September Staff News 2024 by ncncommunications

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

On Wednesday October 30th

NCN Health Cobram will celebrate our 75 Year anniversary with an Open Day. The Day will run from approximately 11am – 2pm and will include a welcome and short presentation, health promotion activities with Community Health being open to the public for the day, guided tours of the campus including the new Urgent Care Centre and redeveloped areas of Irvin House, historic information on display and a BBQ lunch for all staff and guests. October 30th will be a normal working day for staff, however you are invited to join in for lunch and enjoy the displays where you are able.

The Communications Team are working on this event and are seeking any photos or historical information from 1940s until now, if you would like to be involved or have information to share please contact ncncommunications@ncnhe alth.org.au

A flyer and further information on this event will come out next week.

BUDGET AND HEALTH SERVICES PLAN

NCN Health has received updated budget planning advice from The Department Of Health (Vic).

While the DoH has eased the pressure on some areas, we are still required to implement significant budget savings this financial year and ongoing. Thanks in part to feedback from staff, we’ve already made some efficiency improvements, like better control of heating and cooling, streamlining work processes and reviewing vacant roles. These changes have helped ease pressure on areas like education, training, and development. We'll keep updating you on our progress with budget planning with a continued focus on maintaining service quality and supporting our staff

The Health Services Plan (2024) has now been delivered and the Executive Team and Board have reviewed the plan. The Department of Health have flagged that there will be an opportunity to provide feedback and advice about the plan which NCN Health will do once we understand what that process will involve. If you have any concerns or questions about how the Budget planning or Health Services Plan affects you or our organisation, please talk to myself or your manager

PEOPLE MATTER SURVEY

The People Matter Survey (PMS) for 2024 launches on Monday October 7. It is run by the Victorian Public Sector Commission with a view to build positive workplace cultures and improve working environments for public sector employees across Victoria The Survey runs for three weeks in October in all Victorian Health Services. It is confidential and no identifying information is provided to NCN Health. The Survey is not mandatory for staff, but the more employees who complete the survey the better our organization can understand our workplace culture, wellbeing and engagement. With that in mind, I really encourage all of you to take 10 minutes to complete this important survey.

The PMS will be sent out to all staff next week via text message and email It will also be available on the intranet.

Mark Ashcroft CEO, NCN HEALTH

Cost Saving Ideas

DO YOU OR YOUR TEAM HAVE AN IDEA THAT COULD REDUCE COSTS AT NCN? HAVE YOU SPOTTED AN AREA WHERE EFFICIENCY COULD BE IMPROVED?

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU. SCAN THE QR CODE TO SUBMIT YOUR IDEAS. ALL IDEAS WILL BE EXPLORED AND FEEDBACK PROVIDED.

HUME PAS CONNECT IS COMING!

New Patient Administration System

All Hume Health Services, including NCN Health, are soon to upgrade to a new Patient Administration System (PAS) delivered by HUME PAS CONNECT. Hume PAS Connect will replace the current patient administration system. The replacement system is called i.PM.

We need a new Patient Administration System as our current system, ViTAL has reached end of life and is no longer supported with updates. Our new system will offer a better solution and experience for our staff and our patients. The new PAS i.PM will begin going live on October 1stboth the new system and our current system ViTAL will be available.

A full transition to the new system i PM PAS will occur on 20th November 2024 That means ViTAL will be turned off at 5pm 19th November.

There is a dedicated page on our staff intranet explaining more about the new PAS – you can check it out here Hume PAS Connect Project (iPM Software)

Stage 2 & 3 Renovation Cobram Campus Update

Internal and external renovations are continuing at Cobram Campus as we move through stage 2 & 3 of the project. The Main Entrance was closed recently to allow for the front entrance step to be concreted and the archway reinforced.

Internally, a hoarding bypass is still in place to access acute and urgent care. This bypass starts at the main reception waiting room, crosses over what was previously the triage room, across the hallway and into acute ward through what used to be an internal courtyard, this allows visitors and staff to move between reception and acute and urgent care areas.

Parking Reminders

AM staff/day staff are all to park in the staff car park down Charles street (medical clinic/CRC Carpark)

PM staff are to also park in the staff car park down Charles street (medical clinic/CRC Carpark)

Security are on site at 2200 as people leave to this space

ND please park in the car park out front of Irvin House, Security are in the area from 2115 as staff arrive to allow safe entry

Urgent care/ Radiology and patient/visitors have very limited car parks so please DO NOT park Broadway St.

Please if you have any concerns around locations of parking for your shift speak to your manager.

Maintenance Driveway

Staff parking remains closed in this area as Crow Constructions will be using this space to access the acute area for construction works. You will see that Meals on Wheels continue to collect meals from the driveway between Medical and Dental and CRC.

