Meet the NSW Health staff dedicated to improving women’s health |
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The 2024 People Matter Employee Survey has been open for two weeks. My thanks to everyone who has taken time to share their feedback and help make NSW Health an even better place to work. If you haven't done it yet, please take a few minutes to complete the survey before it closes on Friday 13 September. Your feedback really matters.
Last week I was proud to help launch the NSW Aboriginal Health Plan 2024-2034. A large part of the plan centres on sharing power in system reform so we can achieve the highest levels of health and wellbeing for Aboriginal people. A highlight video of the launch is now available and I encourage everyone to learn more about how together we will Close the Gap for Aboriginal people in NSW.
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This Monday also marked the start of Multicultural Health Week 2024 (2-8 September) which kicked off at Parliament House. The theme is Celebrate culture through food with multicultural family lunchboxes. It’s a great way to promote the importance of healthy eating across the culturally and linguistically diverse communities we serve.
Supporting our rich and diverse communities also entails sharing health information in ways people understand. This could include using an interpreter, or making complex health information simple by communicating in jargon-free ‘plain English’. Communication makes a big difference to how patients experience our health service. Please visit our new online resource hub Accessibility matters for handy information and practical resources for clinicians and consumers, plus the new NSW Health Accessible Communications Policy.
This week is also Women’s Health Week (2-6 September). This year’s theme, Your voice. Your choice, highlights the importance of empowering women to speak out when it comes to their health and wellbeing. At NSW Health, we are guided by the Women’s Health Framework. It helps women meet their physical, emotional, social and economic potential. This edition brings to life some of the many ways our people help women across the state. Thank you for making a huge difference in the lives of so many.
Lastly, Check In is piloting a new section called FAQ in Focus. The aim is to share answers to common queries that regularly crop up in conversations with staff. Kind regards, Susan Pearce AM
Secretary, NSW Health |
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Expert tips for pelvic wellness |
Bronwyn Edney is the Senior Physiotherapist in Women’s Health and Paediatrics in the Western Sydney Local Health District. She provides one-on-one care to women who have recently given birth, undergone gynecological surgery, as well as those experiencing incontinence issues, prolapse, or pelvic pain. Ahead of World Physiotherapy Day (8 September), Bronwyn shared some expert tips for pelvic wellness. Watch the video below to learn how you can look after your pelvic health.
“The thing I love most about my job is helping women to manage their symptoms so they can live their lives more fully without fear. It is really exciting when women come back to a follow up appointment and are feeling more confident and empowered to manage their symptoms,” she said. |
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When Holly Goodwin from the Agency of Clinical Innovation and Eve Jenkins from the Bureau of Health Information had their first babies, they both turned to the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) for support. Now, they volunteer on ABA’s Breastfeeding Helpline to offer guidance to other new mums. |
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“ABA connected me with some amazing women who provided a non-judgemental space to find my confidence and step into being a parent,” said Holly.
“I wanted to give back and create that positive reassuring environment for other people. “I love being connected to the community through volunteering and have made some really special friends,” she said.
As a first-time mum of premature twins, Eve was a frequent caller to the Breastfeeding Helpline. “I will never forget the lifesaving reassurance and advice the counsellors I spoke to give me,” said Eve. “I wanted to be there for other mums the way that the counsellors were there for me. “Being able to empathise and reassure mums and provide them with information so that they can make the best decisions for themselves and their families is incredible,” she said. |
| Holly Goodwin and Eve Jenkins |
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To mark Father’s Day read this story about following in dad’s footsteps. Inspired by her dad’s career as a NSW Ambulance Inspector – David Kynaston’s daughter Libbi has graduated as a paramedic intern. |
| Forty years after her life-changing cochlear implant surgery at Royal Prince Alfred hospital in the Sydney Local Health District, Sue Walters, along with her surgeon, Professor Bill Gibson AO gathered to celebrate the success of cochlear implantation. |
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One in four women find menopause significantly impacts their quality of life. Symptoms may include hot flushes, trouble sleeping, and mood changes. It can even potentially lead them to consider leaving their job, or work reduced hours, due to the severity of the symptoms. |
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| The Agency for Clinical Innovation has worked with local health districts to help women with severe or complex menopause symptoms. Four menopause hubs were established and have gone live, along with 12 referral sites which are coming online. Heidi Cairney, Nurse Manager in the Hunter New England Local Health District, is excited to be part of the menopause hub team. They will deliver care across the district, as well as referral sites in Mid North Coast and Northern NSW Local Health Districts.
