Today, the neonatal care team hosted an elaborate display for Neonatal Awareness Day.

Located in the Northern Hospital Epping front foyer, the display featured medical and nursing simulations, items of lifesaving equipment and experienced health care professionals on hand to speak with staff, patients and consumers.

The Neonatal Unit is on a mission is to provide the highest standard of specialised care and support to premature and critically newborns and their families. They are committed to fostering an environment of compassion, excellence and innovation, ensuring that every tiny life entrusted to their care has the best possible start in their journey. The dedicated team of healthcare professionals, in collaboration with families, work tirelessly to promote the health, growth, and wellbeing of vulnerable infants.

Milly, Registered Nurse, Neonatal Unit, Northern Health, said, “We are raising awareness about our neonatal unit and providing people the opportunity to look at our equipment and talk to our friendly health professionals.”

Every day, all around the world, babies are born prematurely, many who require ongoing specialised care. In these critical moments, neonatal units becomes their first homes, and dedicated health professionals become their heroes. In the midst of those incubators and monitors, we find the true meaning of hope.

“Today we have opened our doors to the community to come down and see what we do in our neonatal unit. We also recognise the amazing work our doctors and nurses do in caring for our tiniest babies in the neonatal unit,” said Barbara Rischitelli, Nurse Unit Manager Neonatal Unit, Northern Health.

The work that the neonatal care team do is nothing short of extraordinary. But neonatal care doesn’t only rest with the health professionals. It is a collective effort. Families and communities all play a vital role in supporting these infants and their parents.

Our Northern Health values; Safe, Kind, Together, serve as our guiding principles in the neonatal unit, reminding us of our commitment to providing a secure, compassionate, and collaborative environment for the well-being of our precious infants and their families.

So, let us remember the importance of our neonatal care, not just today, but every day as we support the incredible individuals and Northern Health that dedicate themselves to this cause.

Featured Image: Neonatal Care Team, Northern Health.

#WeAreNorthern

Meet Jennifer Gilham, Interim Chief Executive Officer of Kilmore District Health.

Many of us at Northern Health have had the privilege of getting to know Jennifer over the past year as we worked towards the voluntary amalgamation of our two health services. However, as you will see, Jennifer’s relationship with Northern Health goes back much further than that.

Jennifer stepped into the role of Interim CEO at Kilmore District Health in February 2023. Her leadership throughout the voluntary amalgamation process has been instrumental in shaping what a better-connected health service could look like.

Q: Jennifer, let’s start with one of life’s most pertinent questions. What is your usual coffee order?

A: Mocha… chocolate is (one of) my weaknesses. If I could add it to everything, I would!

I only started drinking coffee when I began working at Northern Health in 2015, as I found this was a great way to meet others and get to know the Northern Health team.

Q: Tell us about your career journey so far. Have you always wanted to work in healthcare?

A: I studied nursing as a mature-aged student after I had my children. I had wanted to be a nurse since I was about 10 years old, when I would go into the nursing home to visit my grandmother.  The nurses were always so kind and caring. The nurses who cared for me when I had my children, inspired me to follow my dream of becoming a nurse. Two in particular, became my personal and professional mentors, and I still consider them to be great friends.

I started my nursing career as an enrolled nurse at Beechworth. I completed a Bachelor of Nursing and then my graduate year at Seymour Health. I then undertook post graduate certificates in Rural and Report Health and Health Service Management. I commenced working at Northern Health in the Emergency Department and then as Short Stay Unit NUM, and Operations Director, before commencing at Kilmore District Health in 2018 as the Director of Clinical and Aged Care Services.

Q: Tell us about the work culture at Kilmore, and how you see this aligning with the culture at Northern Health.

A: One thing that stands out to me, having worked with both Kilmore Health and Northern Health teams, is the ‘can do’ attitude of both teams. If there is something that is going to improve services or patient care, staff are keen to give it a go and are always looking at how they can do things differently to support better outcomes for patients, resident and consumers.

What is your vision for the future of Kilmore District Hospital?

