#WeAreNorthern

Meet Atif Khawaja, Talent Acquisition Partner, People and Culture, Northern Health.

Q. Firstly, your coffee order please?
Extra hot cappuccino with two sugars and full cream milk.

Q. Can you tell us a bit about your career.
My career is diverse. I’m a qualified electrical engineer and certified lead auditor. After earning my MBA, I worked as an HR Generalist for a multinational telecom company, managing HR functions in their technical operations and maintenance department. I moved to Australia just before the Covid-19 outbreak.

Q. What is your greatest achievement since working here?
My journey at Northern Health spans roughly two years, and recently I won the staff quarterly award in the Rising Star category. This recognition is definitely one of my proudest achievements while working here.

Q. How do you relax after a long shift?
I have two young daughters, and answering their innocent questions and having silly conversations with them helps me relax. Additionally, watching my favorite TV show after dinner with a cup of tea alongside my wife helps me unwind and prepare for the next busy day.

Q. Do you have a bucket list item? Something you would love to do.
I am a big fan of aviation and airlines, so sitting in the cockpit of the largest aircraft, the Airbus A380, is definitely on my bucket list. In terms of travel, I would love to visit the small Caribbean islands to enjoy the tropical landscape of the Atlantic Ocean and experience the scenic beauty of the Arctic Circle in Scandinavian countries, particularly Norway.

Q. Where is a favourite place you’ve travelled and why?
As a relatively new Australian, I am still exploring the country. All the beaches I’ve visited so far, mainly along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria and Bondi Beach in Sydney, are among my favorite places. Outside of Australia, I enjoy the urban lifestyle of Dubai, UAE. Visiting the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa, is an experience I will never forget.

 

Northern Health Foundation hosted their 2024 Thank You Evening at NCHER yesterday, Wednesday, 5 June, to celebrate the wonderful support of their donors and community and to say thank you.

The evening began with an introduction from Pina Di Donato, Executive Director Public Affairs and Foundation, who acknowledged the efforts of our generous supporters and donors and thanked all the guests in attendance.

This was followed by Peter McWilliam, Northern Health Foundation Board Chair, who spoke about the wonderful work being done at the Foundation saying, “I am pleased to report that the Foundation distributed $728,000 to Northern Health in 2022-23. This achievement was only possible because of the generosity of our corporate partners, donors and philanthropic support.”

“As the demand for health services in the north continues to increase, the Foundation will continue to do all it can to support Northern Health to provide outstanding health care for our community.”

Thanks to the ongoing support of the community, the Foundation has been able to continue funding life-changing equipment for major areas at Northern Health, including the Women’s and Children’s Department, where they raised $70,000 at The Great Gatsby Gala in November 2023.

Most recently, they hosted the Foundation Gala Ball at The Plaza Ballroom on Saturday, 4 May 2024 where they successfully raised over $130,000 for Cancer Services at Northern Health. Their vision to create a Cancer Wellness Centre here in the north is now one step closer, so patients can have an area where they can relax and enjoy time with their family outside of clinical spaces and time away from their treatment. While this vision is still far into the future, it is fantastic to see the tremendous response from sponsors and guests in attendance.

The Palliative Care Unit courtyard reopened in December 2023, where they hosted a ceremony to celebrate the occasion. Through the dedication of Workplace Givers, supporters and staff, this area has now been completely refurbished for family and friends to visit with their loved ones, with brand new gazebos and couches in place, a relaxing water feature and beautiful, new gardens. A big thank you to everyone for their contributions towards this project.

Melissa Grenville, Director Foundation, is excited to see what another year will bring, saying “we look forward to seeing what collectively we can achieve, and with the support of our wonderful donors we can continue to make a positive difference in the lives of families and patients here in the north.”

During the next financial year, the Foundation aspires to continue fundraising for important equipment, refurbishments, research and training while envisioning the future of Cancer Services at Northern Health. The Thank You Evening highlighted and reenergised our donors to continue supporting Northern Health Foundation in creating a healthier northern community for all. We look forward to seeing what another year will bring.

 

This week, 3 – 9 June, we celebrate Hand Therapy Week!

Hand therapy practitioners are either Occupational Therapists (OTs) or Physiotherapists, who specialise in assessing and treating upper limb injuries. At Northern Health’s Hand Therapy Department, our practitioners primarily focus on injuries of fingers, hands and forearms.

