Engagement creating networks

BOORT District Health’s approach to better health, access and care had overwhelming support from regional partners.

Board chairman Wendy Gladman told last Wednesday’s annual general meeting that strong bonds and new allegiances had been forged in 2021-2022.

“We are proud to report the improvement and enrichment to the health and wellbeing of our community partners facilitated by collaborations,” Mrs Gladman said.

“Our staff have been versatile, adaptive and outstandingly resilient.

“The robust frameworks of governance and quality supported our system to achieve such great outcomes.

“We asked so much of our staff and they delivered. Well exceeding the department target 79 per cent of staff completed the People Matter Survey with an overall positive response to safety culture questions.”

Mrs Gladman said engagement with Bendigo Health and region health networks had benefited BDH.

“Boort District Health contin- ues to work with a variety of shared services with our neighbouring small rural health services,” she said.

“This work supports us in jointly addressing the region’s noted health priority areas.

“Our overall strategic direction continues on the path of increasing opportunities for better health, better access and better care.”

Mrs Gladman praised BDH staff for maintaining readiness in dealing with COVID-19.

“There will undoubtedly continue to be challenges for all of us while the world adjusts to life with COVID-19 a continuous and evolving threat,” she said.

“We are, however, confident that through our continued resilience, shared commitments and respectful relations, together we will continue to achieve the best possible outcomes.”

Mrs Gladman said recruitment and retention of staff with growth of key initiatives had been a driving direction for the year.

She said the senior executive team had been crucial in exceptional delivery of services.

1100 COVID screening tests for year

MORE than 1100 COVID screening tests were conducted by Boort District Health at the peak of the pandemic lockdowns and restrictions.

CEO Donna Doyle told last week’s annual general meeting the week-day drive-through clinic tests had been recorded for 2021-2022.

She said the service’s urgent care clinic had treated more than 590 patients for the year.

“BDH built on its use of telehealth with key involvement in the Loddon Mallee Regional Telehealth Strategy.” she said.

“Boort has continued to grow and establish our Royal Flying Doctor wellbeing and telehealth specialists services and support the Boort District Medical Centre patients by offering room and facilities to utilise telehealth as needed.”

Ms Doyle said a limited X-ray service had been available in 2021-2022 with 41 X-rays taken.

“Volunteers at BDH contribute invaluably to the health service goals and objectives,” she said.

“Reintroducing our teams of dedicated volunteers was bolstered by a recruitment drive.”

Volunteers assist with escorting residents on outings, delivery of meals on wheels and running the ladies’ auxiliary opshop.