In The Loop- October 2021

LOOP

IN THE

October 2021

SJOG.ORG.AU/SEM

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH Our McGrath Nurses are here to help

the importance of

MENTAL HEALTH in our community I AM WOMAN HEAR ME ROAR “Pelvic health issues impact a lot of women and while this makes it common, it’s far from normal”

CELEBRATING OUR PHYSIOTHERAPISTS And the important contribution they make to people’s lives

Welcome Lisa Norman

CEO, South East Melbourne Hospitals As we enter the last quarter of 2021, we can be forgiven for feeling like we’ve been stuck in a time-warp over the past 12 months – a kind of cruel version of Groundhog Day that we wake up to, wondering if we were ever actually released from Lockdown 2.0 on October 26, last year.

Since then, lockdowns three, four, and five have passed us by, making it progressively harder to remember when one started and another one ended. As they all merge together to bring us our sixth and latest version, hope has been increasingly difficult to muster up. And although vaccine rates are heading toward the illustrious ‘freedom’ finish line, I want to take the opportunity to share with you, that it’s okay to feel like you are running on empty when it comes to fuelling your tank with optimism.

This month is National Mental Health Month and its focus is on Post Pandemic Recovery Challenges and Resilience. I don’t know about you, but the reference to the pandemic being a thing of the past, feels a little bit like a kick in the guts for us, Victorians … who are very much still in the thick of it all and facing longer-lasting challenges than our interstate counterparts. Even if some parts of Australia have moved into a new pandemic era, I think it’s important for the rest of us to recognise that it’s a national campaign, and while some of its focus doesn’t apply to us, there is still much value in spreading the message that prioritising mental health remains extremely important.

We all exist somewhere on the spectrum between optimism and pessimism, relying on a pool of resources to draw on during stressful and challenging times that enable us to maintain a level of hope that we sit comfortably with. However, when we continually draw on these resources without the opportunity to refuel the tank, we end up with little left to give. And this is something Richard Bryant, Scientia Professor of

Psychology at UNSW and Director of UNSW Traumatic Stress Clinic, refers to as surge capacity.

“For good mental health, we need to be able to appreciate and enjoy the pleasure the positive aspects of life bring. And much of that was taken away during COVID, so that we haven’t been able to do the things we enjoy in order to refuel our tanks,” says Professor Bryant.

If this feeling of surge capacity resonates with you, I implore you to use Mental Health Month as a springboard to reach out and find ways to build resilience and learn appropriate coping mechanisms. Professor Bryant suggests maintaining contact with friends and family as a good first step, however when you can’t rely on these traditional methods to top up your tank anymore then consider accessing our fantastic EAP program available for caregivers and their immediate family members to use.

Facilitated by Converge International, the free and confidential counselling and support is available through Cora or by calling 1300 687 327. Up to six sessions per concern are provided by qualified professionals, including social workers, psychologists and management coaches.

The service is completely independent of SJGHC and comes at no expense to our caregivers.

Here’s hoping that the next quarter brings us more reasons to be optimistic. In the meantime, help is all around us. I encourage you to access it.

- Lisa Norman

FRANKSTON PHYSIO TEAM WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH... the physios get going When restrictions came back into full force with our latest Covid lockdown, Frankston Rehabilitation Hospital chose not to lock out its patients this time and made the decision to relocate its outpatient services to the hospital chapel instead.

“We got the call on a Monday afternoon advising us that we were going back into lockdown, so at the finish of the day we took on the massive job of moving the gym to the Bridget Clancy chapel in an effort to limit the risk of spreading Covid to our inpatients,” explains Taree Gibson, Manager Allied Health, who suggests that it’s always a risk inviting the public into a hospital environment.

It was no easy task moving heavy reformer machines, exercise bikes etc but the outpatients team rose to the challenge to ensure people could keep progressing with their rehab goals. “The last time we went into lockdown and had to close the unit, we had overwhelming feedback from our patients who described a deterioration of not only their physical health but their mental wellbeing too,” shares Taree.

