Innovation leaders. TPCH’s most recent graduates of the Graduate Certificate in Health Service (Health Service Innovation) Louise Perkins (left) and Jodie Huntley-Forde (right).

When TPCH Nurse Navigator Jodie Huntley-Forde and Nurse Unit Manager Louise Perkins were selected as part of Metro North’s second cohort of 30 staff to commence the Graduate Certificate in Health Science (Health Service Innovation) in February 2019, no one could have predicted they would be innovating during a once-in-a-century pandemic in the final year of their studies with the Queensland University of Technology (QUT).

Created by the Australian Centre for Health Services Innovation (AusHSI) and QUT in collaboration with Metro North Hospital and Health Service, the Graduate Certificate is designed to support clinicians, administrators and operational staff develop, implement and evaluate innovations within the healthcare setting.

The program, now entering its fourth year, is based on the emerging field of implementation science, providing participants with practical tools, techniques and theory to introduce service improvements and innovations in a health care environment.

Unlike a normal program of study where a person funds their own course, the Graduate Certificate program is predominantly funded by Metro North in recognition of the significant value that participants can contribute back to the health service.

TPCH Executive Director Tami Photinos said that the program provides a valuable opportunity for staff to learn practical skills to introduce new ways of doing business in a healthcare environment.

“Healthcare is about continuous improvement and change, so it’s great that staff can acquire the skills to make their innovative ideas a reality and influence better patient care outcomes,” Tami said.

“I’m looking forward to working with our newest graduates Jodie and Louise, who join the alumni of TPCH staff including Associate Professor Jeffery Rowland, Anthony Bligh, Kevin Clark and Leah Thompson who are strong advocates, mentors and leaders for innovation.”

Staff are invited to apply for the Graduate Certificate program’s fourth cohort who will undertake four units, delivered part-time over two years, commencing in July 2021.

Applications are currently open and close midnight on Monday 26 April 2021.

Register to attend the Virtual Roadshow and download the Guide for Applicants.