The renovations are on track to be finalized by October or updated on these timelines as work progresses

As the works to complete the main entrance are finalised, the original hospital signage ‘Lisieux’ has been revealed. The hospital was named after St Therese of Lisieux, the patron saint of missionaries, florists, pilots and priests. Lisieux is a place of pilgrimage in France.

HybridHero

What is HybridHero?

HybridHero is our desk booking system which enables staff who work across campuses to make sure they always have somewhere to sit.

How do I book a desk?

Booking a desk has never been easier - simply jump onto the Intranet and select Desk Booking from the front page. You will need to enter your username (staff email) and password.

Once you have logged in and set up your profile you have access to the desks to book what you need.

Watch the video below to see how to book your desk and check in.

How often do I need to book a desk?

You only need to book a desk if you are working at a campus that you don’t normally work from and need to sit in a new location.

How do I know if a desk is available?

When booking in the desks that are available will be able to be selected. If you can’t select a desk, it has already been booked by someone else.

What if my work plans change?

If you are no longer in need of a booking, please adjust your bookings as soon as you know. This allows someone else to use that desk.

Staff Service Awards

Recognising years of service to the organisation. Life Governor Awarded at 30 years.

Each month there are a number of staff reaching significant milestones, don’t forget to congratulate them on their achievement.

Well done and thank you for your hard work and dedication!

September

Colleen Sim, 35 years

Christine Leskie, 20 years

Jacinta Kenny, 10 years

Mandy Beagley, 10 years.

Throwback: District Nurse Colleen Sim poses for a photo with a client.

Gul Alizadah

Lucie Redman

Lauren Ash

Sophie Styles

Lindsay Paice

Sharon Yarwood Taylor

Anneke Hardi

Amanjot Deol

Ansu Francis

New Dentist In Cobram!

Welcome to Dr. Omnia Bebers, our new Dentist at Cobram Dental Clinic

Dr. Omnia was born and raised in Cairo, Egypt, graduated from Ain Shams University in 2017 with a Bachelor Degree in Oral and Dental Surgery. She enjoys all areas of general dentistry, from preventive care to restorative treatments She has a special passion for paediatric care, where she does her best at making the experience fun and memorable for kids Outside of the clinic, she loves jogging and exploring nearby towns.

Agna Jose

Michelle Parish

Viola Bella

Amandeep Kaur

Paula Williams

Chriszel Francisco

Sheeja Manoj

Marika Moody

Venkata Godavari

Kelsey Tomafua

Peter Roa

Rebecca Armstrong

Georgia Zerbato

Katrina Brown

Litty Thomas

Celia Rayo

Kymberlee John

Cailun Black

A it W

REWARD AND RECOGNITION

Lynn Peterson - Medical Clinic Manager - Nathalia

Lynne continually goes above & beyond for her staff, Doctors & clients. She does this in a very kind & considerate way & always with a smile She never forgets anyone & treats everyone with the utmost respect.

Lisa Cassidy - Practice Nurse - Cobram Medical Clinic

On a number of days in August we were short staffed and Lisa quite often during the month had to work alone in the clinic with 3-4 doctors on some days. Lisa did this efficiently and effectively and always putting the patients first Well done Lisa and thank you

Amy O’Brien - Administration Assistant - Cobram

Amy has been employed in a new role of Community Nursing Admin supporting DNS, Pall Care and Midwives. Amy has made a significant impact on the team supporting our nurses and myself Amy has taken any new task given to her and worked with the team to improve the work flow and taken on all administration tasks which then gives our community nursing team more time with clients. Amy is a quick learner and shows all NCN Health values in any interaction with staff, clients and providers.

Fiona Currie - After Hours Manager - Cobram

Ensuring that nursing professionalism is upheld, that ethics are being met and instilling the importance of a positive work culture and environment

Barbara Crawford - Acute Administration Assistant - NCN Health

Barb is part of the team who are working on implementing the new Patient Administration System. This has been a significant process and Barb has remained enthusiastic and motivated to keep the initiative moving forward, on schedule and accessible to all staff. Barb is currently working on improving the training information to staff to ensure it is an smooth transition to the new system and to support managers and staff. Thanks Barb.

Salary Packaging 1-on-1 consultations

One of our highly trained Eziway consultants is visiting your location Book an appointment if you have any questions about Salary Packaging.

How does it work? Do I earn enough? How much can I save? Can I buy a new car?

Booking an Appointment

Workplace Trainer and Careers Advisor

People and Culture Officer

Admin Assistant

For these and more, visit the NCN Health website.

ncnhealthorgau/work-or-volunteer-at-ncn-health/current-vacancies/

Actions

I2023/2024

Psychologicalhealthand Psychologicalhealthand preventionofstress preventionofstress

RegularlypromoteEmployeeAssistanceProgramusageatorientation,instaffnews,ontheintranet andthroughmanagers

RegularlypromoteadditionalhealthandwellbeingresourcesofferedfreethroughEAP

Providedfreecoffeemorningateachcampustopromotewellbeingandsupportapositivework environment.

