Today, we bid farewell to our esteemed Chief Executive, Siva Sivarajah. As Northern Health’s inspiring leader for nearly a decade, Siva’s departure marks a moment of pride and reflection not only for us, but for the broader Victorian health community.

Siva’s journey at Northern Health has been nothing short of extraordinary. Since joining us in 2015, and under his visionary leadership, Northern Health has transformed from a modest community hospital, into a major healthcare service, providing excellence and cutting-edge innovation. His unwavering commitment and strategic foresight have taken Northern Health to new heights, setting a benchmark for healthcare excellence across the state.

As Siva embarks on his new role as the inaugural Chief Executive of ‘Hospitals Victoria’, we celebrate a legacy built on dedication, integrity, and truly remarkable achievements. His time at Northern Health has been defined by significant milestones – from tripling our revenue and doubling our staffing levels, to overseeing transformative redevelopment projects that have enhanced care for our diverse community in the north.

During his final week, we had the privilege of sitting down with him to reflect on his extraordinary journey, his enduring legacy, and of course, couldn’t resist asking him some of our signature “What is your coffee order?” questions.

Q: What is your coffee order?

A: What many people don’t know is that I have my coffee at 9 am every morning and I don’t order one, instead I prefer to make my own using a coffee pod.  

Q: What are some of your greatest professional achievements throughout your career here at Northern Health?

A: There are too many to mention. I have thoroughly enjoyed witnessing our capital projects. Seeing our new buildings being completed, and the site being transformed, is incredibly rewarding. This demonstrates our tremendous growth in a very tangible way and sends a very positive signal to our community that we are here and ready to care for them.

Equally, I am inspired by the attitude of staff towards solving problems. There is such a ‘can do’ attitude among our staff. They rise to the challenge because they care about our patients and their work mates. We all come to work to make things better. We do the best we can with the tools we have. I am proud of all of our collective achievements. What we have done, we have done together.

Q: Can you tell us something not many people know about you?

A: I usually arrive at work at 5.30 am and enjoy a walk through the corridors when it is quiet. I also get all the information I need early in the morning, so I know what the day is likely to be like before the rest of the team arrive.

Q: What would you like to leave as a legacy for the future leaders of Northern Health?

A: Just keep doing what you are doing. Keep looking forward and innovating.

I hope I have been a positive role model for others. This is the legacy I intend to leave. A leader is the person who has the courage to go first, but it takes everyone to commit to the direction to make it happen. I am proud to leave Northern knowing it is a good position and there are people who are more than capable to continue our great work. I will be watching from afar, and quietly applauding all of the successes the Northern will have in the future.

“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do and become more, you are a leader” – John Quincy Adams.

In the midst of Siva’s departure, it became evident that he made a profound impact on both his staff and team of executives. Here is what they had to say about him.

“Siva’s extraordinary leadership capabilities and his ability to positively influence a wide range of people and services to get the best outcomes for this health services has really stood out to me. Whilst being a highly strategic and skilled CEO, Siva has always put both the patient and the staff at the centre of all that he does. He has never faltered in living Northern Health values of Safe, Kind and Together,” – Debra Bourne, Chief Operating Officer.  

“Siva has certainly had an impact on me personally, for our conversations over the past 9 years have been about ‘Staff, Issues and Options’ to resolve staff issues. The intent isn’t about what we should do, because Siva would also ask ‘what is the right thing to do’ and as a HR professional it doesn’t get any better than that,” – Michelle Fenwick, Executive Director, People and Culture. 

“Siva’s leadership of Northern Health to success through innovation, excellence and compassion has helped teach and inspire me. During my time as an executive, I could not have asked for more professional and successful leadership modelling – Siva’s legacy and influence will remain with me for the rest of my career. I am incredibly grateful,” – A/Prof Jason Cirone, Chief Allied Health Officer.