Staying well into the evening, physiotherapist, Jen Reid was committed to getting everything set up and ready to go – and she did so, with no delay to scheduling the following morning. “Jen was instrumental in the relocation of the gym. Everybody worked together to get the job done, but Jen just went that extra mile to make sure it was a smooth transition for all of our staff and clients,” says Taree who notes that the move has been met with open arms by outpatients. “It’s actually a really fun environment. It’s a hum of activity and there’s a real vibe in the chapel with music playing, people laughing and joking about doing their rehab a little closer to God – it’s been a real conversation starter,” she jokes.

IN THE

SPOTLIGHT Although the team is monitoring the situation daily, Taree says that they will do everything they can to remain open throughout this lockdown in accordance with the health guidelines. “We’re very dedicated to staying open. Our patients form tight bonds with caregivers, as well as other patients, so shutdowns really impact them socially. For some patients, they just look forward to getting out of the house. Other patients enjoy catching up with each other,” says Taree. “They really get to know each other. They discuss each other’s progress, share tips on gardening, they even borrow garden tools from each other.”

Taree credits the cohesion to the hard work and commitment of her team. “There’s Tuffy wipes everywhere,” she laughs. “The team are wearing eyewear, surgical masks … they’re constantly wiping every touch point and maintaining social distancing. The whole team just pitches in and gets things done. And they’re happy to do it because they truly want to stay open for the benefit of their clients.”

The outpatients unit is made up of approximately 30 caregivers with physios, occupational therapists, speech therapists, dieticians, exercise physiologists and admin staff coming together to help their patients meet their rehab goals.

DAY PROCEDURE UNIT With around 300-350 patient admissions to Berwick Hospital’s Day Procedure Unit (DPU) each week, manager, Aji Flower has had to learn how to run a fairly tight ship.

“We have the highest intake of patients, and with 60% of them being day patients it means we must provide the safest and highest quality care in the shortest amount of time,” explains Aji in reference to the fact that the majority of DPU patients are both admitted and discharged on the same day, sometimes only a few hours apart.

The DPU is home to 20 patient bays including eight pre-op, 10 post-op and two endoscopy PACU (Post Anaesthesia Care Unit) bays. Between the high intake of elective surgery patients and managing a team of 30 staff members, Aji finds the work they do to be extremely challenging some days, however the consistently positive feedback they receive from their patients makes their job, and the very fast-paced nature of it, rewarding and worthwhile. “Our unit gets the most patient feedback across the hospital with more than 80 per cent of it positive,” says Aji proudly.

IN THE

SPOTLIGHT Not only is it a very busy place to be and work in, DPU caregivers do not adhere to the exact same admission and discharge process for each and every patient. In fact, hundreds of doctors operate through SJGBH and each of them have their own likes and dislikes, which means there can be contrasting pre-op and post-op instructions for the very same procedure. “The team works very closely with the preadmissions and theatre teams in order to make sure all patients are assessed and prepared for theatre as per each surgeon’s preferences,” shares Aji. “We are a diverse and ambitious team though, and we get excited about what we do and how we do it.

We’re very proud of our achievements,” she adds.

Educating caregivers and ensuring that they are up-todate with new protocols and procedures is emphasised in this department. In order to facilitate this and better optimise the care delivered, staff are encouraged to observe procedures in the theatre (with patient consent). Every DPU caregiver gets the opportunity to learn new skills such as PACU training — the specialised skills required in endo PACU. The DPU constantly seeks

Grayson, Rhiannon, Erin, Belinda and Bianca from Berwick Hospital’s DPU showcasing the new scrubs that have replaced outdated hospital uniforms.

St John of God South East Melbourne Hospitals

opportunities to improve its services from the feedback it receives from patients, doctors and caregivers. Aji believes that her unit “strives for excellence in all aspects of work.”

Despite the difficulties that have arisen as a result of the pandemic, the DPU team has stepped up to the challenge in more ways than one. “Some days are so busy,” says Aji. “Often our caregivers will clock up 10,000 steps (approx 8kms) three or four hours into their shift.”

