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Reducing unnecessary appointments and freeing up specialist waitlists is underway for ear, nose and throat (ENT) patients at STARS.

The Patient Initiated Follow Up (PIFU) pathway currently being piloted for ear, nose and throat (ENT) means patients only have appointments when they are needed.

ENT Consultant Dr Sarju said the pathway would ease the burden of appointments which can be disruptive, costly and time-consuming.

“PIFU supports patient-centred care and decision making, by empowering patients to request a follow up outpatient specialist appointment when required, if they have persistent and/or worsening symptoms, or even if they just want to talk through their medical conditions and treatment options," he said.

“By reducing follow up appointments that aren’t required, it means more patients will be able to see a specialist, reducing the current wait times.” ...

Sunshine, sea-breeze and beautifully maintained gardens are just a few things you`ll find at the Brighton Health Campus. 🌊🌴

One of the gardeners keeping the grounds in tip-top shape is Rob who says working out at Brighton has revived his passion in horticulture.

"I was at TPCH for 7 years, but this came up last July and I jumped at the chance, just to get your eyes on a new place and have a new challenge. I also get to pat multiple dogs every day between work," said Rob.

"I love anything to do with gardening; at the moment we are mulching which is laborious but it`s the gratification of knowing what you’re going to achieve when it`s done.

"The best type of gardens are ones where you don’t really notice a change, put me in the garden and I`m a happy camper!"

👏 A big #ShoutoutSaturday to Rob and all of our gardeners across Metro North! 🧑‍🌾🪴 ...

Metro North staff have sported their coolest and most colourful socks today for annual @crazysocks4docs Day, a day to raise awareness and break down mental health stigma amongst doctors. 🧦

The Prince Charles Hospital Dr Kulunu is just one of our many medical staff who can attest to the role requiring long hours, sometimes with immense sacrifice and emotional impacts, which can take a toll without the right supports. ❤️‍🩹

At Metro North, we are committed to making sure our doctors, and all our staff, are supported, with many psychology and support programs and structures in place - and sometimes we throw in some puppy cuddles just to make the workday a little better, too! 🐶

"It`s all about opening up those conversations about mental health, so our staff do feel comfortable to have a chat, open up, and talk about some of those pressing issues," Dr Kulunu said.

"It`s very important that you do set out some time for yourself because if you look after yourself, you can look after your patients better. If you come into work with a fresh mindset; you`re better engaged with your patients and with your colleagues.

"I`ve been working here for almost six months now and it`s my first job as a doctor. I cannot think of anywhere better to start, everyone`s made me feel very welcomed and we`ve got a good community around us." 😍 ...