The accreditation process last week reflected positively on all of our services and the accreditors spoke highly of the cleanliness and maintenance of facilities as well as the compassionate patient and family-centred care they witnessed.

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of catching up with the staff from the Oral Health Centre as part of the Community and Oral Health Staff Excellence Awards roadshow.

For the event, I crowned the dual winner of our new awards category – Supporting Excellence in Care.

The Crown and Bridge Laboratory at the Oral Health Centre – Danielle Caruso, Samantha Flood and Mira Cecez

We introduced this category to acknowledge the exceptional support services across COH such as administration, education, engineering, business, technical support and corporate services which enhance the delivery of patient care.

The Crown and Bridge Laboratory were clearly deserving winners and here is why:

“For supporting undergraduate and postgraduate students and specialist dentists at the Oral Health Centre – From simple crown cases supporting the undergraduates on the start of their dental career through to complex multi-unit cases for implants, and head and neck cancer patients.

“For supporting the specialist dentists. Also showing care and compassion when chairside assisting with the treatment plans for the patients (and their carers) that come to the OHC, many who are compromised and in need of extra support.

“They often work to tight time frames and work in exceptional circumstances due to water damage and the laboratory being moved.

“For putting the patient first and always looking for the best outcome for them. They always pull together as a team and support each other.”

It has been both important and rewarding for myself and Mario to be able to visit as many facilities as possible and catch up and acknowledge our staff as part of our staff awards.

SAVE THE DATE – Domestic and Family Violence Awareness Expo

All staff are encouraged where possible to attend the Domestic and Family Violence Awareness Expo on November 29, 2023, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm.

Come to the Brighton Wellness Hub to hear from visiting services:

• Police Services
• Services Australia
• Caxton Legal
• Uniting Care Services.

FREE LUNCH from 12:00 – 1:00 pm

Also join the Heart Foundation, Brighton Walkers at 9:00 am for a 30-45 minute stroll along the waterfront to show our support to those who are or have been affected by Family and Domestic Violence.

Safe Work Month Last month, Community and Oral Health celebrated the National Safe Work Month, a time to reflect and reinvigorate our commitment to the safety and wellbeing of our dedicated workforce. Through the month, we collectively engaged with workers at morning tea events, creating a positive atmosphere for workers to interact, participate in some exciting safety activities and games. An educational game (spot the hazard) was also rolled out across the Directorate to raise awareness about some common hazards that could exist in our workplace. We were happy to see a high level of participation as it speaks to a well evolved safety culture within Community and Oral Health. By focusing on safety, we not only reduce the risk of accidents and injuries, but also foster a culture of awareness and responsibility with our workers becoming safety ambassadors, advocating for a secure workplace and inspiring others to do the same. As Safe Work month is now over, it is vital to emphasize that safety is not a one-time event, but an ongoing commitment. Therfore, I encourage you to carry the lessons learned and the newfound awareness into your daily work routines. By doing so, we can ensure that safety remains at the core of our operations, protecting both our employees and the future of our organisation. I thank each and every one that participated in Safe Work Month. Let us keep our focus on safety, not only for the month of October, but on an ongoing basis!

Compliment – Brighton Brain Injury Service

Another great compliment for a wonderful service.

“Brighton Brain Injury Service (BBIS) continues to excel at Metro North Health. The service continues to provide patient-centred care and advocacy while supporting the acute hospitals with bed flow.

“Their ability to think outside the box and provide alternative models should be commended. Thank you BBIS!”

Staff movements

I will be taking planned annual leave from Saturday 18 November to Monday 4 December 2023 inclusive.

During this time, Mary Wheeldon will be acting Executive Director, Community and Oral Health.

A final shout out

The Kallangur Satellite Hospital is set to open its doors to the public in December, providing services close to home, as well as some non-life-threatening emergency care.

Services include a minor injury and illness clinic, oral health clinic, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health hub, renal dialysis, older people health services, medical imaging and a rapid access service.

Leanne Carroll will manage the allied health team, who will help to provide the specialist older persons reconditioning and rehab service, that supports people to remain at home by working with the patient, their GP and the onsite multidisciplinary team.

Read more …

Glynis.