Northern Health’s newest board members were on tour last week, visiting facilities across the network to gain firsthand insight into the organisation’s diverse services and exceptional care.

The comprehensive tour took the new board members to four key sites, providing them with direct exposure to the breadth of services Northern Health delivers to the community.

At Bundoora Centre, board members visited Aged Care Mental Health, Community Therapy services and participated in morning tea with staff and residents at Ian Brand Residential Aged Care. This visit provided valuable insight into Northern Health’s community-based services and residential care programs.

At Broadmeadows Hospital we focused on visited the Surgical Centre, where board members learned about recent same-day surgery improvements that have enhanced patient outcomes and operational efficiency. They also visited the Mental Health BIPU, showcasing facility upgrades and the recently enhanced therapeutic gardens that support patient wellbeing.

At Craigieburn Community Hospital, the board members toured the impressive new facility, witnessing firsthand Northern Health’s commitment to growth and expansion in response to community needs. The visit highlighted the modern infrastructure and capabilities that define the new addition to the network.

The final stop at Kilmore District Hospital showcased the organisation’s heritage in care in the outer northern. With board members visiting maternity, urgent care, and inpatient services housed and the beautiful heritage-listed bluestone building. The timing coincided with the exciting EMR Go Live implementation, demonstrating Northern Health’s commitment to modernised health care and systems.

“It was fantastic to showcase the breadth and quality of services across our network to our new board members, particularly the excellent work happening at Bundoora,” shared Johanna Hayes, Divisional Director.

The comprehensive tour program ensures board members understand the full scope of Northern Health’s operations and the dedicated staff who deliver care across the network.

Featured image L-R: Dr Michael Walsh, Board Director, Debra Bourne, Chief Executive, Adjunct Professor Alan Lilly, Board Chair, Christina Campbell, Director of Nursing/Site Operations Director, Kilmore District Hospital, and Nirasha Parsotam, Board Director, at Kilmore District Hospital.

Northern Health is leading the way in making genomic testing during pregnancy more accessible, culturally safe, and trusted by families from diverse backgrounds.

Professor Lisa Hui, Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialist at Northern Health and Professor at the University of Melbourne, has been awarded a Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) Genomics Health Futures Grant for the ImpACT-PG project (Improving Access and Community Trust in Perinatal Genomics for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Populations.)

Families from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds, particularly South Asian communities, often face barriers to accessing genomic testing during pregnancy. The ImpACT-PG project aims to address these challenges through a consumer-driven, community-centred approach.

Over the next two years, the team will gather evidence on family experiences, co-design culturally and linguistically appropriate resources, explore ethical and policy challenges, and develop a framework to monitor equity and effectiveness in perinatal genomic screening across Victoria.

The project is delivered in partnership with the University of Melbourne, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Monash University, the Multicultural Centre for Women’s Health, Safer Care Victoria, Genetic Support Network Victoria, and other community and government partners.

Northern Health serves one of the most culturally diverse communities in Victoria, with more than 160 languages spoken, and one in four babies born to women of South Asian background.

“Northern Health looks after a vibrant, culturally diverse community. It is vital that our genomic care reflects the needs and values of these families, so that all parents can make informed decisions in pregnancy,” says Professor Lisa Hui.

By focusing on South Asian families, the project will directly benefit patients and provide evidence to inform care for clinicians across Victoria. Patients will gain improved access to genomic testing, resources in their preferred language, and greater confidence in genomic care. Staff will benefit from tools, training, and a scalable model to support culturally safe communication, practice, and policy improvements.

By the end of the project, ImpACT-PG will deliver new evidence on the experiences of South Asian and CALD families, culturally tailored communication resources for families and clinicians, and a framework for equitable genomic care that can be scaled across the state.

Today is Wear It Purple Day, an annual awareness day that celebrates and supports young people in the LGBTIQA+ community. On this day, people are encouraged to wear purple as a visible sign of acceptance, diversity, and inclusion.

The day was founded in 2010 in response to the rise in teenage suicides within the LGBTIQA+ community, many of which were linked to bullying and the “lack of acceptance” of sexuality or gender identity.

This year’s theme, “Bold Voices, Bright Futures”, highlights the power of self-expression and youth advocacy. It reminds us that when LGBTIQA+ young people are encouraged to speak up and be heard, they can shape a future that is more inclusive, empowering, and hopeful.

Andrew Grey, Chair of the Rainbow Sub-Committee, said it is an important day for Northern Health to acknowledge and embrace the voices of our young LGBTIQA+ consumers to ensure that they feel safe at the health service.

