One of the things I hear a lot is that staff get too many emails and that they want to hear more from their leaders. So, we’re trialing a weekly combined message which will be a one-stop shop for updates from the Metro North senior leadership team. This will allow you to hear from more of our executives without receiving additional emails.

We are commencing COVID-19 vaccinations on Monday from our hub at STARS. Those staff in Phase 1a have been invited to book a time for their vaccine. Queensland is expected to receive additional vaccine supplies from late March, increasing availability for more staff to be vaccinated sooner. Phase 1b timings and locations are not yet confirmed across Metro North, but I will update you when we have more details.

This has been a big piece of work in a short period of time and, as with everything COVID, the situation has changed regularly. I’d like to thank Mary Wheeldon, Angela Coram, Kerry Feilding, Dane Hall and team for their work in pulling together the program, and Debbie McNamara and the STARS team for getting the facility ready.

We have continued to see increased presentations across our facilities this week. Last year was busy and we experienced a lot of change and ambiguity and I know people are still tired. This year is going to be busy and challenging in some of the same ways and some new ways as we roll out the vaccines and deal with the usual winter increases. It’s essential that staff find time to have a break, even if it’s a long weekend, to recharge and refresh. I’m aware that many staff are yet to access the additional two days of ‘health heroes’ COVID leave. This leave expires after two years from when it was announced last year, so when you’re putting in a leave form, use these days first so you don’t run out of time.

Shaun is taking leave during March. Mel Carter will be acting Chief Operating Officer from next week while I’m acting Chief Executive. Cam Abbott will be acting Chief Finance and Corporate Officer.

We have had the sad news that two members of our Metro North community have passed away. Dr Salih Bazdar was well known and respected at Caboolture Hospital. He leaves a legacy that will continue to improve patient outcomes.

Also, this week we heard about the passing of Dr Lesley Fleming OAM. Lesley was the Executive Director Nursing and Midwifery Services Royal Brisbane & Women’s Hospital and Metro North Hospital and Health Service for approximately 10 years until 2014.

Both will be sadly missed by all who knew and worked with them.

Thank you each and everyone for all you continue to do.

Regards,

Jackie Hanson
Chief Operating Officer
Metro North Hospital and Health Service