On 8 August 2023, Northern Health proudly launched Visiting Hours, a series of podcasts where listeners are invited beyond the frontline to learn about the inspiring lives, outstanding work and personal triumphs of our Northern Health family. These podcasts also serve as an opportunity to learn about the lives, work and dreams of our wonderful staff and be part of the touching narratives that remind us of the unwavering dedication and compassion of these amazing individuals that call Northern Health, home.

Join us and tune in as we stroll down memory lane, revisiting the highlights from Season 1.

Episode 01 – Senior Aboriginal Liaison Officer, Karen Bryant chatted about visits to Country, the importance of family and her divisive choice in pizza topping that’s outraged some of her friends.

Episode 02 – Associate Professor Joe Rotella, an emergency department physician and clinical toxicologist heading up Northern Health’s SPECTRE Unit, revealed his motivation to help people, his passion for sharing information and why teleportation would be his ‘go to‘ superpower.

Episode 03 –Professor Don Campbell, Northern Health’s Divisional Director of Hospital Without Walls spoke about health service innovation, research trials and how an ironing board, a football match and a players reaction has led to some amazing encounters in Alice Springs.

Episode 04 – Tracey Webster OAM, Director of Clinical Leadership, Effectiveness & Outcomes (CLEO) spoke about the success of Northern Health’s Digital Pathways program, service to the community and how Crocodile Dundee changed her life forever.

Episode 05 – Breast Care Nurse Consultant Cheryl Murray shared her insights on helping patients navigate life-changing diagnoses, her advice to new nurses just starting out, and reveals the playlist that pumps her up to take her opponents down.

Episode 06 – Medical Unit 5, Doctor Vinita Rane shared her experiences on the collaborative care for patients, the importance of selfcare for clinical staff, and how enabling people to share their stories is such a powerful tool for healing.

Episode 07 – Jason Amos, Northern Health’s Manager of Emergency Management spoke about his experiences as a firefighter, his family’s routine as they deal with a rare form of epilepsy, and how a sweet mobile phone plan prompted a relationship status update.

Episode 08 – Leanne Murphy, a Northern Health Consumer Representative shared her insights on self-advocacy, the lessons learnt on a pilgrimage through Spain and the meaning of life. We also released a bonus ‘Extended Hours’ episode, where Leanne spoke in-depth about her birthing trauma, her healing journey, and how the overall experience added so much depth to her triumphant story.

Episode 09 – Danielle Cook, Northern Health’s Neonatal Nurse Practitioner spoke about the importance of compassion in clinical excellence, her love of baking and how the toss of a coin led her on a path she never imagined.

Episode 10 – Adjunct Professor Anthony Gust, Northern Health’s Executive Director of Digital Health shared his insights on the virtual space, his fascination with historical adventure, and how three circles and some thought can lead you to your dream job.

Season Finale – in the final episode, we had the pleasure of hosting a special guest, Siva Sivarajah, Northern Health’s Chief Executive. Siva shared the plans for Northern Health’s expansion over the next few years, to better serve our community.  He also spoke about studying in London, his love of cricket, and how a magnifying glass might just help keep you from going hungry.

On 3 November, ‘Visiting Hours’ was listed on the Great Australian Pods by Chery Gladman.

Northern Health’s content producer and the driving force behind the podcast, Steve Carnell said, “I’m so thrilled that Visiting Hours seems to resonate with so many people, and the best is yet to come.”

As we reflect on the remarkable journey of Season 1, we take this moment to thank our listeners for each and every listen, like and share. It brings us immense joy to share stories that matter, inspiring conversations about health, wellbeing, and all the amazing work happening at Northern Health.

Stay tuned for an exciting lineup of brand new episodes, set to kick off in February 2024!

With contributions from its dedicated patrons, Northern Health Foundation was delighted to re-open the outdoor courtyard of its Palliative Care Unit at Northern Hospital Epping on Thursday, 7 December.