“We recognise that many members of our community identify as part of the rainbow community, and we also know that they often face barriers to accessing health services and experience poorer health outcomes,” he said.

“Our goal is to demonstrate that Northern Health is committed to actively creating spaces where these voices are not only allowed but uplifted. In doing so, it helps pave the way for brighter, more equitable outcomes for young rainbow individuals.”

Lisa Shih, Occupational Therapy Allied Health Assistant & LGBTIQA+ Working Group member also highlighted the importance of the day.

“No one should ever be made to feel ashamed of who they are. Especially now, when the rights and experiences of young queer people are being challenged, it is now more important than ever to step up and show your support,” Lisa said.

“Wear it Purple Day reminds LGBTQIA+ people that our identity is something to be proud of and not hidden away. Everyone deserves a space that will love them for being them.”

Sharon Lau, TCP Allied Health Assistant says, “Growing up is hard for everyone but when you feel like you might be different or you don’t fit in, then it can be even harder. When people see their identities represented, there’s a sense of unity and community. That’s why Wear It Purple Day is important for me, everyone should feel safe to be who they are, to know that there is a strong and proud community there for them.”

Featured image: Electra Ulrich and Andrew Grey.

International Overdose Awareness Day, observed on 31 August, is a powerful reminder of the lives behind the statistics and the urgent need for education, support, and prevention. In Victoria, the Emerging Drugs Network of Australia – Victoria (EDNAV) is playing a crucial role in this effort.

As a state-wide early warning system, EDNAV brings together toxicologists, pharmacists, emergency physicians, forensic labs and researchers to monitor the emergence of novel psychoactive substances and track drug trends across 18 metropolitan and regional health services. By analysing and sharing toxicological insights, the network provides vital information to health authorities and frontline providers – helping to raise awareness, guide responses, and ultimately reduce harm in the community.

The EDNAV project was introduced to the Northern Health Emergency Department in 2020 as part of our ongoing efforts to protect our community from harm associated with illicit drugs, in particular Novel Psychoactive Substances.

Headed by Associate Professor Joe Rotella, the initiative has become an integral part of our proactive approach to managing drug related harms.

“EDNAV encompasses all three of the Northern values of Safe, Kind and Together” says A/Prof Rotella.

“We have been able to improve people’s experience of care by providing them with information that will empower them to make better informed choices, thereby being safe and kind. To work with other hospital networks to improve our awareness of the substances that are out there and compose harm to consumers who may be exposed to these without their knowledge, is part of being together and working towards the ideals of consumer-centered care,” he adds.

ED Research Nurses, Aisling Kiely and Yasmin Sungkar, conduct patient screening and weekly reviews to uphold high standards of care and ensure the accuracy and integrity of data is maintained.

Since the introduction of EDNAV to Northern Health, 379 cases have been analysed, with 93 returning positive for NPS. Patients who return positive results are contacted where possible to inform them of their results and to provide guidance on appropriate next steps.

Northern Health’s involvement in the EDNAV project enhances the safety of our patients and local community. The work also reinforces our role as a proactive partner in a broader statewide public health response to a complex and ever evolving challenge.

Pictured above: Yasmin Sungkar and Aisling Kiely channel the spirit of Breaking Bad, the crime drama centered around the world of illicit drugs.

Communication is more than just talking. It’s how we use our voices, bodies, behaviours, and minds to share what’s inside us.

Now, imagine waking up one day unable to speak. You try to write, but the words are gone. You attempt to gesture, but your body won’t cooperate. Even when you try to draw, all that comes out is a meaningless squiggle.

This might sound extreme, but it’s the daily reality for tens of thousands of Australians living with communication disorders. Communication is a fundamental human right – yet it’s something many of us take for granted.

Who are speech pathologists?
Speech pathologists are allied health professionals who specialise in all aspects of communication. At Northern Health, our Speech Pathology Department includes more than 40 speech pathologists working across all four campuses, supporting children and adults in acute, rehabilitation, community, and mental health settings.

Their work covers:

• Speech – how we form sounds and articulate words

• Voice – the sounds we produce to speak

• Language – how our brain understands and organises words

• Literacy – how we read and write

• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) – other ways of communicating when speech is not possible

“This year’s theme Impact Through Communication, highlights the powerful, far-reaching impact communication has on every part of life and the vital role speech pathologists play in making that possible,” says Catherine Moller, Speech Pathologist, Mental Health, Northern Health.

