
Performance
The new Framework will provide a guide foundation for setting goals, meaningful desk tickets each month and work hard
Clinical
to resolve as many as possible in the
(BTF) Version 4 is now
for every stage of an employee’s journey check-in discussions and a concise and
shortest possible time.
management
within our organisation, from onboarding supportive Performance Appraisal at the
live across NNSWLHD.
Information Our IT staff are located at various sites
processes to performance development. end of each year.
just got easier There are also new procedures for: All new procedures and processes are across the LHD providing support for all
Systems Unit
being supported by extensive training, things related to IT including computers,
This upgrade includes more safety
• Resolving Unsatisfactory phones and printers. They receive about
workflows and an all new intranet features as well as maternity (SMOC)
(CIS)
Performance 850 help desk tickets per month either
environment found under “Workforce” and neonatal (SNOC) observation
A new performance • Probation for new employees to NSW
where staff and managers can access charts.
via SARA or by phone and aim to resolve
Health them as quickly as possible.
management framework all the toolkits, policies, resources and
The staff in Maternity and Special
guides in one place.
specifically for our NNSWLHD will also progressively Care Nursery were supported by the A reminder that all Cerner clinical It may sound clichéd, but it’s true that
sometimes things will be resolved by
The Performance Management applications (e.g. PowerChart,
District is helping to introduce capability sets for each position
which will be outlined in each employee’s Framework is being piloted in Clarence
Enhancing the eMR Project Team and
CIS Staff during the Go Live. FirstNet, Surginet and PAS) and turning off the computer or printer for a
make the assessment position description. in the upcoming weeks and will be rolled ERIC, the ICU EMR, are maintained minute and then turning it back on. With
The overall feedback from clinical by the staff in the eHealth CIS Unit. phones, if it is a new phone plugged into
process easier for staff The Performance Management
out across the whole District later this
year. staff has been positive, with staff These staff are based locally in the the wall or computer with a blue data
and their managers. Framework will be supported by PAT, the reporting that they felt well prepared Northern Rivers and handle the help cord, then unplug the cord going to the
state-wide Performance & Talent System, Comprehensive information, toolkits and and were able to embrace the desk tickets you submit via the state- network plug which will power off the
which is currently being implemented policies will be published soon under one change. wide service desk (SWSD) either phone, wait one minute and then plug it
across all of NSW Health. banner on our intranet. If you like to know on the phone or via SARA on the in again. Let it reboot and then try using
more about the project and training in intranet. it again. If the phone is still not working,
PAT is an easy to use online system that the meantime, contact Dennis Pfitzner, then log a job via SWSD via SARA.
supports you and your manager through Manager HR Projects on 0448 914 636 The staff have extensive experience
the annual review period by providing the or dennis.pfitzner@health.nsw.gov.au. working in health care settings and
16 ISSUE 4 - 2021
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JULY/AUGUST 17
Donation Staff Many nominations were received for the latest
Bill Collingburn donated the money
following the death of his son Stuart
round of staff appreciation awards at two hospitals
boosts care Appreciation
Collingburn who passed away aged 38 in
February after battling bowel cancer. in the Northern NSW Local Health District.
for cancer Mr Collingburn said the money was a
fitting tribute in honour of his beloved son. Awards
patients “Everyone banded together, and
it was a fantastic effort to raise Lismore Base Hospital General Manager There were two winners of the Staff
so much money. I’d like to thank Ian Hatton said the staff appreciation Award - Heath Lang and Craig Mortlock.
the community, Stuart’s friends, awards selection committee received a
Patients at Grafton his partner Peta, and everyone high number of quality nominations which
The Team Award went to the Peritoneal
Dialysis Unit.
made it difficult to decide the winners.
Base Hospital Oncology who made a contribution,” Mr
Collingburn said. Winner of the Hand Hygiene Award -
Unit will benefit from a Winners were congratulated at a
Cycle 1 - Nov 2020-March 2021 was
Grafton Base Hospital staff thanked the presentation in June.
generous donation of family and were very grateful for the
From left, Grafton Base Hospital A/DDON Tina
Morrison, Margaret and Bill Collingburn, stepmother
ward E9.
