A dedicated Indigenous Hospital Liaison Officer (IHLO) in the Emergency Department (ED) is another way that Caboolture Hospital is working towards Closing The Gap.

The ED IHLO role improves the journey through the ED for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients.

The role was developed by ED Nurse Megan Sinclair and Research Coordinator Stacey Watts in conjunction with local traditional owners and other Elders, to further break down health access barriers and provide a culturally safe and inviting department. An initial six-month trial of the position has been funded by a Metro North Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Leadership Team Better Together grant.

“This role is already improving the discharge process from the ED back to the community, decreasing the number of ‘discharge against medical advice’ and ‘left after treatment commenced’ and addresses any patient complaints or concerns at the time of contact or very soon after,” Megan said.

Caboolture ED staff meet regularly with Traditional Owners and other Elders of the land on which the hospital is built. It was from these meetings that community members highlighted the need and importance of formal ATSI representation in the ED.

Brianna Guy works in the ED IHLO role Monday and Friday and every second Thursday from 8am to 4pm.
Brianna said she was very thankful for the opportunity to be able to help improve the health outcomes of Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander people.

She hopes the trial will lead to a full-time position to improve the Indigenous health gap and provide employment for Indigenous staff.

“Having an increased, visible presence and formal connection with the local Elder group is already improving the indigenous health gap,” Brianna said.

“Our commitment to build relationships with key local ATSI community members has improved health outcomes over the past two years and I hope to continue to develop this in the ED IHLO role.

“Megan, Stacey and I believe this project is a great step on the way towards Closing The Gap.”