The loss of volunteers during Covid has meant that PCAs (Personal Care Assistants) and nurses have had to take on their role as well. “Patients used to have family members there to support them, to take them to their cars or provide company while they wait,” explains Aji. “Now our DPU caregivers have had to take on that role instead.”

With directives changing daily, the DPU had to keep abreast of the constant changes. “It was stressful,” admits Aji. “Not just for our caregivers but for patients as well. Anxiety levels were high among patients as their support people were no longer permitted to accompany them into the DPU.” Caregivers had to take on the role of comforter and even on top of the distance they’d normally travel in a single shift, they now had to keep patients comfortable after surgery, providing tea, coffee, food and blankets, and escort patients to waiting cars — tasks usually assisted by volunteers.

Even as lockdowns ensued and elective surgery cases put on hold, the DPU never experienced any significant downturn in admissions. “We just got busier,” states Aji. “We didn’t have to stand anyone down or deploy staff to other units. Theatre was taking on Monash Health’s theatre list, helping out with the urgent and essential public hospital cases.”

Belinda Barnard, an enrolled nurse in the DPU agrees.

“It’s a great little family. Everyone is really supportive of each other, inside and outside of work. I came from another hospital and I’ve never experienced this kind of team spirit before,” offers Belinda. “When someone is sick, or something awful happens to a member of our team, we all come together to help out and show our support, whether that be through organising food packages or vouchers, or just being there for a chat or a shoulder to cry on.”

DPU team consists of a NUM, ANUMs, ward clerk, RNs, ENs and PCAs who are all highly skilled at providing preand post-operative care to the patients of many diverse specialities, including general and plastic surgeries and vascular, gynaecology, colorectal, urology, ENT (ear, nose and throat), ophthalmology, dental, neurological, orthopaedics, gastroenterology and pain services procedures.

Aji Flower Day Procedure Unit Manager

When asked what makes the DPU team so special, Aji gushes about how supportive the team is and how every team member is working to achieve the same goals.

“There is just such a beautiful team culture in DPU. We aim to make sure every patient has the best experience and receives the best care possible, because we care for our patients in the same way we’d want to be cared for ourselves.”

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Caregiver profile

JENNIFER REID

Physiotherapist, Frankston Hospital Jen wears many hats outside of her physiotherapy duties at Frankston Hospital. A tutor for Monash University, avid fitness fanatic and a fosterer of dogs, (special needs ones to boot), Jen claims that she still has time to laze about on the couch and catch up on her favourite reality TV shows. But you’d be mistaken if you thought that doesn’t leave her any time for anything else, Jen also has her own business which sees her making signage and stationary for events as a side hustle.

How long have you been working at SJOG? I started working at SJOG in June 2018 — just over three years if I have my maths correct!

What was your previous role? I worked in various private practices on the Mornington Peninsula for seven years.

Do you live locally? Did you grow up in the area? Yes, I was born in Frankston and while I swore I would leave after I finished uni I never did! I currently live in Mornington.

Very fortunate to live in such a beautiful part of the world.

Spouse? Kids? Dogs? Pets? I am currently engaged and am hoping to get married next year (if COVID allows). My partner is a firefighter and a great human. We have a three year old German shepherd named Freddie and have just started fostering for German Shepherd Rescue Victoria — we currently are looking after a six month old special needs German shepherd called Yogi. He is divine but his front legs don’t work properly so I am putting my physio skills to use at home!

What did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to be a shopkeeper! And I also wanted to run like Cathy Freeman.

What is something you are good at? My partner and friends will say talking! And making patients laugh — I try not to be very serious!!

What takes up most of your time outside of work? I am a fitness fanatic — I spend my time going to the gym, running, or cycling. I also have a side business which keeps me busy on the weekends — I make signage and stationary for events. Also I love watching reality TV shows — it’s a great way to unwind.

What’s your favourite thing to do on a weekend? Do a gym session, walk the dogs with my partner to get a coffee down the main street of Mornington and then spending time with friends (when COVID allows). My weekend is my downtime too so there’s a bit of lazing around on the couch.

Do you play an instrument? If not, what would you like to learn to play? Yes, I play the piano and have done so since I was five.