“Siva leads from the front and has been so supportive. His impact has been immense. His leadership was displayed during COVID-19 where he took this as an opportunity for innovation, supporting initiatives such as the Virtual Emergency Department. He has also had a major impact on Northern Health’s capital development works. He once said, “You can tell a good chief executive based on the number of cranes.” I will miss his smile and laugh,” – A/Prof Anthony Gust, Executive Director, Digital Health.

“What strikes me about Siva is his ability to read people. He is a great judge of character and gives people the opportunity to learn and grow in a safe space. I will always be grateful for the opportunity he has given me to serve as part of this executive team. He is an exceptional boss, who will certainly be missed,”- Pina Di Donato, Executive Director, Public Affairs & Foundation.

“Siva’s influence on me was profound, challenging me to become a better executive by striving to understand the business as deeply as he did. His mastery of finance and quick mental calculations set a high bar. He inspired me to learn about building health infrastructure, innovate, and drive positive change. During my time as Health Service Chief Executive, Siva was an invaluable mentor, always available to offer advice and wise counsel, especially during COVID times. ‘Just get on with it’, is my favourite Siva saying,” – Belinda Scott, Executive Director, Mental Health.

“Siva’s leadership has transformed Northern Health from a small outer suburban hospital into a large comprehensive general hospital which our clinical staff and patients are proud of. He has created Northern Health as an environment of success and clinical excellence, which an entire generation of clinicians and patients will be grateful for, and will leave a legacy for our future,” – A/Prof Prahlad Ho, Chief Medical Officer.

“Calm and measured. A leader who built and led a team, and afforded me and others opportunities to learn and grow. A great strategic leader with strong vision of growth and achievement, but always in touch with daily operations. Someone who cares deeply about providing the best to the Northern Health community, patients and staff,” – Lisa Cox, Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer.

“Siva brought fun and interest to my day. No matter how dire the financial situation, Siva’s positive attitude, that we can sort it out, would make even Winston Churchill proud. He always has an interesting take on current events and plenty of war stories from his 30 years in healthcare that help keep things in perspective. I will miss his reassuring presence,” – Basil Ireland, Chief Financial Officer.

“I feel so fortunate to have had the chance to work alongside Siva and as a member of his executive team. Not only is Siva an exceptional leader and strategist, he is also a human being with a great sense of humour and compassion for others. It’s a great example for all of us,” – Carolyn Baker, Chief Legal Officer.

“Siva has been the perfect leader for Northern Health,” – Dr Bill Shearer, Executive Director, Quality Safety and Transformation.

While we are deeply saddened to see Siva go, we take immense pride in his well-deserved appointment. As we extend our heartfelt congratulations and gratitude, we look forward to witnessing the continued impact of his leadership in his new role, confident that he will bring the same excellence and commitment to Victoria’s health sector that he brought to us.

In saying farewell, we also say thank you, Siva! Your legacy will continue to inspire and guide us as we strive to build upon the solid foundation you have laid.

 

Northern Health’s Education and Training Division recently marked a significant milestone with the celebration of its first birthday.

Over the past year, the division has been instrumental in guiding staff and the community through significant organisational changes, including the implementation of the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system and preparation for short-notice accreditation.

Initially, the division focused on the EMR rollout and accreditation readiness, providing essential support to ensure a smooth transition.

They also played a crucial role in the disaggregation of mental health services and the amalgamation with Kilmore, streamlining the management of learning across previously separate health services.

Since its inception, the division has been praised for its effective collaboration and inclusivity. During our recent short notice accreditation survey, surveyors commended the team for equipping staff with the skills and knowledge necessary to enhance patient care.

“The Education and Training Division has supported the staff and community of Northern Health through many key organisational imperatives over the last 12 months. This includes the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the EMR system and short-notice accreditation readiness. Additionally, the division has been pivotal in providing essential support during the disaggregation of mental health services and the Kilmore amalgamation,” said Tony McGillion, Divisional Director, Education and Training.