With the sun shining overhead, patrons and their special guests joined with members of Northern Health Foundation Board, management team, staff and patients for a special afternoon tea to officially re-open the gardens after having received an extensive make-over.

Northern Health engineering and maintenance teams worked tirelessly over the past months to complete the project in time for the launch. The project included some structural works, the installation of undercover family entertainment areas, complete with outdoor sofas and dining table.

The entertainment area, which was contributed by patron Josie Minniti OAM and her fundraising network, provides a comfortable space for patients to gather with their loved ones, share meals together, or commemorate special occasions. Josie has been a long-time supporter of Northern Health’s Cancer Services.

In a special corner of the gardens, affectionally named ‘Kilmore Corner’ in recognition of the contribution of patron Bev Carman and her fundraising efforts which center around the Kilmore community, stands a beautiful water feature surrounded by lush plants and decorative wall features. This space provides a tranquil, respite area for patients and family members wanting some quiet, reflective time.

     
The rest of the gardens were funded through a financial grant from Dry July Foundation, after staff gathered to fundraise for the cause in 2022.

Executive Director of Public Affairs and Foundation at Northern Health, Ms Pina Di Donato is thrilled with the outcome.

“It was a privilege to be involved in such a special project alongside Foundation patrons, and Northern Health colleagues. I take this opportunity to thank everyone involved in creating this beautiful space for our patients and their families”, said Ms Di Donato.

Bev Carman was overjoyed and emotional seeing her contribution come to life saying, “it’s very rewarding to see the finished result and know that it will bring joy to patients in the Palliative Care Unit.”

Josie Minniti OAM was equally moved when seeing the gardens. “It was important for me to bring my family and supporters to see the difference our fundraising makes to Northern Health. It has been such a worthwhile project to be involved in”, said Mrs. Minniti.

Northern Health Foundation is proud to partner with Northern Health to deliver projects which can significantly enhance patient experience. The Palliative Care Unit gardens at Northern Hospital Epping are the first of many projects to come.

Featured image L-R: Melissa Grenville (Foundation Director), Pina Di Donato (Executive Director of Public Affairs and Foundation), Josie Minniti OAM, Rino Minniti, Peter McWilliams (Board Chair), Kerry McWilliams, Bev Carman (Patron).

As we begin a new year, we asked our senior executives to reflect on the year that was, tell us what made them most proud and what their vision is for 2024.

“2023 was a busy year!” says Wanda Stelmach, Chief Medical Officer. “I am really proud of all of my teams as they stepped up to the challenges of Electronic Medical Records (EMR) and of the amalgamation of Kilmore District Health and Northern Health while at the same time ensuring our patients remained safe and staff felt supported.  Even as Pharmacy, Pathology and Radiology services expanded exponentially, the teams did not miss a beat. Library too has starred as it supported 11,389 physical library visits and over 3 million eResource sessions!”

Associate Professor, Jason Cirone, Chief Allied Health Officer, says, “2023 was a year of significant change.” What he was most proud of, is how staff were able to progress through this change and “not lose focus on patient safety and excellence in care.”

Finance Director, Basil Ireland, says he was “most proud of the resilience and teamwork shown by the finance directorate in the face of a lot of service growth and change.”

Belinda Scott, Executive Director, Mental Health, spoke with pride of how in the first 12 months of operation, “we were able to increase the number of consumers treated, the time spent with consumers in the community and improve the quality of life for consumers in areas that were meaningful to them.” Overall, she was proud of the Mental Health team, “for their commitment to consumer care in 2023.”

Associate Professor Anthony Gust, Executive Director, Digital Health, was most proud in 2023 of the ‘Northern Health way’. He describes this as, “being innovative, embracing change and looking to the future”. Says Anthony, “This was underpinned by the Year of Together where we continued to look after patients and each other.”

Debra Bourne, Chief Operating Officer, spoke of, “The ongoing commitment and enthusiasm from all staff which continues to be so palpable and evident in times of change.”