Are you an introvert or an extrovert? Most people won’t believe this, but I am an introvert. I am pretty outgoing and bubbly at work (that’s part of the role of being a physio)

but I really thrive on my downtime at home and being away from people at times.

Do you have any phobias? I really hate sharks and snakes.

What has been your favourite holiday? When I went to the World Champs in Mexico for a triathlon — I love Mexico — what a place!! I then got to visit my friends and family in the USA — another great place.

If you could pick anywhere else in the world to go, where would it be? The Maldives — it’s on the list (hopefully for our honeymoon), and when the country opens back up, we will be going!

What’s your favourite season? I love autumn/winter/ spring — not summer. I’m very pale and the sun loves to burn me. I also really like wearing very comfortable loungewear at home and being all toasty and warm!

Have you ever met anyone famous? I partied with the brother off of Everyone Loves Raymond in Vegas — does that count?

What show are you currently binge-watching? Below Deck — Mediterranean.

What skill do you think you could improve on? I could definitely improve on saying no to more things!

Sometimes I just want to please people and forget about balance.

What’s something you’re really bad at? I am really bad at using power tools. I always ruin something — my partner won’t let me go anywhere near them.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be? I would probably have been more competitive with my sport at a younger age — who knows where that would have gotten me? I’m getting too old to be serious about it now!

Who do you look up to at work? There is not just one individual — I have a really good team who are great to work with and I think I can learn something from all of them.

Are you a morning person or night owl? I am a morning person — I never sleep-in. I do all my best work at 5am.

What was your first paying job? Check-out chick at Coles — the dream!

St John of God South East Melbourne Hospitals

I AM WOMAN HEAR ME

ROAR ...

Jean Hailes Women’s Health Week was held last month and as such, we took the opportunity to talk to our SJGHC professionals about an issue that affects nearly half of all Australian women — pelvic floor dysfunction.

Fortunately, St John of God Health Care’s (SJGHC) SEM hospitals can help through a variety of non-invasive, as well as, surgical techniques.

For women with less chronic pelvic health issues, physiotherapy is a great option to start with. SJOG Frankston Rehabilitation Hospital’s Active Health and Wellbeing (AHW) program has, not only been designed to help people handle their sports injuries, ongoing management of chronic conditions and overall wellbeing, it has two physiotherapists available who are expertly trained in pelvic health.

Giselle Sharples, physiotherapist at Frankston Hospital says, “We can help everyone, men included.

But as far as women’s health is concerned, we have trained professionals who specialise in bladder, bowel, prolapse, sexual dysfunction, chronic pelvic pain, preand postnatal care, pelvic musculoskeletal issues, and women-specific issues such as menopause, polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis etc — basically anything in the pelvic region.”

Pelvic health affects quality of life significantly and although women make up 80 per cent of people affected by conditions, such as urinary incontinence, pelvic health issues are still a sensitive topic to broach. “A lot of issues are still taboo and women can be uncomfortable speaking about them or asking for help,” explains Giselle.

“Pelvic health issues impact a lot of women and while this makes it common, it’s far from normal.”

With access to physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and dietetic services, patients can access the expertise of health professionals through the AHW program, without the

except if you have pelvic issues, then go and see a doctor

need to get a referral from their GP. “The great thing about our AHW program is that pelvic health physiotherapy is accessible to every woman (and man). All you need to do is call to make an appointment,” says Giselle, adding that, “You can even get appointments the same day at times.” While the program doesn’t only treat pelvic floor issues, the pelvic health physios are available Tuesdays and Fridays, with musculoskeletal and neuro physios available on the other days of the week. “Initial appointments go for one hour and can be accessed through private health insurance, an EPC (enhanced primary care) plan from a GP, NDIS cover or can be patient-funded. “There are a lot of pelvic health issues that our physios can improve or prevent,” offers Giselle.

“We’re here to help women live their best life. Just give us a call, we can help.”