The division is committed to fostering a positive and collaborative learning environment. Looking ahead, it will continue to work closely with key partners, including the University of Melbourne, La Trobe University, and RMIT University, to support interprofessional practice.

“The division will continue to work with key internal and external stakeholders and partners to promote a positive and inclusive learning environment that leads to safe, kind and collaborative interprofessional practice,” Tony added.

Moving forward, the division will build on this solid foundation to further enhance educational practices and support Northern Health’s mission.

Featured Image: Education and Training Team.

Influenza is a highly contagious disease, which can usually be prevented by receiving the flu vaccine. It’s the most important measure to prevent the flu and its complications and is recommended for all people aged six months and over.

At Northern Health, the flu vaccine is mandatory for all staff, clinical and non-clinical. Barsha Baral, Manager, Infection Prevention and Surveillance, says not only does the flu vaccine reduce your chance of getting influenza, but also reduces the risk of serious illness, medical visits and hospitalisation if you do get the flu.

“The flu isn’t like the common cold, it can hit quickly and last for a few weeks, meaning time off work or school and staying away from family and friends,” she said.

“The more people who are vaccinated in the community, the less likely influenza will spread.”

It is recommended to receive your annual flu vaccine anytime from April onwards to ensure maximum protection for the peak flu season during Melbourne’s cold, winter months, which is typically between June and September.

However, the flu doesn’t disappear as winter comes to an end. The flu can circulate in the community year-round.

“It is never too late to get vaccinated,” Barsha says.

Influenza is typically spread by contact with fluids from coughs, and sneezes, therefore making it a highly contagious disease. Receiving a flu vaccine is just one step in helping to stop the spread.

“Good hand hygiene, cough etiquette and staying home when unwell helps prevent the spread of influenza. In the health care settings, staff should adhere to hand hygiene and droplet precaution (use of surgical mask) with suspected or confirmed influenza cases,” Barsha said.

Ninety-six per cent of Northern Health staff are currently vaccinated. Anyone who is yet to receive their vaccine, must do so by this Thursday, 15 August. Staff can visit the Staff Health Clinic located on Level 1, opposite Ward 15 at Northern Hospital Epping, Monday to Friday between 9 am – 4 pm to receive their vaccine.

Alternatively, staff can visit clinical areas which have nurse immunisers. Anyone who has received the vaccine externally, must send evidence to Staff Health by 15 August.

All staff, clinical and non-clinical who do not receive the vaccine by 15 August, will be required to wear an N95 mask in all work areas across Northern Health, effective Thursday, 16 August. This requirement will remain in place until the flu season is declared over, which will be communicated to staff.

Featured image: Barsha Baral, Manager, Infection Prevention and Surveillance.

Northern Health is proud to announce the launch of its new PET/CT department, which commenced operations on Monday, 12 August 2024, and will be fully operational by the end of the month.

The PET/CT team is led by a distinguished group of Nuclear Medicine Specialists, including A/Prof Stephen Schlicht, Dr Tony Hannah, Dr Raghava Karri and Dr Vivek Baskaran. They are supported by a dedicated team of nuclear medicine technologists under the leadership of Chief Nuclear Medicine Technologist, Carly Sibson.

The new PET/CT facility will greatly enhance access to imaging services for a diverse range of patients, including inpatients, outpatients, and those from community and private hospitals. This advanced imaging technology is primarily used for diagnosing and managing various types of cancer. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in diagnosing neurodegenerative diseases, inflammatory and infectious conditions, as well as some cardiac disorders.

PET/CT imaging involves administering a radioactive tracer that helps assess the metabolic activity of cells. This tracer emits positrons, which are detected by the PET scanner. Cells with high metabolic activity, such as those in cancer or infection, will accumulate the tracer, making them visible on the PET scan. The CT component provides detailed anatomical images, which are superimposed on the PET scan to offer comprehensive information about disease locations.