Yet it is the patient stories that left the biggest impression on Debra. She spoke of a gentleman she met at our recent memorial service, who told her, that there were very few options left for treatment for his cancer. Yet when he died, he said, he would do so knowing that the doctors and nurse had fought so hard for him and he was so grateful for being able to be part of our new cancer trials.

Pina Di Donato, Executive Director, Public Affairs and Northern Health Foundation, said how proud she was of the hard work of her teams. She said, “however if I have to single out a few things, they would have to be our new podcast (Visiting Hours), the Foundation’s first gala ball which was held last May, and each and every one of our volunteers who turn up every day with huge smiles and a willingness to help wherever they can.”

So what of the future?

Wanda is looking forward to an exciting 2024.  “Education, Learning Management System (LMS), Library and Research are planning innovative ways to support our Engaged Learners and Inspired Researchers. Pharmacy, Northern Imaging Victoria and Northern Pathology Victoria are focusing on safe delivery of services while supporting multi-disciplinary teamwork to provide effective, well-coordinated healthcare.  Medical Workforce is supporting an increasingly diverse cohort of junior and senior doctors.”

“For all of us the significant changes that Northern Health’s growth has created, promise a future that is full of opportunities! Roll on 2024! “says Wanda.

Jason says, “A key aim for 2024 is to facilitate working together in truly multidisciplinary ways, to ensure patients receive effective, well-coordinated healthcare.”

Basil is keen, “The finance directorate team, continue on their path as trusted advisors to the business and resources for the business.”

Says Belinda, “My vision for 2024 is to deliver services to our consumers and to invest in our staff. She is particularly excited about “the development of the Northern Health Professional Development Unit so that staff have a fulfilling career.”

Anthony foresees, Northern Health continuing to work to change healthcare in three areas, “Models of care, funding and the digital landscape.  This will be underpinned by the Year of being Kind to each other and our patients.”

Says Debra, “Aside from not ever replicating the last four days of eating and drinking (well maybe not until next Christmas) I will continue to support and grow with the whole team here at Northern Health.”

“To find ways to bring joy to the workplace and support our unique ability to innovate and place the patient/consumer at the centre of all that we do.”

Pina says, “We will promote the excellent work of the health service and grow our fundraising income through corporate partnerships so we can continue reinvesting in projects around our campuses.”  In addition, “we will be upgrading the Northern Health website and intranet. And of course, there will be another gala ball to plan!”

Roll on 2024!

#WeAreNorthern

Meet Kerrin Camen, Clinical Nurse Specialist, GOT. Kerrin celebrated an amazing 40 years of dedicated service at Northern Health. Today, we deep dive into her career which spans four decades.

Q: What is your coffee order?

A: I actually don’t drink coffee but l drink weak black tea and will until the cows come home! As l work in the operating theatre l don’t get much of a chance to walk down to the cafe, but if l did l would treat myself to a lovely hot chocolate.

Q: How does it feel to reach 40 years of service?

A: On one hand l feel really quite proud that l have spent 40 years in the same job but on the other hand, it’s a bit embarrassing because it means l am very boring and haven’t been very adventurous with my career. The truth is, l feel l got the right job, right from the start!

When l was offered the position in theatre not long after finishing my training, they wanted me to commit to it for around a year and then l would get back to the wards to nurse. I started a couple of weeks before l got married but now, four decades later, l am a grandmother and have just celebrated my 40^th wedding anniversary. Needless to say, l have no plans to return to the wards!

Q: Tell me about your career progression at Northern Health

A: I have worked in every area of theatre but l predominantly work as an anaesthetic nurse now and as far as career progression goes, l have never entertained any ideas of leadership or management.  I much prefer being part of the team to leading it.

