Thanks to Michelle Stute for covering for me while I had a few days leave with my family.

I also want to acknowledge the team on call with me over the Easter break – Adrian, Oliver and Belinda. You made my job so much easier with your pragmatic and competent approach to whatever issues arose.

The time off reminded me of how important it is to recharge to ensure that we are our best selves. On my return, a concern was raised with me that some of the staff are trying to “push through” if they are COVID-19 positive and work from home.

I admire the commitment, but want to stress the importance of looking after yourself so that your recovery is complete. If you are unwell please take the time to look after yourself.

My appeal is not just COVID-19 specific but all acute illnesses – if you are unwell please look after yourself.

Business cases for change

There are a number of change processes being implemented across our services including at Child and Adolescent Oral Health Service to improve the care we provide and make our service a better place to work.

An additional minor business case for change has started for Community and Oral Health clinical assistants with the aim to better develop reporting lines and structure to support these staff to connect with their peers, have stronger professional networks and career pathways.

Clinical assistants, who work across multiple services lines and locations will also have better access to professional support and development opportunities.

The attached COH Clinical Assistant minor business case for change and Child and Adolescent Oral Health Service business case for change is open for feedback until the 3 May.

COVID-19 debriefing sessions

I would encourage as many of you as possible to attend the planned COVID-19 debriefing team sessions coming up in the next few weeks for Community and Oral Health.

If you have already provided feedback through the debriefing surveys you will not need to attend. Click the teams link below to access the relevant profession session.

COH Medical staff – Tuesday 3 May 7.15 am

COH Nursing staff – Tuesday 3 May 2.00 pm

COH Allied Health staff – Monday 9 May midday

COH Facility staff – Monday 9 May 2.30 pm

Reminder about Tier 3

Just a few reminders about Tier 3 and what it means for our directorate:

• Face to face training for essential training only
• Virtual meeting where possible
• Visitor restrictions as per CHO direction
• Vaccinated and fit tested volunteers and students allowed on site
• Remain in high-risk PPE

Close contact updates are expected shortly.

Acknowledging the good we see in others

Please continue to send through your nominations for the Shining Stars amongst us by emailing coh-communications@health.qld.gov.au

The Metro North Culture and Wellbeing team have established the staff shout out portal to acknowledge staff or a team member who embody the values of respect, integrity, compassion, team work and high performance.

The team has advised that they will be visiting the directorates over the next few months to promote the initiative.

Quote to ponder

Dwayne Johnson said: “Success isn’t overnight. It’s about everyday you get a little bit better than the day before. It all adds up.” 

Glynis Schultz
Executive Director
Community and Oral Health