FacilitatedfreeyogaorPilatessessionsateachcampus. Organisedmassagesessionsforstaff.

FreegymsessionsforNCNStaffatNCNHealthNathaliaandNumurkah. Staffcelebrationdays.

PromotedRUOK?DayandprovidedfreeMentalHealthFirstAidTrainingopportunities.

RanPsychologicalHealthSurveytoallstafftoassistwithplanningforbettermentalhealthoutcomes atwork.

OccupationalViolence OccupationalViolence andAggression(OVA) andAggression(OVA)

ContinuedOVApracticaltraining program,mandatoryforallstaff

Collectedandcollatedfeedbackinorder toimprovesessionsandkeepthem relevant.

Planningunderwaytoimplement DementiaSpecificOVAsessionsforstaff

PromotingourValuesofRespect, AccountabilityandPartnership.

Seniorleadershipengagementwithall staff,throughstaffforums,huddles, feedbackportalsincludingCostSavings MeasuresundertheBudgetActionPlan.

AdaptingtheStaffWellbeingSWELL Programtocontinuetosupportstaff.

Celebratingourachievementsthrough thestaffRewardandRecognition Programandpromotionofthisinitiative

With 2024 Winter Sport Seasons coming to a close the awards are being handed out. Many NCN Health staff participate in local teams and competitions. Congratulations to everyone on their achievements in 2024, and here are some honourable mentions.

Congratulations to Ashlee Clifford who was C Grade Runner Up Best and Fairest at Cobram Football Netball Club

Congratulations to Nicole Hughes who was awarded Life Membership at Strathmerton Football Netball Club

And a special mention to Bronty McShane for taking home the B Grade Most Consistent Player for Cobram Football Netball Club.

Numurkah Ukulele Club visits

Karinya Karinya

Karinya Residents Day out Karinya Residents Day out

One of our wonderful residents families invited the residents around for afternoon tea. We decided to turn the afternoon into a bit of an excursion and took the residents on a bus journey through the countryside to see the crops in bloom too!

Nathalia Garden Roundabout Nathalia Garden Roundabout

With the support of local community groups, the gardens at the front of the NCN Health Nathalia hospital have had much needed attention.

Community members representing the Nathalia Senior Citizens Club, Women’s Health Group, Nathalia And District Garden Lovers Club (now defunct), Nathalia Rotary Club, Nathalia Hospital Auxiliary committee members, Consumer Representatives, volunteers along with operations and maintenance staff gathered to acknowledge each of their contributions They mingled over afternoon tea afterwards

The garden works at Nathalia campus is ongoing, other areas of the campus will be next in line for much needed ongoing attention.

Back Row: Ron Wilson, Veronica Wilson, Leeanne Caldwell, Laurel Dimond, Native Frangipani (in centre of roundabout), Ross Smith, Anthony Oliver.

Middle Row (standing): Kerry Rice, Joan Dohnt, Gayle Pemberton, Mary Barry, Moira Bourke, Dawn Bowen, Fay Brown

Front Row (seated): Christina Shepherd, Vic Dohnt, Veronica Morphett and Andrew Watson

Dental Discount for NCN Health staff located at Nathalia and Numurkah

10%

Staff must be in uniform or show their Staff ID Photo Card at the time of the appointment to receive the discount. Can only be used at the Numurkah practice. No discounts will be given post appointment

OH&S Report

Please forward all general OHS enquires to the NCNOHS@ncnhealth.org.au email rather than our teams personal emails, this email is well monitored and will ensure a prompt response.

Respiratory Fit Test queries can be emailed to NCNFitTest@ncnhealth.org.au

National Safe Work Month

National Safe Work Month, held annually in October, encourages all individuals and organisations to prioritise Work Health and Safety (WHS) and take preventative action to reduce the number of work-related injuries, illnesses and fatalities. The campaign aims to promote a positive safety culture and to emphasise the importance of good WHS practices. Each National Safe Work Month revolves around an annual safety-related theme and each week is dedicated to a particular WHS topic.

Safety is everyone’s business - This theme encapsulates a safe and healthy working environment as a fundamental principle and across all industries and occupations, while reinforcing the business benefit that comes from committing to safer workplaces. The theme emphasises the positive outcomes of good WHS risk management, highlighting individual, organisational and wider community benefit. Let's keep workers safe and healthy by ensuring WHS is core to how we do business. Each week of National Safe Work Month revolves around a different WHS topic. This year the weekly topics are:

Week 1: Work health and safety fundamentals

Week 2: Psychosocial hazards

Week 3: Risk management fundamentals

Week 4: Musculoskeletal injuries

Read more about each week on Safe Work Australia website weekly topics page.