Q: What changes have you seen in healthcare over four decades

A: Of course, working in the same job for 40 years, I have seen too many changes and developments to mention. Surgery and anaesthesia were comparatively simple in the early 80’s, but over time I have borne witness to significant advances in surgical techniques, anaesthesia, medications, patient monitoring, safety standards, sterilisation methods and the development of radiological assisted procedures, ultrasound imaging and proliferation of endoscopic and laparoscopic surgery. Career structuring and remuneration for the nursing profession has also been significant over this time and as for the IT perspective, I’ve seen the introduction of computers, data collection, scanning and tracking and most recently of course EMR.

From my start in a humble three theatre department at PANCH (Preston & Northcote Community Hospital) my workplace over time has become an extremely busy and dynamic 10 theatre complex here at the Northern Hospital Epping. Regardless of the changes I have described over my career, I have always ‘put myself in the patients’ shoes’ and whether they are having a brief simple procedure or life impacting surgery, I strive to make their operating theatre experience as comfortable and gentle as possible. It might be just another day for me at my work, but it’s their big day when they come to us for surgery and l try to never lose sight of this.

Q: What is something people may not know about you?

A: One thing that most of my current colleagues may not know about me is that I was part of a volunteer surgical team which travelled to the Philippines over 20 years ago now. The experience remains one of the highlights of my career and I felt very privileged to play a part in transforming the faces of 59 children and young adults who were born with and were still living with cleft lips.

We worked so hard in the six days of operating time made available to us, utilising just the one theatre but with two operating tables we undertook two procedures concurrently. The days were long, humid and tiring but the teamwork and comradery was genuine, the patients and their families were immensely grateful and the ‘Helping Children Smile’ mission was a huge success. It certainly gave me a new appreciation for my Australian workplace, privileged working conditions and it reinforced my admiration for our wonderful healthcare system.

Summer has arrived in Victoria, which also means the arrival of bushfire season.

Australia has experienced record-breaking dry conditions and warmer than average temperatures during early spring, with hot and dry conditions expected to persist into the new year for many locations.

Abundant vegetation growth supported by previous La Niña rainfall will continue to dry throughout summer, increasing the flammability of fuel loads.  Rainfall over winter and spring has been significantly lower which means above-average fire potential can be expected in eastern, western and central Victoria.

In western and central Victoria, a very dry winter and spring has led to significant rainfall deficits and very low soil moisture. Much of this is evident in terms of above-average fuel availability in dry forests, woodlands and heathlands which means above average fire potential is expected in these areas through summer.

Jason Amos, Manager, Emergency Management, encourages all staff and their families to download the VicEmergency app and store the VicEmergency phone number – 1800 226 226 – in their phone.

“If you live in a bushfire prone area, make sure you prepare your property for bushfire,” he said.

“If you live next to grassland and a grassfire starts, walk at least two streets back from the fire. If you live two or three streets away from grassland and a grassfire starts, stay where you are – grassfires are unlikely to spread into built-up areas.”

To prepare a property for a bushfire, the CFA urges the following steps:

• Mowing lawn and clearing gutters – property maintenance throughout the fire season is key
• Prune back overhanging tree branches and keep shrubs under trees short
• Move wood piles away from the home during the warmer months
• Remove dry grass, leaves or twigs from around the house and garden
• Water lawn to help slow a fire down
• Bring door mats inside the house. Removing dog beds, rubbish and outdoor furniture is also important

It is vital to understand and monitor the Fire Danger Rating – a scale that forecasts how dangerous a fire would be if one stared. They are forecast four days in advance, using Bureau of Meteorology weather data and other environmental conditions such as fuel loads.

Northern Health staff who undertake home visits as part of their duties, must complete the CFA’s Bushfire Safety for Workers eLearning module.

For more information on how to stay safe during bushfire season, please click here.

One of the very important jobs that members of the Executive team do at this time of the year is to judge the Christmas Decorating Competition.

Inundated with entries and enthusiasm, the judging road trip, consisting of Michelle Fenwick, Basil Ireland, Pina Di Donato, with special appearances by Debra Bourne, Jason Cirone, Belinda Scott and Director of Public Affairs, Emma Cutajar, was ‘jolly green to go’.