A: That Kilmore District Hospital continues to provide safe and quality care and expands its current services and streamlines access to healthcare for our community.

Q: What is your connection to the local community?

A: I was born at Seymour Hospital and have lived in Seymour for most of my life. My children attended school in Kilmore. I am also involved in a number of local community and sporting groups. I am very passionate about advocating to ensure that rural and regional communities have equitable access to high quality health care services and to be able to access care close to home where possible.

Q: How will the amalgamation benefit staff both at Kilmore and at Northern Health?

A: I believe that being connected will provide different and varied opportunities for staff to work in different settings. It will provide opportunities to learn different skills in areas that that they may not have had the opportunity, such as HRO, CLEO, Public Relations, Northern Health Foundation, Decision Support, but also with opportunities for STEP programs, post graduate studies and research. There are lots of exciting opportunities that will be opened up to staff.

Q: What do you like to do when you are not working?

A: When I am not working, I like to spend time with family and friends, walk our dog, play golf, eating out!

Q: What is your favourite holiday destination?

A: Sorry, can’t choose one….

• Bali for relaxing
• New Zealand – to visit my daughter who lives in Dunedin
• Anywhere by the beach!

Q: What is something that most people would not know about you?

A: I am a little bit of an adrenaline junkie, I recently went paragliding at Bright!

Q: Lastly, is there anything you would like to say to staff at Kilmore?

A: It has been an honour for me to lead Kilmore District Health over the past year. This year has brought about a lot of change, and I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their hard work, their support, their patience and participation throughout this process.

I am so proud of our health service and everyone who works at Kilmore, and the community we serve. I am excited to see what the future brings.

Today we celebrated Better Connected Care with our Kilmore District Hospital colleagues at the Kilmore District Hospital Staff Open Day.

The event welcomed staff from across the service to enjoy a morning of festivities in the rose garden, including speeches, a visit from therapy dogs and a lively performance from the Northern Health Community Choir.

The Northern Health Foundation offered free coffee, and BankVic supplied a tasty barbeque lunch, while representatives from People and Culture offered support and advice to staff.

Staff were also given gift bags, containing lunch boxes, keep cups and a welcome pack.

“We are delighted to welcome Kilmore District Hospital to Northern Health,” said Debra Bourne, Chief Operating Officer, Northern Health.

“Commencing 1 November 2023, the voluntary amalgamation ensures a greater coordination of health services across Melbourne’s north and the Kilmore region by improving access to health services while focusing on the community’s future healthcare needs.”

“It is important that we acknowledge and celebrate the rich history of healthcare in Kilmore. Dating back to 1856, the bluestone façade of Kilmore District Hospital remains a pillar within the local community, and we are proud to be part of the next chapter in its story,” Ms Bourne said.

“Today is the culmination of many months of hard work, and I thank all of our Kilmore staff, volunteers, community and patients for their ongoing support,” said Jennifer Gilham, Interim CEO, Kilmore District Hospital.

“It is a really exciting time for our community, and I look forward to working together with Northern Health moving forward.”

Please see some photos from the event below:

 

Featured Image: Jennifer Gilham, Interim CEO, Kilmore District Hospital; Ren Cazar, Project Manager, Northern Health; and Debra Bourne, Chief Operating Officer, Northern Health.

Today marks a significant milestone in the history of Northern Health and Kilmore District Health as we join to become a stronger health service, caring for the growing and diverse needs of the northern catchment, together.

This amalgamation will enable us to improve access to care for our patients in the Northern Growth Corridor – one of Victoria’s fastest growing regions. It will also provide greater opportunities for staff to further their education and enhance their professional skills.

Our health services have successfully worked together for many years. This next step is a natural progression in our partnership and will ensure a sustainable future for staff and patients. You can expect most things to remain as they have been until now. We anticipate a smooth transition, and we are here to answer any questions you may have.

In the coming months, we will begin working to develop an integrated Strategic Plan and Clinical Services Plan which encompasses a shared vision for the future. We look forward to involving you in these plans.