While many pelvic health issues can be treated through a variety of non-invasive techniques, prolapses and urinary incontinence are often treated through surgery. Dr Natharnia Young is a urogynaecologist at St John of God Berwick Hospital who specialises in helping women regain their pelvic health and improve their quality of life. “I deal with a lot of women with prolapse and urinary incontinence issues who need surgery to correct their pelvic problems,” says Natharnia. “Usually my patients have seen a physio first but unfortunately haven’t seen enough improvement so their next step is to see me.”

With one in four adults experiencing incontinence and 70 per cent of them not seeking advice and treatment for their problem – that’s a lot of people St John of God can help. Natharnia explains that there are two types of urinary incontinence – stress, which occurs through laughing, running, jumping etc. and overactive bladders which usually means a patient feels the urge to urinate but can’t get to the toilet in time.

Natharnia can provide a solution to this problem if you are bothered by incontinence and it affects your lifestyle.

For mild urgency and urge incontinence, Natharnia

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recommends that, “We should practice good bladder habits by balancing our intake of fluids, especially tea and coffee. Both are bladder irritants and cause you to urinate more. The best way to combat this is to reduce your caffeine intake and only drink one to two cups a day.”

Drinking too much water can also exacerbate the problem. “We have a sippy-cup habit where we see people walking around with drink bottles full of water believing that drinking copious amounts is good for us.

It’s not. Three to four litres of water a day is way too much, we should aim for one and a half to two litres instead.”

Natharnia also recommends incorporating regular pelvic floor exercises into each day to help strengthen pelvic muscles. “We should be aiming to do 10 sets twice a day by squeezing and holding the muscle for five to 10 seconds at a time.”

and see your GP. This is not something you have to live with,” says Natharnia. “If you are having recurrent urinary infections this can also be a sign of prolapse because an infection can occur when the bladder is not emptying fully.”

Along with the AHW program, Natharnia says there are other non-surgical options available. “If simple measures of dietary changes and pelvic floor exercises do not resolve your problem there are medications to aid urgency and urge incontinence, as well as acupuncture devices. If you have stress urinary incontinence (leakage with a cough, sneeze or exercise) simple non-surgical treatment options also exist, such as using a tampon or a continence pessary (a silicon device that can be inserted into the vagina).”

Giselle agrees, “Nobody has to suffer through pelvic issues. There are lots of options available to help and the services at St John of God hospitals are a great place to start.”

It’s also helpful to know some of the early signs of pelvic floor issues. “If you feel a lump, bulge, or heaviness in your vagina or have difficulty emptying your bowels, go

CELEBRATING

OUR PHYSIOTHERAPISTS

and the important contribution they make to people’s lives

Kristian Clancy spent the first four years of his 30s confined to his bed. With two bulging discs pressing on his nervous system resulting in constant debilitating pain down his right leg, Kristian underwent a disc decompression early last year. While this helped ease the pain initially, it quickly became evident that Kristian would need to find a better solution to his pain.

After enduring a complete disc replacement and disc fusion, Kristian was advised not to do physiotherapy for three months following surgery. However after doing his own research and talking to friends, Kristian convinced his surgeon to send him to St John of God Health Care’s (SJGHC) outpatient rehabilitation program.

Although initially Kristian wanted to access SJGHC Frankston Rehabilitation Hospital because of the sole focus it has on rehab and the access it provides to

hydrotherapy, he ultimately chose SJGHC’s Berwick campus due to the proximity of the hospital to his home and his inability to drive for six weeks post-surgery.

It’s a choice he doesn’t regret. “I had a team around me of physios, exercise physiologists and occupational therapists who all worked to help me understand what my body limitations were and how to adjust my personal expectations to meet my rehab goals.”

Through a robust exercise program, Kristian was able to regularly move the goal posts during his rehabilitation journey. “My walking went from making it to the nearest roundabout (500m) to exceeding that goal and making it to the second which was about 1.2 kms in total. From there I was able to walk around a short block of about 1.4 kms with inclines and declines, to more recently tackling a larger block of 3.4 kms. While I often found the

St John of God South East Melbourne Hospitals

rehabilitation program tiring, I was amazed to see what I could actually do with my body.”