The new PET/CT service promises a significant improvement in both imaging access and quality of care, particularly benefiting patients under the care of oncology and haematology teams. The state-of-the-art Siemens Vision 600 PET/CT scanner, a leading digital PET scanner combined with a fully diagnostic CT, enables rapid scan times, high-resolution images, and a reduction in radiation dose to patients.

Carly Sibson, Chief Nuclear Medicine Technologist, expressed her excitement about the new service.

“It is exciting to be involved in the introduction of a new imaging service to Northern Health and I’m proud to be a part of it. For me, knowing that we will help our cancer patients more easily access the imaging they need is very rewarding. We can reduce discomfort for our patients by significantly reducing scan times with this PET/CT technology. We may only play a small part in each patient’s journey but with the new PET/CT service and the amazing team we have working in the department, we can make a positive difference to their overall experience,” she said.

A/Prof Terry Kok highlighted the significance of this development by saying, “The new PET/CT service is yet another major milestone in our objective to expand the scope and quality of Medical Imaging services at Northern Health. I’m very proud of the hard work that our Nuclear Medicine and project teams have invested into making this a reality.”

A/Prof Stephen Schlicht, one of the Nuclear Medicine Specialists, praised the new facility.

“Northern Health has invested in arguably the best PET/CT technology currently available – the Siemens Vision 600 PET/CT. This state-of-the-art digital PET scanner combined with a fully diagnostic CT results in superb diagnostic image quality in terms of resolution and sensitivity. The scanner is housed in a new purpose-built facility to ensure our patients’ scans are not only of the best technical quality but also that their experience is as positive as possible. I am delighted to be part of NIV at Northern Health with my other medical colleagues, technical, nursing, and clerical team in providing this critical new in-house imaging service.”

The new PET/CT department is conveniently located on the ground floor of Northern Hospital Epping, opposite anatomical pathology.

 

Pictured in featured image: PET/CT Department team.

Northern Health has achieved successful Accreditation during the Short Notice Assessment, conducted from 6 – 10 May 2024.

The Accreditation assessment involved on-site visits by assessors, independent of the health service, who spent time at Northern Hospital Epping, Broadmeadows Hospital, Kilmore District Hospital, Bundoora Centre and Craigieburn Centre, along with all transitioned mental health services.

Surveyors experienced great hospitality throughout the week as they met with staff, spoke to patients and looked for evidence that each action in the National Standards has been implemented effectively. They looked for evidence of a culture where quality and safety are valued, and systems that provide the very best care to our patients and community. Surveyors said it was evident that safety and quality is firmly embedded into the organisation, and while there are some areas to improve upon, the feedback was very positive. They have also emphasised that the value of kindness is very evident throughout the health service, and were pleased to observe ‘very authentic patient centred care’ across Northern Health.

Northern Health has now received a detailed Assessment Report, which contains comments pertaining to the findings of the assessment team. All 151 actions were assessed as met across all Northern Health facilities. There were no recommendations that require remedial action.

Key feedback from the survey team included:

• Standard 1 Governance: There is strong Clinical Governance framework effectively applied by a visible executive and leadership team.
• Standard 2 Partnering with Consumers: Amazing and embedded, could be strengthened with central oversight/visibility of all the great work with consumers across the health service.
• Standard 3 Infection Prevention: Led by a credentialed and enthusiastic team.
• Standard 4 Medication Safety: Excellent management at all levels of the organisation.
• Standard 5 Comprehensive Care: Working together is apparent, care is patient centered and risk management and harm minimisation is a strength.
• Standard 6 Communicating for Safety: It is evident of how it is embedded across the organisation, with very good engagement with patients, families and carers
• Standard 7 Blood Management: Great framework
• Standards 8 Recognising and Responding to Clinical Deterioration: Strong governance

Reflecting on the Short Notice Assessment, some of the insights from Northern Health staff included:

• “I feel we were really well prepared for this assessment. The level of organisation-wide education and training about the standards and our quality and safety responsibilities was very effective. We need to ensure that despite the success of this assessment, we need to maintain a high level of quality and safety and clinical governance – especially as we grow and induct new staff into the organisation.” – Jason Cirone, Chief Allied Health Officer.
• “My overall experience was positive. The assessors I was aligned to were very approachable and thorough. They were very mindful of ensuring the Nurse Unit Manager or Head of Unit felt comfortable and was given time to talk and showcase their area.” – Paula Dimakos-Pugliese, Quality Coordinator.
• “It was a pleasant, respectful and professional experience. The assessors were very through and asked a number of questions after reviewing the evidence before our meetings. They were keen to understand processes and implementation on the floor at patient level.” – Vinod Chellaram, Operational Director of Medical Workforce.
• “I found the assessors to be personable, knowledgeable and genuinely interested in the work that we were doing across our craft groups and the division more broadly. They took the time to listen to us talk about what we do and recognised the passion we have for our work and the value it brings to our learners and in turn our patients. We have a great culture of improvement at Northern Health which is driven by the passion that staff have for their roles and those they work with (rather than the need to comply with any particular set of standards) and supported with great governance. I think this helps us to address those things the surveyors are interested in proactively as our motivation is coming from the right place.” – Peter Brack, Director Education – Allied Health.
• “It was a new experience for me, and also a milestone for the health service as Clinical Trials were incorporated into our survey week for the first time. Our team’s knowledge, as well as that of the governing body and the researchers, earned high praise from the assessor, as interviewees came prepared, often bringing along documentation to the interviews to further demonstrate transparency. Looking ahead, we are committed to streamlining research practices and hope to demonstrate even greater integration in future assessments of Clinical Trials.” – Belinda De Poi, Research Quality Manager, RDGU.

Siva Sivarajah, Chief Executive, Northern Health, said that he is proud of each of our staff for all of their work in the lead up to Accreditation, and for upholding our values each and every day.

“I would like to personally thank and acknowledge Maree Glynn and Marisa Argetto for their unwavering commitment and diligent efforts in preparing for accreditation, including the way they coordinated the schedule and provided staff to chaperone the surveyors across the week. I also acknowledge the work of the Chairs of the Standards Committees, our clinical and non-clinical leadership and Bill Shearer, our Executive Lead for Quality, Safety and Transformation,” Mr Sivarajah said.

“Congratulations to each and every one of you for the part you played in achieving this significant outcome.”

Staff can access the full Assessment Report and other assets here.

#WeAreNorthern

Meet Margaret Trajkovski, Pharmacy Technician.

1. What is your coffee order?

Regular skinny latte, extra hot.

2. What is your role at Northern Health and what does it entail?

I have been working as a pharmacy technician since 2015. The role as a pharmacy technician is looking after medications across all Northern Health. Those include stocking up medications in the pharmacy and all wards, conducting expiry checks, assist the pharmacist and maintain the imprest room.

3. What do you love most about your role?

I am always passionate in helping other people. Some might even call me their personal councillor. Coming to work every day actually brings excitement when I wake up in the morning, as I love working with our awesome colleagues.

4. What would people be most surprised to know about you?

When I was 15 years old, I started working at KFC and stayed for 19 years!

5. If you could have dinner with any person, living or dead, who would it be and why?

Celine Dion. I saw her preform live in Vegas and she was amazing. She is such an inspirational woman!

Today, the Premier of Victoria, Jacinta Allan, and Minister for Health, Mary-Anne Thomas, visited Northern Hospital Epping to make a special announcement regarding health service budgets. The Premier has announced a further $1.5 billion for the health sector, which we welcome.

It was further announced that a new agency within the Department of Health will be created with the purpose of overseeing the financial performance and sustainability of Victorian health services. This agency will be known as ‘Hospitals Victoria’.

In creating this new agency, it was announced that our Chief Executive, Siva Sivarajah, is being appointed as its inaugural Chief Executive. Siva has accepted this new role and as a result will be stepping down as Chief Executive of Northern Health.