Each day focuses on a key theme:

• Day 1: Connection – Building and sustaining relationships through communication

• Day 2: Confidence – Helping people express themselves clearly and proudly

• Day 3: Inclusion – Advocating for accessible, diverse communication for everyone

• Day 4: Empowerment – Supporting individuals to self-advocate and voice their needs

• Day 5: Opportunity – Creating pathways in education, work, and community life

• Day 6: Wellbeing – Exploring the link between communication and emotional, mental, and social health

• Day 7: Independence – Fostering autonomy and self-expression throughout life

“Each theme reflects the depth and diversity of the profession, showcasing how speech pathologists make a lasting impact every day. This Speech Pathology Week, we take a moment to reflect on how communication shapes your life and what it means when that ability is lost,” adds Ms Moller.

Pictured in featured image: The Speech Pathology team at the Northern Hospital Epping. 

Tuesday, 26 August, will mark a historic milestone for Kilmore District Hospital with the official launch of its Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system. This digital transformation follows months of stakeholder engagement and weeks of comprehensive super user and end-user training, ensuring all employees are equipped to deliver safer, more efficient, and coordinated care.

The EMR implementation will extend across multiple areas of service delivery, including:

• Urgent Care Centre (adapted from the Emergency solution)
• Inpatient services
• Theatre and anaesthetics
• Maternity

Kilmore District Hospital provides acute and aged care services to the Mitchell Shire and surrounding regions, as a comprehensive healthcare facility. Kilmore District Hospital offers an extensive range of services including an urgent care centre, infusion clinic, inpatient and maternity services, operating theatres, palliative medicine, aged care, district nursing, radiology, pathology, outpatients, and allied health services.

The introduction of the EMR builds on this strong foundation, positioning Kilmore District Hospital at the forefront of modern healthcare delivery in Victoria.

“The successful implementation of the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system at Kilmore District Hospital marks a significant milestone in the ongoing journey toward enhanced patient care and streamlined clinical operations. By adopting the EMR, Kilmore District Hospital now aligns seamlessly with Northern Health, further cementing the vision of ‘one patient, one integrated record’ across the region. This achievement ensures that healthcare professionals have timely access to comprehensive, accurate health information, supporting safer, more effective care for every patient. Congratulations to the EMR project team, Clinical Informatics, Digital Health Training, and all KDH staff for their commitment, collaboration, and dedication in making this transformation a reality. Your collective efforts set a new standard for integrated digital healthcare and make a positive difference in the lives of the communities we serve,” says Terri Fiorenza, Director of EMR.

Benefits for Staff and Patients

For Staff

• Real-time access to patient information across Northern Health, reducing duplication and delays.
• Improved clinical documentation through standardised digital workflows.
• Enhanced patient safety with built-in alerts and decision support.
• Greater efficiency, allowing more time for direct patient care.
• Strengthened collaboration between doctors, nurses, and allied health teams via a single integrated system.

For Patients

• Safer, more consistent care with allergies, medications, and medical histories captured electronically ensuring a consistent and complete record.
• Continuity of care across urgent, surgical, maternity, and inpatient settings and across health care facilities.
• A streamlined experience, reducing repetitive history-taking and improving access to results.
• Future-focused digital health with the foundations in place for patient portals and telehealth integration.

The EMR go-live represents more than a technology upgrade; it is a significant step forward in delivering patient-centered, connected, and high-quality healthcare. By transitioning from paper-based processes to an integrated digital record, Kilmore District Hospital joins the broader Northern Health network in strengthening care delivery for its communities.

This achievement is the result of collaboration across clinical teams, ICT specialists, leadership, and frontline staff, all working together to ensure a smooth transition.

“We’re excited to announce the rollout of Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) across Kilmore District Hospital. This transition from paper to electronic systems and processes will streamline clinical workflows, reduce administration, and enhance the accuracy and accessibility of our patients’ information. For employees, it means more time for direct patient care and better support for clinical decision-making. For our patients, it ensures safer and more coordinated care. Thank you to everyone involved in making this milestone possible, especially the EMR team – it is your commitment that is shaping the future of healthcare provision to our community at Kilmore District Hospital,” says Christina Campbell, Director of Nursing / Operations Director, Kilmore District Hospital, Division of Community Hospitals.

Pictured in featured image: Christina Campbell, Director of Nursing at Kilmore District Hospital, is shown a demonstration of the new EMR theatre handover process by Perioperative Nurse Super User.

#WeAreNorthern

Meet Caroline Walters, Enrolled Nurse, Dianella Hostel.

 

Q: First, let’s start with your coffee order?

A: I love a Singapore breakfast tea.

 

Q: Tell us about your journey at Kilmore District Hospital (KDH), specifically Dianella Hostel? 