Zipping along Cooper Street to number 230, judges were greeted with an abundance of tinsel, baubles, and good cheer. Teams went to great lengths to impress judges with their dance moves, printed t-shirts, creative visual displays, and the occasional chocolate bribe. From the elegant and beautiful to the quirky and intricately creative, the judges were in complete awe of staff efforts.

But these judges couldn’t be bought, although they very much appreciated the chocolates! Back to Northern Hospital Epping, and with so many entries, the team was only able to visit half of them on that day. Completely blown away by the quality of the entries, the competition was fiercely competitive.

Sustainability was a key feature with many recycled and reusable goods being repurposed into decorations. The Grinch was a popular theme among staff this year, something some of the judges could relate to. Other notable themes were snowflakes, gingerbread, winter wonderland, and Santa’s workshop. Northern Health’s values, safe, kind, together also featured in some displays.

The road trip zoomed (safely) down the freeway to arrive at Kilmore District Hospital where the Food Services Department, the Enviro Team and Outpatients showcased their spectacular displays. Special mention to the District Nursing team and the Education team, who had even gone to the effort of superimposing Jennifer Gilham’s face on their Santa display. A repurposed bathtub was crafted into a sleigh, complete with reindeer by the Enviro team, proving why they are masters at their craft.

Back down the highway, it was Craigieburn’s turn to shine with a beautiful display at reception, captivating patients, and visitors with their multifaceted decorations.

A new week brought another round of judging. The day started back at Northern Hospital Epping, for the remaining entries. With so much still to see, judges were delighted once again with the quality of what was on show. Playing to their strengths, the Digital Health Education team’s digital fireplace was a mesmerising feature worthy of a special mention.

Aligning with the staff barbecue, the road trip headed to Bundoora campus. Previous winners, Ward One, did not disappoint with their stunning display, while over at Ian Brand Residential Care, residents captured the hearts of our judges as they proudly presented their handmade decorations, posing for photos as their fellow residents sang Christmas Carols in the background.

It was then time for Broadmeadows Hospital to impress the judges. Beautiful displays all around made it increasingly challenging for judges to separate the entries. Small teams decorated their spaces beautifully, reflective of their team culture with Unit One and the Surgical Team outdoing themselves once again.

Last, but certainly not least, judges journeyed to the Northern Community Care Unit in Preston. Here they were treated to a beautiful array of lovingly handmade decorations, with a Christmasy atmosphere and space for residents and staff to enjoy the festive season.

Overall, the standards were extremely high with over 50 entries.  Judges were impressed with the level of creativity, care and teamwork that had gone into the decorating. Staff worked on their days off, and during breaks to ensure patient care was prioritized. Many were first time entrants, while others involved patients and residents in the crafting of decorations. Judges would like to thank everyone for making Northern Health’s campuses look so festive and cheerful over the past few weeks.

Find out who the winners are in the video below.

 

Congratulations to all of our winners!

You will receive an email next week about how you will receive your prizes.

Wishing all of our hardworking staff and volunteers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

As we bid farewell to another remarkable year, we would like to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared with our vibrant online community. From heart-warming stories to health tips, memorable visits from prominent figures and outstanding achievements by our Northern Health staff, let’s relive the best-performing social media posts that made 2023 truly special!

1.VIP Visits, EMR and Better Connected Care!

The visits from the Premier of Victoria, Dan Andrews in February, to announce the completion of the new acute mental health building, followed by the Minister for Health, Mary-Anne Thomas MP’s visit to highlight the Maternity in the Home and Medical Obstetrics at Home Programs, surely sparked a media frenzy!

Subsequently, after meticulous planning over the past two years, the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) seamlessly went live across all operational sites. Then, in November, we celebrated a historic milestone with the amalgamation of Kilmore District Health and Northern Health, to provide a Better Connected Care to our communities.