“People from rural areas often comment on the lack of access to menopause care. They really appreciate the option to receive specialised care, whether in-person or from home using virtual care,” said Heidi. |
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“Patients find it a relief to be listened to and to have someone understand how severe menopause symptoms affect their daily life.” Learn more about the Statewide Menopause Initiative. |
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In the kitchen for Multicultural Health Week |
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One of Australia’s favourite chefs, Adam Liaw, joins this year’s Multicultural Health Week (2-8 September) as Community Champion and Multicultural Health Ambassador to promote healthy eating for families.
Watch the video below with NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant, and South Eastern Sydney Local Health District Population and Community Health Director Dr Marianne Gale take on the Adam's lunchbox challenge. They share their personal, creative and healthy lunchbox ideas that reflect our rich cultural diversity through food and healthy eating. |
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Q: Is the People Matter Employee Survey (PMES) really anonymous or can my identity be determined?
A: This has been a very popular question since the survey opened. Understandably people want to know if their identity is known, or can be determined.
I can happily confirm that the survey is anonymous. We want everyone to feel safe and secure about giving their honest feedback about working for NSW Health.
Protections have been put in place to ensure anonymity. For example, everyone in the organisation receives the same survey link, and it does not collect any personal information such as your name, date of birth, email address or employee ID. Additionally, results are only published when at least 10 people answer a question. This means your responses are grouped with others' to provide anonymity. |
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The 2024 People Matter Employee Survey is open until Friday 13 September 2024. It is your opportunity to have your say. Please take 15 minutes to share your experiences of working for NSW Health. Richard Griffiths Acting Deputy Secretary
People, Culture and Governance |
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Planting seeds of recovery |
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“Planting seeds of recovery may be all I leave, but that seed can lead to something profound further down the track of their journey.”
Tanya Paradine, Acting Senior Peer Worker at Safe Haven, Southern NSW Local Health District |
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Driven by her own past struggles, Tanya is dedicated to empowering others to grow and overcome adversity. In her role as a Peer Worker, she creates a welcoming space for people who are experiencing mental distress.
Peer workers draw on their lived experience to engage, support and instill confidence and hope about the journey of recovery.
“It’s great to know that sharing my lived experience gives people hope by letting them know that they are not alone in how they’re feeling,” said Tanya.
“I have had many occasions where I am sharing my story, and I can see a sign of recognition and understanding with the person I am with.”
Tanya emphasises the importance of creating a safe space for open dialogue when approaching someone who might be struggling with their mental health. |
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“The advice I would give to everyone would be to show respect and compassion, and to reserve judgement. “It only takes a couple of minutes to make a connection.” |
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Dates to mark
On 10 September it is World Suicide Prevention Day. Learn how you can play a role in suicide prevention on Suicide Prevention Australia’s website. On 12 September many communities across NSW Health mark R U OK? Day. Looking further ahead, Mental Health Month starts in October.
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Affecting as many as one in seven Australian women, endometriosis can cause severe pelvic pain, nausea, infertility, and impact all areas of a woman’s life. The Royal Hospital for Women in the South Eastern Sydney Local Health District offers specialised, world-leading treatment for endometriosis.
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Eimear McHugh is a Clinical Nurse Specialist in the Chronic Pain Service, which accepts referrals for women requiring specialist care for endometriosis from across the state.
Eimear supports women who are dealing with a disease she is all too familiar with. “Growing up in Ireland, I mostly suffered in silence as I experienced debilitating symptoms and painful periods,” said Eimear.
Eimear had her gallbladder removed as she was advised that it was contributing to her pain. However, her pain continued for several years before she was finally diagnosed with endometriosis in 2016.
In a full circle moment, she is now supporting patients with self-management strategies to help with their pain and improve quality of life through thorough consultation, assessment and treatment plans. |
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“It’s a true privilege to support endometriosis sufferers at the very hospital where I received my diagnosis.” |
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Safeguarding futures | National Child Protection Week |
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“Looking after the wellbeing of our children and young people is an investment in our future.”
Helen Goodwin, NSW Health Chief Paediatrician and senior staff specialist at Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District |
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| Helen has been working in paediatrics since 1992 – a field that she is deeply passionate about.
“Working with children, young people and their families is such a privilege. I’ve seen children from birth through to adulthood, or in some cases, cared for them from birth until they passed away. The insights into people's lives and the memories I’ve been part of have been wonderful. I love the honesty of young children and the capacity of young people for courage and resilience,” she said. “Children are so often exposed to traumatic procedures, events and people. This can have a lasting impact on their futures,” said Helen.
“We have a responsibility to care for those who can’t protect themselves, and support their family to provide a nurturing, emotionally and physical safe childhood.” |
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This week is National Child Protection Week (1-7 September). Helen believes that when it comes to looking out for our children, everyone has a role.
“As healthcare workers it’s up to all of us to look out for children and their families, not just people working in children’s wards or paediatric services.”