As the Chief Executive, Siva has provided exceptional leadership and clear strategic direction to build our health service into the high performing organisation it is today. Northern Health has thrived under his leadership and he leaves us with an impressive legacy and a strong culture.

Siva’s record speaks for itself and we are very proud that our own Chief Executive has been chosen to lead in this important new role for Victoria. This is a testament to the quality of leadership we have been privileged to work with.

Since 2015, Siva has been instrumental in our health service growing from a small community hospital to one of the most innovative and sustainable health services in the state. Under his leadership, total revenue grew from around $400 million to $1.2 billion. Staffing levels increased from 4,000 to 9,000. Capital redevelopment projects, both complete and in progress, continue to provide outstanding care to our growing and diverse community.

While we are sad to see Siva go, I know you will join me in congratulating him on his new role and thanking him for his outstanding contribution to Northern Health, and to the Victorian health system in general.

Siva will commence in his new role as of Monday, 19 August and Debra Bourne, Northern Health Chief Operating Officer, will act as Northern Health Chief Executive until further notice. We will update you as more information becomes available.

JENNIFER WILLIAMS AM

BOARD CHAIR

This week is National Stroke Week, which shines a spotlight on how to recognise the signs of stroke and save lives. It is also a fitting time to celebrate a significant achievement for the Stroke Unit at Northern Health.

In January 2024, the unit successfully underwent a detailed accreditation to become one of just 15 certified Stroke Units in Australia. Stroke Unit certification is a voluntary process that assesses units on the quality of care being delivered for people with stroke. It affirms excellence in governance systems, including local policy and procedures, in line with the Australian Commission of Safety and Quality in Healthcare Acute Stroke Standard Indicators.

According to the Australian Stroke Coalition, access to a stroke unit is proven to make the biggest overall difference to patient outcomes following stroke. It is the platform for stroke treatments, staff education, stroke data collection and quality improvement, and therefore is the most critical element of good stroke care.

Northern Health’s Acute Stroke Unit offers comprehensive services for stroke patients requiring intensive medical, nursing, and allied health care. Located on Ward 21 at Northern Hospital Epping, it is a Stroke High Dependency Unit, with stroke telemetry beds where patients post thrombolysis (clot buster therapy) are managed.

An interprofessional team with expertise in acute stroke and rehabilitation provide care work within the unit, with many staff holding post-graduate qualifications in stroke and neuroscience care. Over 400 patients are treated on the unit each year, and provided with ongoing, tailored education. This includes translated resources for the CALD community.

On Monday, 5 August, Dr Lisa Murphy, Stroke Foundation CEO, visited Northern Hospital Epping to present the Stroke Unit with a certificate and plaque in recognition of the recent accreditation by the Australian Stroke Coalition.

During this presentation, she praised the Northern Health team on their successful accreditation.

“A huge congratulations on this achievement. Your community is going to absolutely benefit from this,” said Dr Murphy.

“You should be really proud of the service you are delivering, and the team you have here. You can’t deliver a service like this without a fantastic team, so you should be very, very proud.”

A stroke is always a medical emergency, and the focus of National Stroke Week is ensuring the community knows the F.A.S.T. (Face, Arms, Speech and Time) signs of stroke so that they can save a life in the event of a loved one experiencing a stroke.

The Stroke Foundation recommends the F.A.S.T. test as an easy way to remember the most common signs of stroke:

• Face Check their face. Has their mouth drooped?
• Arms Can they lift both arms?
• Speech Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?
• Time Is critical. If you see any of these signs call 000 straight away.

“We are always so impressed when family members tell us they used the F.A.S.T. (Face, Arms, Speech and Time) signs of stroke and knew that their loved one was having a stroke – and knew to call 000 really fast,” said Elizabeth Mackey and Anne Rodda, Stroke Nurse Practitioners.

“It makes a huge difference to what we can do to help someone with a stroke, if they get an ambulance to the Emergency Department fast.”