Glynis Schultz, Executive Director, Community and Oral Health

It is the first day of spring and we are thankfully seeing a reduction in pressure on our services due to a decrease in COVID-19 cases. This provides us with a great opportunity to come together, reconnect and re-focus our efforts.

Yesterday, we held a great staff gathering and a number of virtual information sessions as part of Dying to Know Day. This included a breakfast organised by the Community Palliative Care team at North Lakes Health Precinct and some informative Team sessions focusing on respecting sorry business, selfcare and Advance Care Planning.

Next week we will celebrate RUOK Day on Thursday September 8.

This will be a perfect opportunity for staff to spend some time together, reflect and provide a timely reminder for us all to look out for one another and oneself.

Every day we should get in the habit of asking our colleagues – Are you OK? We should be having meaningful conversation if you spot the signs that someone you care about might be struggling.

Next week, across Metro North Health and Community and Oral Health there will be opportunities for staff to come together to celebrate RUOK? Day. Join one of the following COH morning or afternoon teas.

• North Lakes Health Precinct, RUOK Morning Tea (10.00 am)
• Aspley Community Health Centre, RUOK Morning Tea (10.00 am)
• Pine Rivers Community Health Centre, RUOK Morning Tea (10.00 am)
• Redcliffe Community Health Centre RUOK Morning Tea (10.30 am)
• Cooinda House, RUOK Morning Tea and Staff Barbeque (10.00 am)
• Chermside Community Health Centre, RUOK Morning Tea (10.00 am)
• North West Community Health Centre, RUOK Morning Tea (10.00 am)
• Caboolture Community Health Centre, RUOK Afternoon Tea (3.30 pm)
• King Street Community Health Centre, RUOK Afternoon Tea (3.30 pm)
• Brighton Health Campus, RUOK Morning Tea (10.00 am).

In addition, all staff are welcome to attend the Metro North Health RUOK? Day Team sessions.

A great compliment – Humpybong State School Oral Health Clinic

“I would just like to acknowledge and sing the praises of the Humpybong State School Oral Health Clinic. I have four children that have attended this clinic over the years and have always been so well looked after by all the staff.

“In particular, we have seen Emma and Sandy numerous times at the request of my children and they are always so patient and kind. They have gone above and beyond every time we come.

“My daughter has a lot of anxiety going to the dentist and will only go if it’s with Emma. Emma has been so patient with her and often has taken more time than it should.

“I can’t remember all the names of the staff we have seen and some were also at the Kippa Ring Oral Health Clinic too. But they have all given exemplary patient focused care. Thank you for making my kids feel so safe and cared for when they have been very anxious.”

Quote to ponder

Richard Carlson said: “Reflection is one of the most underused yet powerful tools for success.” 

Glynis Schultz

Executive Director
Community and Oral Health