Throughout the 11 session outpatient program Kristian noticed steady improvement to his physical health and capabilities. “One of the exercise tests that we did was to stand up and sit down as quickly as you can within 30 seconds. The first time I did that test I managed 14, by the time I finished the program, I was able to do 24.”

Kristian reflects that his rehabilitation experience has been eye-opening in more ways than one, but believes that without physiotherapy as an option for his recovery, he wouldn’t have achieved such positive results.

“Physiotherapy is important for everyday life. I never really realised the impact that a good physical life could have on me until I couldn’t be physically active anymore.

Mentally I am in a much better place because I now know what I can do with my body. I can track progress and monitor how I’m improving over time. When my spine issues started to make life harder for me, I genuinely had no understanding of what physiotherapists could do or what they could actually offer to help me.”

It’s likely Kristian isn’t alone with his initial lack of understanding, “I did not understand that muscle manipulation through massage can help with muscular issues, nor did I understand the exercise techniques that physiotherapists use to aid recovery,” admits Kristian adding that, “I suspect many people also have that lack of knowledge—I certainly know my surgeons didn’t appear to understand the benefits of physiotherapy

in my particular case. Learning this has truly been revolutionary for me, not just because I can now see what I can do, but I can understand my body better now.

If that isn’t important, then I don’t know what is.”

But it wasn’t just his physical health that was being positively impacted throughout the rehab process, Kristian noticed a marked improvement to his mental health and wellbeing also. “St John of God Berwick Hospital has got a superbly collegial team who support each other and all of their clients. It didn’t happen often, but if I wasn’t in a great mood before, the team definitely contributed to me walking out the door with a better mindset,” credits Kristian. “I was genuinely sad when I had to say goodbye because I knew I wouldn’t be seeing these amazing people again … knock on wood.”

Through the success of his participation in SJGBH’s outpatient rehab program, and through the support of his allied health team, Kristian is looking forward to returning to some of the activities he used to love. While singing doesn’t appear to be an activity that relies too heavily on being physically active, Kristian notes that due to his mobility issues he has been unable to continue to sing with the Channel Nine Carols by Candlelight Choir for the past few years. “It’s my biggest hope that I will be lucky enough to be invited back to the chorus for this year’s carols,” he says. “Physiotherapy has given me back my ability to move and that has made my dream of singing with the choir a possibility again. For that, I am truly grateful.”

The Berwick Hospital Rehab Team.

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MENTAL HEALTH MONTH: the importance of

MENTAL HEALTH in our community

The provision of mental health services is constantly adapting to meet the requirements of those who need it. Since the onset of Covid-19 in early 2020, demand for mental health practitioners has never been greater. In response to this, the Australian Government expanded its telehealth services to allow Australians the opportunity to seek help over the phone or via videoconferencing methods despite being restricted by consistent lockdowns. The government also announced additional funding for crisis lines, digital and online services, and support for healthcare professionals.

Although it didn’t take a pandemic for St John of God Health Care to recognise the increased need for mental health services in the Casey/Cardinia region, it has helped to illustrate why the former Berwick hospital site was chosen as the location for its new mental health facility long before Covid hit.

Set to open in mid-2022, the 60-bed mental health hospital will be a positive addition to the community, and an area of health care which will complement the existing options available in the area.

Given mental health conditions are extremely common, with one in five (20 per cent) Australians aged 16-85 experiencing some form of mental illness each year, it’s a health care service that SJGHC is proud to be providing.

Figures from the Black Dog Institute suggest that 75 per cent of people who access mental health inpatient care improve significantly – with early intervention being the key to providing immediate and long-term positive outcomes.

The statistics are similar for new parents with research revealing that one in five mothers of children aged two and under are being diagnosed with depression. It’s not just mothers, however, men can also experience depression or anxiety during and following the birth of their baby – that number reflects one in 10 dads.

It’s another area of mental health that isn’t adequately serviced in Melbourne’s south east at this time, and another area of demand that SJGHC is planning to meet with the introduction of a dedicated perinatal mental health wing in its new Langmore Centre facility.

Issues associated with perinatal mental health are very treatable and SJGHC can rely on its long history of providing specialised mental health care to help those affected in our local area.