Much work has taken place behind the scenes to get us to this day. I take this opportunity to thank everyone who has worked tirelessly to ensure the successful outcome of this project. We will continue to work together to shape our new and better-connected health service.

On behalf of the boards and executive of Northern Health and Kilmore District Health, I thank you for your input throughout the process of voluntary amalgamation and look forward to working with you to improve the health outcomes of our local communities.

Kind Regards,

Siva Sivarajah
Chief Executive
Northern Health

Northern Health Research Week has concluded for another year. This week-long event united clinicians, researchers and academics, allowing them to shine a spotlight on their remarkable work.

One word resonated throughout the event – ‘translation’. Nowhere was this more vividly brought to life than in the dynamic poster blitz sessions. In this distinctive format, our research came alive within the hospital’s walls, engaging peers, colleagues, and most importantly, our community. It was heartening to see curious members of the public gravitating towards these lively gatherings, eager to listen to captivating presentations and take home valuable insights.

Thursday’s Medical Grand Rounds launched the first of a series of presentations. We heard from clinician-researcher Dr Sanjeevan Muruganandan, who highlighted his groundbreaking research on managing malignant pleural effusion. His work is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in digital health and remote monitoring. This was followed by Anthony Gust, Executive Director, Digital Health, who highlighted the exceptional digital health team he has built to support clinicians ‘to infinity and beyond’.

Our Chief Medical Officer, Ms Wanda Stelmach, officially opened Research Week on Friday. We were reminded of Northern Health’s humble beginnings, which were echoed by A/Prof Prahlad Ho, who reminisced about dodging kangaroos to walk to the hospital building. A/Prof Ho outlined the future research vision at Northern Health, which included key university partnerships with La Trobe, RMIT and The University of Melbourne, the new Research Development Unit and the support of a growing research culture with the establishment of flagship research groups.

He also announced an invigorated Northern Health Research Grant Scheme, which includes a $50,000 Northern Health Foundation Grant. Professor Magdalina Plebanski (RMIT) introduced us to the concept of “inflamm-aging” while Professor Vipul Bansal (RMIT) offered insights into successfully translating nanotechnology research from the lab to the clinic. The session closed with some inspirational thoughts from Professor Geoffrey Donnan, who said, “Think big – a small project takes as much time and effort as a big project.”

Our keynote showcase featured the groundbreaking COVID-19 research led by our very own Professor Don Campbell, whose big ideas, as he informed us, come to him while ironing – hence his ever-immaculate attire.

Associate Professor Lisa Hui enlightened us about the development of the NCHER Reproductive Health Biobank, in partnership with The University of Melbourne, and its role in nurturing the future generation of clinician-researchers. Dr Erica Hately promised to “feed your intellectual soul”- and she didn’t disappoint. Systematic reviews have never looked so exciting.

A highlight of the event was the Allied Health Rising Stars session, where promising clinician-researchers Dr. Hazel Heng, Belinda Baines, Emily Farrugia and Stephen Quick shared their insights on key research initiatives at Northern Health, such as the ‘Stepping into Research’ program with La Trobe University that ignited their passion for research. Personally, I was extremely proud to see these young clinicians share their journey and vision for the future.

The ‘best of the best’ oral presentations competed for the inaugural Peter Brooks Research Award. Congratulations to all our presenters, with a special shout-out to our winners – Natasha de Alwis (3rd place), James Walker (2nd place), and the first-ever Peter Brooks Award winner, Ishara Atukorala, for her presentation on, ‘First trimester placental exposure to novel CMV antiviral drugs: an in vitro toxicity study.’

The Professor Peter Brooks Oration was delivered by Professor Catherine Itsiopoulos (RMIT). She spoke of his passion for medicine and for access to healthcare, particularly his pioneering thinking around virtual care which he championed over two decades ago. It’s no coincidence that virtual care has become a cornerstone of clinical research at Northern Health. Professor Brooks has undeniably left a lasting legacy- our future is indeed bright.