OH&S Training

Dementia Australia[DA] are holding 2 sessions to provide staff working in our RAC’s with some skills and techniques de-escalate safely following a behavioural emergency The training will be held on the 20 and 21 November 2024 at Cobram and Numurkah Campus. Please discuss any queries you may have with your Manager as they have the full details;

At the completion of this session participants will be able to:

Recognise emotional and physical signs of escalation

Understand how increased stress impacts a person with dementia

Apply person-centred de-escalation skills

Contribute to debriefing to determine potential cause of behaviour

Reduce the risk of harm for both the person with dementia and staff

If you are interested in attending please discuss this with your Nurse Unit Manager.

Enrol by contacting our team directly at

Book an appointment via the NCN Health Intranet page under People & Culture/OHS

Snake Awareness

As the weather warms up it is important that you are aware of the hazard snakes pose around our campuses and what to do if you see one. Whilst you should be cautious in all areas around the campus, you should be especially mindful of the possibility of a snake encounter around the gardens and the bush areas of the buildings. Should you be on campus at night try to keep to the well-lit areas so you can see what you are walking on This is important as snakes tend to be attracted to pathways after dark as the pathways retain heat

If you see a snake –

Remain calm

DO NOT approach the snake

Move anyone in immediate danger and walk away slowly

Keep a safe distance so the snake does not feel threatened

Under no circumstances try to kill, capture or otherwise provoke a snake

If bitten call 000 immediately

Submit an incident report [VHIMS]

What to do if a snake is inside one of our facilities –

Remain calm

DO NOT approach the snake

Move anyone in immediate danger and walk away slowly

Keep a safe distance so the snake does not feel threatened

Call for assistance

Secure the area and prevent anyone entering the area

Place towels under any gaps under doors

Monitor the snakes movement at a safe distance

Open any external doors to allow the snake to freely exit the building

Under no circumstances try to kill, capture or otherwise provoke a snake

If bitten call 000 immediately

If the snake does not exit the building contact Victoria’s Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning [DELWP] on 136 186, they can provide a list of snake handlers in the area to assist with its relocation

Submit an incident report [VHIMS]

Respiratory Fit Test

Is your N95 Mask the correct one?

Did you know that you need a new fit test done at least every few years? You may need one sooner if you have had any changes.

WHEN DO I NEED A NEW TEST?

You can request a Respiratory Fit Test at any time - particularly is you have:

Significant weight loss or gain

Facial trauma/surgery

Scarring or cosmetic surgery/cosmetic procedures such as fillers

Extensive dental work including extractions and new dentures

Any concerns about the respirator you were previously fitted

HOW DO I BOOK A TEST

Appointments can be scheduled via the Intranet under the People and Culture tab.

RU RU

OK?D OK?D

On September 12 the Community Health team engaged with local schools as part of their R U OK? Day activations. We visited St Josephs in Cobram and St Mary of the Angels in Nathalia.

Both schools used the day to highlight mental health initiatives within the school communities and taught the students ways to help identify when friends and family might be struggling, along with teaching them ways to help and connect.

Footy Colours Day!

The NCN Health Social Club Billy Barrel Cash Prize winnersforSEPTEMBERARE... AmandaFelmingham SueHolland TerukoSmith AshWebb

Please organise to collect your $30 cash prize from Numurkah reception. You have 6 months to collect your winnings!!!

End of Year End of Year

13th

Sustainability Matters

The sustainability committee works on projects and initiatives which are designed to help reduce the NCN Health impact on the environment. Many initiatives that we are looking at will significantly reduce our overall impact, and help to reduce business costs.

Some of the initiatives that have commenced are:

Reduction of Single Use cups across campuses.

Assessing power and energy usage and reducing where possible.

Proper waste segregation.

We are always looking for feedback and new ideas. A survey has been set up for staff feedback. It takes less then 2 mins and all responses will go a long way to helping the committee achieve their goals.

Scan the QR Code to complete the Sustainability Survey.

Waste Segregation

WhatItemsbelongintheYellowBin? WhatItemsbelongintheRedBin?

DisposablePlates DisposablePlates Soileditems Soileditems

Every Tuesday and Thursday

Join Chelsey and Angela for free fitness classes at the NCN

Health Numurkah CH&W Gym

Our Programs

Cardio & Strength Circuit

Les Mills Body Balance

HIIT Tabata

Les Mills Body Combat

Metafit Boxing

MetaPWR

HIITSTEP

Numurkah Community

Health and Wellbeing Gym

Chelsey.Thorne@ncnhealth.org.au

Angela.Thorne@ncnhealth.org.au Angela.Thorne@ncnhealth.org.au

Meryula Clinic @ Numurkah

SERVICES

The Meryula Clinic is a free and confidential service run by GV Health and supported by NCN Health. The clinic is for all individuals within the region and is run by experienced nurses who specialise in sexual and reproductive health