Patients in the northern catchment who visit the Hand Therapy clinic often suffer from acute traumatic hand injuries, typically resulting from workplace accidents, sports injuries or incidents at home. Hand therapy clinicians enhance patient healing and facilitate a return to function by fabricating splints, offering rehabilitative exercise programs and providing scar management advice.

For patients requiring surgery, the hand therapy team is normally involved within the first week post-surgery, providing basic wound care. In cases where the injury can be managed without surgery, the Hand Therapy team collaborates with the Plastics team to determine the most effective treatment options.

“Hand Therapy is a specialised service that works closely with the Plastics Unit, and provides a multi-disciplinary team approach to treatment for the most suitable patient-centred hand therapy care,” says Fiona Moate, Clinical Leader Hand Therapy, Northern Health.

For Simone Cariss, Acting Associate Director Occupational Therapy, Northern Health, Hand Therapy Week is about recognising and celebrating the fantastic work of our highly skilled clinicians.

“For the first time in a long time, we have both OTs and physios working within the Hand Therapy team at Northern Health. The team has embraced a lot of change this year and has been instrumental to the implementation of the new and innovative Hand Therapy Procedure Unit. Since its commencement in October 2023, the unit has seen over 180 patients, enabling patient care to be streamlined direct from surgery to therapy, minimising touch points within the organisation, and improving patient waiting times and overall patient experience,” she says.

Feel free to pop in any time this week and say hello to the friendly staff that work in the Hand Therapy Department.

Pictured in featured image (L-R): Erin Williams Grade 3 Senior Clinician, Maddy Stewart Grade 3 Senior Clinician, Fiona Moate Grade 4 Clinical Expert and Jaime Do Grade 2 Hand Therapist. 

During World War II, Dr. Edwin Cohn ingeniously adapted a cream separator machine to revolutionise medicine. His process separated whole blood into its vital components, saving lives on the battlefront; including those wounded during the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Today, we call this process Apheresis, derived from the Greek word meaning “to remove or separate a part from the whole.” Since April this year, Northern Health Cancer Services offers Apheresis as a critical service. Led by Head of Clinical Hematology, Dr. Rachel Cooke, nursing staff at the Oncology and Medical Day Unit, located at Northern Hospital Epping, have been trained to use the cutting-edge Spectra Optia Apheresis machine, pictured above.

Key Applications of Apheresis:

Plasma Exchange: Harmful autoantibodies are extracted and replaced with normal plasma. Patients’ plasma is swapped with either a donor’s or a plasma substitute.

Red Cell Exchange: This technique treats sickle cell disease by replacing abnormal sickle cells with healthy red blood cells.

Leukopheresis: Excess white blood cells are meticulously removed from circulation, especially in acute leukemia cases.

Director of Cancer Services, Associate Professor Prahlad Ho, says this ‘life saving treatment’, benefits hematology, neurology and renal patients, and negates the need for them to go to ICU or transfer to other hospitals.

Dr. Cooke adds, “We currently offer elective plasma exchange and plan to expand to red cell exchange and emergency apheresis in the future.”

Melissa Gwynne, Nurse Unit Manager, Day Oncology, shares her excitement about this expansion.

“Patients in our community no longer face the burden of traveling to other hospitals for apheresis treatments,” she says.

Pictured: Tess Roeg (kneeling), Melissa Gwynne, Rachel Cooke, Dalia Joseph, Nisha Poly and Anna O’Brien (patient).

Last week, Northern Health was delighted to warmly welcome a delegation from the renowned National Taiwan University Hospital (NTUH). The visit marked an important step in international collaboration aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery and integrating community medical resources.

The delegation, comprising 10 distinguished senior executives from NTUH, visited Northern Health as part of their initiative to develop a new facility designed to integrate hospital and community medical resources. This project aims to significantly improve the quality of medical care and address the issue of outpatient crowding.

During their visit, Northern Health had the pleasure of sharing our experiences and strengths, particularly in the realm of digital and virtual healthcare. Our team showcased various innovative practices, including our successful Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED), which has been instrumental in providing remote healthcare services.

The exchange of knowledge was incredibly enriching. We shared our expertise in virtual healthcare, while the NTUH delegates brought a wealth of ideas and insights from their own experiences. The discussions were lively and inspiring, highlighting the strengths of both our institutions in advancing medical care.