Research shows that people who maintain a high level of mental health generally experience increased learning, creativity and productivity. According to Beyond Blue, they also exhibit more pro-social behaviour and positive social relationships, with improved physical health and life expectancy. In contrast, mental health conditions can cause distress, impact on day-to-day functioning and relationships, and can contribute to poor physical health and premature death. With the right professional support and access to effective treatments, patients can expect to get the help they need to live a better life. SJGHC is proud to be opening the Langmore Centre and know the hospital team will be able to provide the very best care and support to the local community.

St John of God South East Melbourne Hospitals

OCTOBER 2021

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE LANGMORE CENTRE It’s been an exciting couple of months with construction at the Langmore Centre kicking off in August. I’m pleased to announce that our builder has been selected as Kane Construction. Originally based in Melbourne, Kane has become a leading mid-tier construction company with experience across a number of sectors, including commercial, infrastructure, health, and schools. This also continues our existing partnership between St John of God Health Care (SJGHC) and Kane who was the builder for both the SJGHC Geelong Hospital and SJGHC Bendigo Hospital redevelopments.

Throughout August, Kane has commenced on site establishment, services investigation and demolition, along with the procurement of all the relevant trades, while understanding and working through the existing conditions of the building. This, simply put, means the documentation and design matches the existing facility which requires a lot of collaboration. Fortunately a good working relationship has been established between SJGHC, Kane and our consultants to provide a seamless transition through the initial phase of the project.

Initial work has begun on the footings for the new perinatal structure which will link to the existing ground floor layout. This is planned to continue through the rest of the year with most of the structural components to be completed by early 2022. The bulk of the work is being conducted internally with the removal of a number of existing walls, ceilings and services. The builder is eagerly progressing to create a couple of ‘mock’ bedrooms which will help selected caregivers, not only review and sign-off from a design perspective, but more importantly analyse the bedrooms from a harm minimisation perspective — a vital consideration in the construction of mental health facilities. Our relationship with Kane has so far been very positive and collaborative as they understand the needs of SJGHC in providing a state of the art private mental health hospital.

Lastly, SJGHC Pinelodge have commenced regular meetings and established working groups in an effort to be prepared and operationally ready for our planned ‘go-live’ date in July-August next year. This includes a full review of all of our current processes, with any departmental or operational changes to be considered and piloted prior to the move to the Langmore Centre.

There is much excitement amongst the team in identifying ways to help with a smooth transition, as well as recognise opportunities for improvements to our service delivery. This will ensure that all caregivers are adequately prepared and trained to care for our patients at the Langmore Centre next year.

Looking forward to bringing you more news and photos as we progress through the build over the next few months.

Evan Rundell Clinical Redevelopment Manager

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Demolition begins on the interior of the old theatre area

Timber cladding removal off western facade

Demolition of the old birth suite (future adult mental health bedrooms and therapy spaces)

Construction of perinatal footings (over staff carpark) Old theatre corridor, including demolition of Theatre 1 & 2 (future perinatal unit bedrooms and therapy areas)

Ambulance bay entrance (view from Gloucester Ave)

St John of God South East Melbourne Hospitals

Demolition of the old nursery and surgical bedroom (future lounge room area for adult mental health ward)

Northern old surgical ward bedroom (future adult mental health ward bedroom)

Old day surgery admission area, ‘Qantas Lounge’ (Future patient dining room)

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a marriage made in

MENTAL HEALTH HEAVEN

It’s a startling fact when you think about it; one in five Australians will experience an alcohol, drug or gambling disorder in their lifetime. Furthermore, one in seven will go on to develop an addiction—the severest form of disorder.

When you couple that with the fact that 40-80 per cent of Victorians who seek help for mental illness, also experience issues with substance abuse, you’ve quite often got a relationship that ends in what’s called dual diagnosis.

