Adj. Prof. Jane Hancock, Chief Operating Officer

Thank you all for your work today as we have managed the impacts of the current severe weather event in our region.

As the rain is easing this afternoon, Metro North has moved to alert. Caboolture Hospital remains on a Code Brown due to the impact of localised flooding. We will continue to monitor and review the situation overnight. Patient and staff safety is our priority.

All emergency departments are accepting patients and I thank you for continuing to provide quality care to patients.

I am aware that we have some staff who will not be able to get home tonight due to flooded roads. If you are not able to safely get home tonight, please talk to your line manager about accommodation arrangements.

As we may continue to see further rain and flooding in the coming days, I encourage staff who live in areas that might become impassable to consider bringing a change of clothes and essential medications to work in case you are unable to get home safely.

Home visiting staff

While we have been able to transfer many patients to virtual care, can I please remind those staff who will be visiting vulnerable patients at home to ensure you check in with your line manager around the risk assessment including current weather and road impacts.

Getting to or from work

We are mindful that as members of the community, staff may also be affected by the weather event. Please talk to your line manager if you are unable to work your rostered shift.

Due to localised flooding, some staff may be unable to access their usual workplace. If you are rostered to work, but cannot get to your usual workplace and can safely reach another Metro North hospital, please notify your line manager and contact the hospital switch to arrange a shift.

If you think you may not be able to safely travel home today, please contact your line manager for local support and accommodation arrangements.

Monitor traffic and road closures on the Qld Traffic website.

Planned care

All areas are asked to look carefully at planned care for the next few days, particularly patients who may not be able to get to or from their appointments. Where clinically appropriate, please use telehealth for these patients.

Car parking

Be aware that some of our carparks and local parking areas have been affected previously and be mindful of where you are parking your car.

Where can I find out more?

Metro North Health has created an extranet site to keep staff across our emergency and disaster response activities. The site also includes links to useful resources including special leave provisions if needed.

Download the BOM alerts app on your phone and turn on the warning notifications for weather events in our region.

Moreton Bay Regional Council is providing updates on local conditions through their disaster portal.

For general information about preparing your home and family for extreme weather and natural disaster events, visit Get Ready Queensland.

Again, thank you for what you’ve done today and for getting prepared ahead of time which has helped us manage today’s weather event.

I will provide another update on the situation tomorrow.

Warm regards,

Jane.