$8000 by a local family. contribution. Kathie Clarke and Oncology Nurse Manager Norelle
McIntyre
The General Manager’s ‘Special
Appreciation Award’ went to David Allan.
The Tweed Hospital enjoyed a lovely
morning tea when congratulating their
Family and friends honour patient’s memory
award winners.
Rosie Carroll won the TTH Staff
Recognition Award and Bill Sexton won
the Community and Allied Health Staff
Family and friends of Pharmacy Alliance to raise money to On 27 May, Leisa’s birthday, family
Recognition Award.
purchase equipment for dialysis patients members presented a cheque for
the late Leisa Wotton and honour Leisa’s memory. $1000 to Lismore Renal Unit Nursing Thank you for your attendance and for
are helping improve the “The time that Leisa spent in the
Unit Manager, Jane Ruane, and Social your nominations. Thank you also to
Worker Jane Waters.
experience for patients Renal Unit was like being with the Summerland Credit Union for their
generous sponsorship of these staff
in the Lismore Base
another family. It was her aim to “On behalf of the renal unit
Sarah Stefanaras and Jill Smith (Summerland Credit awards.
ensure that all patients felt as well I thank Leisa’s family and
Hospital Renal Unit.
Union representatives) and Narelle Gleeson, Director
supported and comforted as she friends for this generous Nursing and Midwifery, who accepted the Hand
had been.” Andrew said. Hygiene award on behalf of E9 with LBH General
donation,” Ms Ruane said. Manager Ian Hatton
Leisa’s family also extended their thanks From left, Adam Reid (Director of Nursing & Midwifery
“We are always seeking
to the Ballina and Coffs Harbour Renal TTH), Bill Sexton (award winner – Manager, Kingscliff
Unit staff who also provided care for feedback from our patients Community Health) and Bruce Parry (Summerland
on how we can improve Credit Union).
Leisa over the years.
their experience while in our
Goonellabah Pharmacy collected the funds
care, and these funds will go
through their in-store fundraising program,
towards equipment that our
where customers are given a token and
can choose which of several worthy patients have identified.
causes they’d like to receive the money.
From left, Jane Ruane, Leisa’s mother, Andrew “It’s so important that our
Wotton, Judy Currie and Andrew Fitzgerald “Leisa had been a customer of patients have a welcoming Sarah Stefanaras and Jill Smith (Summerland
Credit Union representatives) with Jane Ruane, who
ours, and it was perfect opportunity, experience, and receive accepted the Team Award on behalf of Peritoneal
Leisa Wotton was a dialysis patient making the Renal Unit one of the excellent care in a supportive Dialysis with LBH General Manager Ian Hatton.
when she passed away in 2020. Local options our customers could
environment.”
fundraiser Andrew Fitzgerald partnered choose,” Judy Currie, Goonellabah Sarah Stefanaras and Jill Smith (Summerland Credit
with Leisa’s family and the Goonellabah Pharmacy, said. Union representatives) with staff winner Heath Lang
and LBH General Manager Ian Hatton
Delicious food makes morning tea a success
An array of scrumptious baked goods “The morning tea was a huge success
brought the crowds and the dollars in for and we sold out in two hours,” Bugalwena
a good cause at the Bugalwena Service Service Administration Officer Sandy
Cancer Council Morning Tea in May. Rogers said.
Pancakes with butterscotch sauce, “Thank you to everyone who baked and
scones with fresh jam and cream, donated to the day and thank you to staff From left, Rachael Andrews (Assistant Director of
lamingtons and a variety of slices were that supported the day and the wonderful Nursing – MACC Division, Rosie Carroll (award winner
Staff Winner Craig Mortlock was unable to attend the The General Manager’s Special Award went to David – CNS in Emergency Department TTH) and Bruce
on offer at The Tweed Hospital. community members. We ended up presentation and his staff appreciation award was Allan pictured here with LBH General Manager Ian Parry (Summerland Credit Union).
From left, Sandy Rogers, Missy, Judy Turnball, accepted on his behalf by Anthony Mowbray (C8 Hatton.
raising $1,020 for a good cause.” Colleen Garrett, Tomasina Darling, Chris (red apron), NUM) with LBH General Manager Ian Hatton.
Dan Ashton, Brian Green
18 ISSUE 4 - 2021
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20 ISSUE 4 - 2021
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