Glynis Schultz A/Executive Director Community and Oral Health
The past few weeks have been both challenging and extremely rewarding. Challenging because we adapted and responded to the changes in Tiers in the COVID-19 response plan and are now at Tier 4 as advised in the Incident Controller’s message.
It has been extremely rewarding because each of you has delivered your best and then more at both an individual level and as a team. Thank you again to all those staff across our service lines who have continued to provide quality care for the people in our services as well supporting the COVID-19 response work in the vaccination hubs, hotel quarantine, virtual ward and RAT distribution.
Moving into Tier 4, there is a focus on creating capacity in preparation for the projected high number of patients in our facilities at the end of January. This includes moving non-COVID-19 patients to Community and to private hospital; expanding home visiting services; increasing virtual services and refining oral health care.
Looking out for yourself and each other
During this time of considerable change, I encourage you to stay informed by linking into the daily huddles via TEAMS and reading the daily updates from the Incident Controller.
Each of us responds differently when things are uncertain and it’s more important than ever to take care of yourself, check in on your colleagues and take time out to recharge.
The new Staff Psychology Open Door is a virtual session available to all COH staff every Thursday (2:30 – 3:15pm) with the first session commencing this afternoon. The purpose is to provide a space for staff to explore coping strategies for wellbeing in the current COVID-19 situation. The session will be offered via Teams. Click here to join the meeting
In addition, the Staff Psychology hotline is available on 3647 9673 or by emailing MNStaffPsychology@health.qld.gov.au
Staff wellbeing resources can also be found on the Staff Extranet (Staff wellbeing – Extranet (health.qld.gov.au)) and QHEPS page (Our People’s Wellbeing | Values in Action | Metro North HHS (health.qld.gov.au))
Staff redeployment
Our virtual ward is carrying the bulk of COVID-19 positive patients, allowing our hospitals to treat the sickest patients. Nursing, allied health and administration staff are always needed for this important work.
Staff who would like to be considered for redeployment to support the COVID-19 response can complete the expression of interest online.
HR Hotline
As you would have seen in today’s staff bulletin, the HR hotline is operating seven days a week from 8.00 am to 5.00 pm on 3646 5500. The hotline will provide advice on returning to work and employee entitlements, or any COVID-19 leave related questions. If you need advice please take advantage of this important service.
COH Fit Testing
Fit Testing remains a very important priority for Community and Oral Health and the broader service as we ensure staff are fit tested for at least two masks so you have an alternative if your preferred mask is not available. Following is the link to the COH Fit Testing Timetable. For further information please phone 0487 537 524.
Important reminders
All staff in clinical areas should be wearing P2/ N95 and goggles or face shields, and ensuring they are being cleaned and re-used. The same applies for home visiting staff but they also need to be wearing a full gown and gloves, and changing between each patient. Staff only COVID-19 testing services for symptomatic staff continue to operate at:
- RBWH Education Centre, Monday to Friday, 9.00 am to 4.15 pm
- TPCH, located in Outpatients B (former Children’s Outpatients Department), Monday to Friday, 7.00 am to 2.00 pm
- Caboolture Hospital Staff Carpark, Monday to Sunday, 7.30 am to 5.00 pm.
Staff click and collect RAT Tests are available at Brighton Wellness Hub from 9.00 am – 2.00 pm weekdays for asymptomatic close contact staff.
As we approach the anticipated COVID-19 peak next week, now is the time to get your vaccination booster if you haven’t already. Evidence shows the vaccination booster plays an important role in protecting yourself, your family, and your colleagues and patients from COVID-19.
Quote to ponder
“The bigger the challenge, the bigger the opportunity for growth.”
Glynis Schultz
A/Executive Director
Community and Oral Health