“A hospital full of humanity, care, vitality, and innovation. We appreciate your passionate reception and selfless sharing. We hope for more opportunities of exchange in the near future, and warmly welcome your visit to Taiwan and National Taiwan University Hospital,” said Tyng-Guey Wang, Vice Superintendent, Superintendent Office, National Taiwan University Hospital.

This visit reflects Northern Health’s dedication to international collaboration and our commitment to continuously improving healthcare delivery. By sharing knowledge and expertise, both Northern Health and NTUH are better equipped to meet the challenges of modern healthcare and enhance patient outcomes.

“It has been such an honour to be visited by the NTUH delegation. The exchange of ideas was stimulating. Our conversations will no doubt continue into the future so I foresee that both our communities will benefit,” says Wanda Stelmach, Chief Medical Officer, Northern Health.

We look forward to future collaborations with NTUH and other international partners as we continue to innovate and improve the healthcare landscape together.

#WeAreNorthern

Meet Fatema Tajbhai, Senior Scientist in our newest service – Anatomical Pathology.

Q: Firstly, your coffee order, Fatema?

It varies and is very mood dependent – long black or batch brew (depending on the cafe)/ soy latte/soy magic.

Q: How would you describe your role?

It is a very challenging but rewarding role. Anatomical Pathology is a new service to the Northern Hospital, only operational since 5 February 2024. Currently, I am managing the operational aspects of running the laboratory and doing all the background work to try and offer the best service we can.

Q: How did you get into this role?

I studied and worked as a medical scientist back in the UK and when I moved to Melbourne, I continued in the same line of work. When the Anatomical Pathology Service was being set up at Northern Health, I was excited to get involved and be a part of this new venture. I applied for a position and was fortunate enough to get it!

Q: Any highlights?

The last few months have felt like I’ve been on a rollercoaster! All the highs and lows that go with getting a laboratory service off the ground have not been easy, but realising that any challenges that you face, as long you have the right support and people in your corner you can achieve anything. The highlight has definitely been seeing the laboratory progress from day one to where we are now – offering an efficient service, good teamwork and a department that is finding its feet.

Q: What are some of the challenges?

The challenges have been varied from rostering to navigating the laboratory information system.

Q: What is the most rewarding part of this role?

When I see the new team getting to know each other and working well together.  Also receiving positive feedback from the clinicians!

Q: Your impressions on joining the Northern Health family?

I’m about a year in, in joining Northern Health and it has been a great experience so far.  Looking forward to seeing what the future holds for our health service and Anatomical Pathology Service.

Q: Lastly, tell us something that most people would not know about you Fatema?

I have been an Australian National Cycling Champion in my race category.

 

---

National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a significant time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. It takes place annually from 27 May to 3 June.

The theme for NRW 2024 is ‘Now More Than Ever’. Now more than ever, the work continues — in treaty making, truth-telling, understanding our history, education, and tackling racism. We need connection, respect, action, and change. Now more than ever, we need reconciliation.

Northern Health provides essential services within the traditional lands of the Woi Wurrung Wurundjeri people, covering the City of Whittlesea and the City of Hume. Additionally, it extends its care to the Taungurong Country in the Shire of Mitchell. These regions collectively form part of the Kulin nation.

The Narrun Wilip-giin (meaning “Spirit Keepers” in Woi Wurrung language) Aboriginal Support Unit plays a crucial role in supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients and their carers throughout their hospital journey. However, this essential work wouldn’t be possible without the unwavering support of every staff member involved in patient care.

Recognising the exceptional efforts of these dedicated staff members, the Narrun Wilip-giin Aboriginal Support Unit has established the Spirit Keeper Champion Appreciation Award. This award aims to honour colleagues who exemplify the following core values:

1. Going Above and Beyond: These individuals consistently demonstrate a willingness to go the extra mile, ensuring that the unique needs of Aboriginal patients are met. They exceed expectations and willingly take on additional responsibilities.

2. Supportive and Empathetic: Their interactions with patients and their families are characterised by deep empathy and compassion. During challenging times, they provide comfort and reassurance, fostering a sense of trust.

3. Genuine and Respectful: These staff members engage with Aboriginal patients authentically and respectfully. They build trusting relationships through sincere communication, acknowledging the cultural context and individual experiences.

4. Creating Culturally Safe Environments: They actively contribute to culturally safe spaces within the hospital. Aboriginal patients feel valued, respected, and free from discrimination or judgment.

5. Caring and Compassionate: Above all, their care is driven by a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those they serve. Their compassion, kindness, and concern for Aboriginal patients’ well-being shines through.