2. Heart-warming patient stories: Tales of triumph!

Patient stories took the spotlight on our social platforms, ranging from inspiring tales of recovery to heart-warming acts of gratitude, including special features on Valentine’s Day and NAIDOC Week babies. Emotive storytelling, coupled with impactful visuals, highlighted the resilience and strength found within our healthcare family. 2023 also brought us a bundle of joy times three – the triplets Ibrahim, Amir and Maria! In a rare and heart-warming occurrence, our maternity ward celebrated the birth of the adorable triplets. Their journey, documented through a series of posts, melted hearts and brought joy to all of our 2K followers – a milestone which we celebrated in November! Yay!

3. Northern Health stars: Staff nominations and awards! 

Northern Health stands as a testament to exceptional dedication and achievements, with numerous staff members earning well-deserved recognition and accolades for their outstanding contributions. Notable individuals such as Tracey Wyllie, Dr. Amanda Baric, Dr. Joe Rotella, Eleanor Johnson, Professor Don Campbell and many others have been acknowledged for their remarkable work. Furthermore, commendation is extended to collaborative efforts, such as the Mental Health Division Drive Safe Program, recognized for impactful initiatives. The Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (Paediatric Service) celebrated a triumph by winning the Victorian Public Healthcare Award for their innovative contributions to healthcare.

In August 2023, the very first episode of Visiting Hours premiered! Breaking new ground, Northern Health launched its very own podcast, delving into health topics, expert interviews, and community stories. Each episode sparked conversations and garnered a growing listener base eager for insightful discussions.

As we close the social media chapter of 2023, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our online community for the likes, shares, comments, and, most importantly, the sense of connection and support. Here’s to another year of health, compassion, and thriving online engagement!

#NorthernHealthSocialWrapUp #YearInReview #HealthcareHeroes

For the sixth consecutive year, ISS Facility Services has spread Christmas magic and joy to the Children’s Ward, generously presenting gifts donated by our local community.

Snez Poposka, Facilities Service Manager at ISS, initiated the Christmas Appeal in 2017 with the aim of bringing smiles to children’s faces during their hospital stay throughout the Christmas and New Year period.

The concept originated six years ago when Ms Poposka, a mother herself, empathised with the idea of sick children spending Christmas in a hospital bed instead of with their families. Determined not to let any child miss out on the festive joy, the annual donation drive has grown, reaching over 500 gifts donated to the children at Northern Hospital Epping.

These heartfelt gifts, surpassing 100 each year, are contributed by the compassionate staff at ISS, Northern Health and the local community. Witnessing the joy on a sick child’s face upon receiving a game or toy is a special reward for Ms Poposka.

“The collaboration between ISS and Northern Health staff, alongside the support from the Northern Health Foundation, has successfully brought this heart-warming initiative to life,” she said.

The donated gifts include soft toys, colouring books, puzzles and games, showcasing the kindness and generosity of the community. ISS recently delivered these gifts, and the colourful, wrapped presents brought smiles not only to the children, but also to their families.

Ms. Poposka expressed her deep gratitude to all the ISS and Northern Health staff, as well as the Northern Health Foundation, for their unwavering support and generosity throughout the years.

“This collaborative effort has truly made a positive impact on the community and exemplifies the spirit of giving back during the holiday season,” she said.

Alecia Caddy, NUM, Children’s Ward, Northern Hospital, Epping, said, “Christmas and the Holiday Season is such a magical and fun time for many children and to be spending part of that time in hospital away from their family and friends can be quite challenging. We know there are many choices when it comes to donating and we are truly grateful that the ISS team chose to donate to the children on Ward 2. Your support means the world to us! Without it, we would not be able to have the impact we do on our community – thank you.”

Pictured in featured image: Children’s Ward staff and patient with Snez Poposka, Facilities Services Manager, ISS and Saj Amerasinghe, Key Account Manager, ISS.