All in all, an exciting week, best summed up by Professor Donnan who said, “I wish I was where you are now”.

Written by
Dr Adam Semciw
Associate Professor – Allied Health

 

Featured image shows Ishara Atukorala  receiving the inaugural Professor Peter Brooks award.

This morning, Northern Health hosted its fourth and final Quarterly Staff Recognition Awards for 2023, virtually coming together to honour and appreciate the exceptional contributions of our devoted staff.

Once more, we were overwhelmed by the remarkable participation of our staff, receiving numerous nominations spanning across seven categories.

Jade Ralston, Acting Executive Director, People and Culture, opened the ceremony by acknowledging the incredible work of our staff across the health service.

“As this is the final Quarterly Awards Ceremony for 2023, I would like to acknowledge all of the deserving staff who have received awards or been nominated by their peers over the past 12 months,” she said.

“I also look forward to our next awards ceremony is 2024, where we will also have the opportunity to acknowledge staff from Kilmore District Hospital, as they join the Northern Health network as of 1 November.”

“I am extremely proud to work in an organisation where staff are passionate and kind and turn up to work every day to provide outstanding care to our patients and community. We thank you all for your hard work and dedication.”

Derrickson Mano, ANUM at Ward 1, Bundoora Centre, won the Innovation Award, for being instrumental in ensuring the ward was ready for the highly anticipated EMR launch. He was also recognised for his volunteering and active participation in creating resources such as the QRG hard copy, which was greatly beneficial to staff during the transition.

The Patient Experience Award went to Damian Cresp, Health Coach in the Patient Watch team, for delving deeper and finding out that one of his clients had been a victim of elder abuse for over two decades. Damian not only exposed this injustice but also passionately advocated for his client, displaying unwavering empathy, determination, and dedication throughout the process.

Lisa Bannan, Ward Clerk, Admin Services, won the Education Award for playing an integral part in training new clerks and others within the Maternity Unit. She was also praised for being knowledgeable, kind and always displaying enthusiasm.

Danielle Cook, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner from the Paediatric Unit at Northern Hospital Epping, was the recipient of the Clinical Excellence Award for excelling in her clinical skills and knowledge, having an incredible bedside manner and for being an excellent leader with a compassion and kindness that are truly admirable.

The Excellence in Safety Award was awarded to Awash Prasad, Director of Legal Services for demonstrating exceptional dedication by forging a collaborative partnership with the Mental Health Division and facilitating the seamless integration of the division’s intricate legal processes and Melbourne Health’s requirements into Northern Health.

Sally Braddock, Gardener, Engineering Services, won the Rising Star award for her remarkable enthusiasm and dedication to her role. She has played a pivotal role in transforming the garden environment at CCU by actively overseeing repair and restoration efforts.

Lastly, the inaugural Excellence in Leadership Award went to Joby Allen Baby, RN/ANUM at Unit 1, Medical Surgical Ward, Broadmeadows Hospital, in recognition of her exceptional mentorship and leadership abilities. Joby’s unwavering integrity, deep respect, and profound empathy have played a crucial role in fostering a positive and secure environment for all.

Big congratulations to all award winners today!

The Quarterly Staff Recognition Awards are proudly sponsored by BankVic and Northern Health Foundation.

To watch the ceremony, please click here.

Featured image (L-R) top row: Derrickson Mano, Damian Cresp, Joby Allen Baby, Lisa Bannan. 

Bottom row (L-R): Awash Prasad, Danielle Cook, Sally Braddock. 

October is Mental Health Awareness Month. Scott Bell is a Lead Peer Support Worker/Consumer Consultant at our North West Area Mental Health Service (NWAMHS) in Moreland/Merri-Bek. Peer Support workers are an important part of our Lived Experience Workforce. Their ‘lived’ expertise and insights help others access our services. Scott is also a musician.

Q: Scott, let’s start with your favourite genre of music?

Any type of 90’s grunge or the desert/stoner rock movement in late 80’s. Nirvana, Alice in Chains, Fu Man Chu, Kyuss are some of my favourite bands.