A: I started at KDH in August 2014, and my current role is an Enrolled Nurse level 3 at Dianella Hostel. I have an awesome job working with a great team to ensure excellent care of our elderly. I often step in to the team leader role which gives me lots of opportunities to make Dianella the wonderful place it is!

It’s a privilege every day to be part of the Dianella family.

 

Q: What is the best part of working at Dianella Hostel?

A: The best part of working at Dianella Hostel is being able to talk with so many interesting people from the elderly and their families to our wonderful staff, including our medical health professionals.

 

Q: What does a day in your job look like?

A: A day in my job is always busy and mainly entails ensuring our residents and their lovely families receive all the great nursing care they deserve. There’s lots of behind the scenes work our nurses and healthcare workers do to ensure the safety and happiness of our residents every day!

 

Q: If you weren’t in your current role, what would you have been instead?

A: I started out straight after school in banking but always wanted to be a nurse, so I’m right where I want to be!

 

Q: Tell us one thing not many people know about you.

A: Something not everyone knows about me: I have had lots of success with breeding horses and even hand reared a two-day old baby named “Maisey” after her mummy passed away, until she was 10 months old!

I had to get up overnight every two hours to feed her with a bottle just like a newborn then start work at 7 am. I was tired, but it was so rewarding seeing her grow up to be happy and healthy.

 

Q: Sweet or savoury?

A: Sweet …. I’m a hopeless chocolate lover!

 

Q: Mountain or beach? Why?

A: Mountain, I love the ever-changing environment, and my second home is Tasmania when I’m not busy at work.

 

Q: What advice you’d like to give to your younger self?

A: I really wouldn’t change a thing; I have a wonderful life surrounded by lots of awesome people!

From Monday 18 August to Friday 22 August, Northern Health will join colleagues across Australia in celebrating Health Information Management Awareness Week.

This year’s theme, “Our Identity, Our Impact: Demonstrating Our Value,” highlights the shared professional identity of Health Information Managers (HIMs) and the vital role they play in delivering safe, high-quality care.

At Northern Health, our Health Information Services (HIS) Program spans a wide range of critical areas, including:

• Clinical coding (NWAU), statutory reporting, and data governance
• Digital health and health records management, including iPM and CPF
• Clinical documentation improvement and privacy
• Administrative workforce management, supporting ward clerks, ED & VVED clerks, Hospital Reception, and Revenue services
• Specialty areas, including Mental Health

We also have HIM professionals embedded across Digital Health, EMR, GSD, and Medicolegal Teams.

These experts ensure that health data is accurate, secure, accessible, and meaningful. The workflows and systems they manage form the foundation for safe care, informed decision-making, and operational excellence across our health service.

Odette Taylor, Health Information Services Director, Northern Health says, “This dedicated week is an opportunity to recognise, celebrate, and raise awareness of the HIM profession. We encourage our HIMs to amplify their voice, showcase their expertise, and highlight the breadth of their contribution to patient care and organisational success. HIM professionals at Northern Health make an impact every day, and we thank them for their dedication and expertise. There is access to HIS HIMs across every Northern Health site, and we now have a HIM representative on each of the NSQHS Clinical Improvement Committees (CICs), so please reach out!”

“As the Chief Medical Officer at Northern Health, I deeply value the pivotal role Health Information Managers (HIMs) play in supporting clinical leadership and operational excellence. Their expertise in ensuring the accuracy, accessibility, and integrity of health data empowers informed decision-making at every level. HIMs are instrumental in helping us demonstrate our impact, both financial and clinical, and uphold our standards. We thank them for their tireless efforts,” comments Prahlad Ho, CMO, Northern Health.

“I’d like to take a moment to acknowledge the work the Health Information Managers and their teams do across our Health Service as we celebrate Health Information Management Awareness Week. The 2025 theme, Our Identity, Our Impact: Demonstrating Our Value, reflects the critical contribution HIMs make in enabling accurate reporting, compliance, and financial sustainability,” adds Basil Ireland, CFO, Northern Health.

Across the week, the HIS Program will:

• Host delegates from Saudi Arabia to showcase our robust Coding and Casemix Program
• Collaborate with the CareSync Project Team from the Department of Health as we prepare for the go-live in September

“Your work may happen behind the scenes, but it’s absolutely essential. From keeping patient records accurate and secure, to helping guide better decisions across the health service — you make a real difference, every day. Thank you for your dedication, your attention to detail, and the vital role you play in supporting quality care. Happy Health Information Management Week!” says Linda Romano, Chief Operating Officer, Northern Health.

Pictured in featured image (L-R): Claire Poulter Associate Director HIS – ABF & Reporting, Odette Taylor, Health Information Services Director and David Mangano Associate Director HIS – Healthcare Records.