“Aboriginal health is everyone’s business,” says Karen Bryant, Senior Aboriginal Liaison Officer. “This award came about because Narrun Wilip-giin wanted to acknowledge those staff members who went over and above to provide culturally safe care, often on multiple occasions.”

To date, eight staff members have been nominated across various departments, including EMR, Legal, Nursing, and Cancer Services. They are : Cheryl Murray, Andrew Lang, Awash Prasad, Virginia Grant, Birat Sharma, Jane Delos, Simone Cariss, Angeline Llewellyn and Mia Chatz.

Awash Prasad, Director of Legal Services, was one of the recipients of this award and says “I am deeply humbled to receive the Spirit Keeper Champion Award from the Aboriginal Support Unit. I see this award as more than a reflection of my work; it is an incredible honour to be part of our collective efforts toward compassionate and culturally sensitive care.”

“Working with the Aboriginal Liaison Office (ALO) team and our Aboriginal consumers has been a profoundly enriching experience. I have learned invaluable lessons from their resilience, wisdom, and deep connection to cultural heritage. Most importantly, I have learned to listen with an open heart and mind, to respect cultural practices, and to ensure that Northern Health is positioned as a leader in our efforts toward reconciliation. To me, reconciliation is our shared journey. It is a journey of being authentic, genuine, and fostering mutual respect and collaboration.”

Cheryl Murray, Breast Care Nurse Consultant, was another of the recipients. She says, “To be awarded the Spirit Keeper award was such a lovely surprise. Working alongside Northern Health’s ALO team is always a rewarding experience. They are a hard-working team, passionate and professional to achieve positive outcomes for our Indigenous patients. I find it incredibly thought provoking, to learn about our Indigenous rich history, our shared history and culture. Reconciliation Week is a reminder of the inequities between Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander’s and the wider community. It showcases how important it is to keep moving forward to work towards to fixing historical exclusion, end discrimination and strengthen our relationship with the First Nation people.”

Pictured in featured image (from bottom left): Birat Sharma, Simone Cariss with Tya Fry, Joanne Quinn, Aboriginal Health Practitioner with Awash Prasad, Cheryl Murray with Karen Bryant, Senior Aboriginal Liaison Officer and Andrew Lang, Virginia Grant, Jane Delos

At Northern Health, we are fortunate to have staff members whose dedication goes beyond their professional duties.

One such inspiring individual is Fey Bakar, an EMR Surgery and Anaesthesia Analyst and Registered Nurse. Her passion for helping others led her to spearhead an extraordinary initiative of collecting plastic bread tags at Northern Health to fund wheelchairs for disadvantaged individuals.

Fey’s journey began three years ago, driven by her desire to make a difference in people’s lives.

“I have always found joy and a sense of fulfillment whenever I can lend a helping hand,” Fey shares.

Her role as a nurse has taught her the impact of compassion and empathy, reinforcing her commitment to this cause. As an immigrant, Fey resonates deeply with the less privileged and vulnerable, understanding the importance of community support and unity.

“My journey has highlighted the power of coming together to help those in need,” she explains.

Despite occasional challenges in collecting and storing the tags, Fey remained motivated by the joy and relief her efforts brought to those in need.

“Knowing that there would be smiles on the faces of those who received the wheelchairs was motivating and rewarding. It reinforced my belief that even minor acts of kindness can significantly impact those in need,” she adds.

Fey’s initiative has inspired many colleagues at Northern Health to participate. Together, they have diligently collected thousands of bread tags, culminating in a significant delivery to the collection centre at Bundoora.

The collected bread tags are recycled locally to raise funds for the purchase of wheelchairs for disadvantaged individuals, primarily in South Africa. This initiative, known as “Bread Tags for Wheelchairs,” turns everyday waste into life-changing mobility aids.

Impact by the numbers:

• Wheelchairs Funded: 98
• Total Recycled: 12,832 kgs of bread tags (more than 12 tonnes!)
• Current Recycling Rate: 250 kgs of bread tags per month (approximately 2,700 tags per kg)

This program provides practical assistance to individuals in need while fostering a sense of unity and compassion within the community. It is heartwarming to see how a simple act of collecting bread tags can bring about such positive change.

We encourage everyone to participate and contribute to this noble cause. Together, we can make a significant difference, one bread tag at a time.

For more information on how you can get involved, please visit Bread Tags for Wheelchairs.