Q: Favourite tune to relax?

Some Texas style blues with some deep Stevie Ray Vaughan influences. I can jam on that for hours!  

Q: How would you describe your role? 

My role is one that makes the consumer the expert in their own lives. The consumers and I work together to create hope and find a life worth living.

Q. Tell us the role of the ‘5 Ways Cafe’ and what purpose it serves?

The ‘Cafe’ is run and managed by consumers. They choose what they would like to do, and this fosters other peer relationships outside of the service. It creates a safe space where people get to be the experts in their own life.  

Q:  Tell us more about how ‘people get to be the experts in their own life’?

People get to be the experts in their own life where they get to make choices and recover the way they wish. Mental health is a journey, one of ups and downs. What’s really special is seeing someone focus on what they want rather than being stuck on what they can’t change.

Q: How would you describe Northern Health? 

Northern Health is a service that is growing. They have been very supportive of our Lived Experience Workforce and the opportunity to truly integrate lived experience in all aspects of its service.

Q: Tell us something about you, that will surprise our readers?

I’m a reptile enthusiast who owns many snakes and reptiles!

To do justice to a career as extensive and illustrious as that of Professor Peter Brooks AM, one would require much more than a column of this size. Having published over 400 papers over the past five decades, Peter’s curriculum vitae reads more like a medical journal than a resume, and that is the condensed version.

Professor Peter Brooks AM MD FRACP is an extraordinary academic figure who has made significant contributions to the fields of education and research. With his immense knowledge, passion, and dedication, he has become a respected authority in his numerous areas of expertise.

After graduating from Monash University, Peter went on to hold hospital and university posts in Hobart and Glasgow, training initially as a rheumatologist. He has held professorial appointments at many of Australia’s leading universities including University of Melbourne, University of Queensland, University of Sydney, Flinders University, and University of Tasmania. He has been widely published in the areas of musculoskeletal diseases, health education and more recently on health care and health workforce reform.  He is also a respected commentator on health policy and the importance of developing an evidence base in this area.

Those who know Peter, would be aware of his long-standing interest in digital health. It pleased him to see Northern Health lead the way with the rapid deployment of telehealth during the pandemic, and the subsequent investments by Northern Health and the State Government in the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED) and the creation of digital pathways to access healthcare.

It is fair to say that Professor Brooks has been instrumental in laying the foundations for the strong research culture that is currently being built at Northern Health. When I asked Peter about key highlights in his time with us, he cited Research Week, the PhD scholarships, and the annual Research Dinner as being amongst his most memorable. He is also very proud of the partnerships with academic partners University of Melbourne, La Trobe University, RMIT, and Swinburne. But perhaps what he is most proud of is the Health Navigator Program with Swinburne University and Medibank Private, with Dr. Rebecca Jessup as the lead.

Peter’s passion for research and his desire to make a difference have earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. In 2010, he featured on the Australia Day Honours List as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM). The citation read ‘for service to medicine, particularly in the field of rheumatology, as an academic, researcher and clinician’.

Professor Brooks is not only a distinguished and revered academic but also a compassionate individual. I have had the pleasure of knowing Peter since we served on the Foundation Board together over many years, where he shared his skills, knowledge, expertise and passion for medical research to stimulate and encourage philanthropy in this area. We are extremely grateful for the significant contribution Peter had made to the Northern Health Foundation.

There is no question about the impact Professor Brooks has made to both the academic community and society as a whole. On behalf of everyone at Northern Health and Northern Health Foundation, I applaud Peter on a stellar career and thank him for sharing his wisdom and knowledge so we can continue working towards the ultimate vision of providing outstanding healthcare for our community, and significantly growing our research capabilities.

Please join us this evening, as Professor Catherine Itsiopoulos delivers the Professor Peter Brooks Oration and my colleague on the Foundation Board, Peter McWilliam, will pay him a special tribute.  Professor Brooks will thereafter present the inaugural research award named in his honour.

 

Pina Di Donato

Executive Director

Public Affairs and Foundation