“Asking about our patients’ families – such as whether there are children at home, who is looking after them, and if they're okay – can all go a long way in helping keep children safe. There are some great resources out there that can help you learn more about identifying and responding to potential child protection concerns, like this short animation on Non Accidental Injury.” (Please be aware this video contains themes that may be distressing or triggering for some viewers.)
“Reassuring and finding common ground with our patients and their families is important – especially in people who have been traumatised by our history of removing children.”
“We need to work together with families, to support them to provide the best chance for their children to thrive.” |
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As a Women’s Health and Continence Nurse, Karen Gleeson provides education and advice to women from all walks of life. Based in the Far West Local Health District, she covers a range of areas, including cervical screening, breast cancer awareness, menopause, puberty and continence. |
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“My role is extremely rewarding. I have the opportunity to make a real difference, especially for the most vulnerable women in the community who lack access to education about women’s healthcare,” said Karen. “I have met so many amazing women and it’s a privilege to have heard their inspiring life stories.”
Karen is one of many Women’s Health Nurses working with Cancer Institute NSW to boost cervical screening rates and save lives across the state.
“Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Unfortunately, most cervical cancers occur in people who have never screened or do not screen regularly,” said Karen. |
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“I have been able to increase the numbers of women completing cervical screening in my area by making myself more accessible and promoting my service. It is extremely fulfilling.” |
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NSW Alcohol and Other Drugs Workforce Strategy
The Centre for Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) is pleased to share the release of the NSW Alcohol and Other Drugs Workforce Strategy. This Strategy envisions an AOD sector that can recruit and retain a skilled, diverse workforce that reflects the communities it supports. It sets out actions to ensure the AOD workforce is engaged and well supported to deliver high-quality, person-centred interventions throughout rewarding careers.
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| Need support in managing patients with substance use? Drug and Alcohol Specialist Advisory Service (DASAS) is a free 24/7 telephone advisory service that assists all health professionals with the clinical diagnosis and management of patients who use alcohol and other drugs.
Find out more on the NSW Health Intranet. |
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Making health information easy to understand We are committed to improving the accessibility of communications and ensuring everyone can understand the information you are sharing. To support and guide you in developing accessible communication, NSW Health’s very first Accessible Communications Policy is now available. Visit the Accessibility matters online resource hub to find out how you can develop communication that everyone can understand. |
| New My Professional Development catalogue
The HETI My Professional Development (My PD) catalogue is a comprehensive resource that provides NSW Health staff with access to over 700 eLearning modules, designed to support personal, professional, and discipline-specific growth.
Whether you’re aiming to enhance your skills or meet continuing professional development requirements, My PD will offer the latest resources available in My Health Learning. Explore the catalogue on the HETI website. |
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Easy Read available for Virtual Care in NSW
The Connected Care team have developed an Easy Read on virtual care in NSW.
Developed by the Council for Intellectual Disability, Easy Read formats use large format text and pictures to present information for people who are not familiar with English, or who have low literacy or learning disability. The new resource provides accessible information on virtual care, the benefits, how to ask for virtual care and how to join a virtual appointment.
For more information contact MOH-VirtualCare@health.nsw.gov.au. |
| Recognising and responding to non-accidental injuries in children Every NSW Health worker coming into contact with a child or young person has a responsibility to protect the child’s health, safety, and wellbeing.
This short video, co-produced by the Clinical Excellence Commission and NSW Health’s Prevention and Response to Violence Abuse and Neglect, assists NSW health workers to recognise and respond to the signs of non-accidental injuries in children. It is a clear and concise resource that introduces this sensitive and complex subject. Please be aware that the content may be distressing or triggering for some people. More information on available support can be found at the bottom of this newsletter. |
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New menopause resources available
The Agency for Clinical Innovation’s Statewide Menopause Initiative is focused on improving services across NSW to help people with severe or complex menopause symptoms. This includes: - establishing four major hubs and 12 referral sites
- publication of resources to improve access to menopause care
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an online mentoring network called MenoECHO for health professionals.
Learn more about the Statewide Menopause Initiative. |
| From the Critical Intelligence Unit
The Critical Intelligence Unit (CIU) Evidence Digest highlights transformative clinical innovations.
Recent features include: - Osteoarthritis of the knee clinical care standard, AI in clinical decision support systems, immunotherapy plus chemotherapy for non‐small cell lung cancer
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AI Implementation in hospitals, telemedicine-based hospital-at-home for acute patients, and screening for iron deficiency in pregnancy
Subscribe for Wednesday morning updates or explore the CIU's living evidence table on AI in healthcare.
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Support is available if the topics covered in this edition are distressing. For immediate support please call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Every NSW Health staff member also has access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Details on how to access EAP are on your local intranet.
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We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we live and work and pay respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We also acknowledge all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff working with the NSW Government. |
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Feeling social? Follow NSW Health |
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