In many cases, it’s hard to tell which problem came first — did the mental illness lead the person to misuse drugs or did the drug problem cause the person’s decline in mental health? Whatever the case may be, when we apply these stats to our lives and the people closest to us, it’s likely that we have a number of people in our close friendship circles or in our families who suffer from not only mental health issues, but addiction as well. This chronic health condition occurs when someone is unable to stop consuming a drug or activity, even if it is causing physical or psychological harm and affecting their lives.

Addiction is a leading preventable cause of injury, illness and death in Australia and affects all age groups, across all communities, so it’s unlikely that six degrees of separation exists between yourself and people managing addictions in their everyday lives. An evolutionary psychologist from Oxford University, Dr Robin Dunbar, ascertained through various studies that humans are only capable of maintaining up to 150 friends and acquaintances before big groups of connections split off or collapse. That means it’s highly possible that 30 of the people you connect and socialise with are either suffering (or have suffered) from an alcohol, drug or gambling disorder at some point in their life.

If we drill down further, Dunbar has determined that we tend to have a cluster of about 10 close friends who

are part of our most important support network and five very close friends who round out our inner circle. That means it’s possible that one of your closest friends is experiencing a disorder and if you widen that scope to your support network as well, you’d likely find at least one other friend is suffering from an addiction disorder of some kind.

Scary stats when you personalise them. What’s more remarkable is that if addiction and alcohol, drug and gambling disorders are so common among our friendship groups why does the stigma surrounding this disease remain?

While other health disorders such as depression and/ or anxiety have made headway as far as widespread acceptance and demystifying the concept, little progress has been made in removing the taboo around substance use disorders—largely due to the public perception that addiction is a result of moral weakness and flawed character. Simply, often people living with addiction are blamed for their disease despite the consensus among medical professionals that their condition is a complex brain disorder with behavioural components.

Ironically, the stigma that exists can actually enhance or reinstate drug use and plays a key part in the vicious addiction cycle. Even when people overcome their disorders or addictions they are under constant surveillance and judgement for relapse. Other chronic health conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure have equally high rates of relapse and yet society doesn’t shame a person with high blood pressure for eating a French fry or a person with diabetes for having chocolate cake.

“It’s important to know that there are resources available to help you or a loved one combat a substance

St John of God South East Melbourne Hospitals

use disorder or addiction,” explains Dr Muhammad Usman Riaz, an addiction psychiatrist at St John of God Health Care’s Pinelodge Clinic—a mental health facility in Dandenong which provides wellness and recovery options for people with acute mental health and addiction conditions. “The first thing to understand is that a person with a substance use disorder is unlikely to seek help if they don’t recognise that they have a problem or are not ready to confront it.”

Usman recommends seeing your GP for a referral to an appropriate drug and alcohol addiction program if you or your loved one needs some support. “At Pinelodge we have both inpatient and outpatient programs that are designed to help you address the physical, emotional and social factors associated with substance abuse or drug and/or alcohol addiction.”

outpatient group programs which focus on relapse prevention after discharge. Based on cognitive behaviour therapy, the day programs are designed to equip patients with the skills needed to beat addiction through therapies such as mindfulness, and acceptance and commitment therapy.

“We acknowledge that the treatment of addiction can quite often be met with relapse, which is a normal part of recovery,” admits Usman. “However one does not have to be alone on this journey. As an expert mental health provider, we at Pinelodge are here to support our clients as they work through addiction and relapse, and onto the brighter, healthier and happier side of recovery.”

To understand how Pinelodge can help someone with a substance use disorder, contact (03) 8793 9444 for more information and additional resources.

Led by experienced therapy teams which may include, psychologists, psychiatrists, counsellors, registered nurses and other allied health professionals, treatment programs aim to understand individual triggers, equip patients with the skills and techniques to control their addictions, learn how to handle stress and develop a capacity to deal with life’s challenges. “Families are also included in the treatment and recovery program so that they have access to the appropriate information and support sessions that will enable them to help better manage their loved one’s recovery journey,” says Usman.

Inpatient programs at Pinelodge include a 21 or 28day stay in hospital and provide a patient with the opportunity to access a mix of individual and groupbased therapies. To access the inpatient program, a GP referral is needed with costs covered by most private health insurers depending on a patient’s level of cover.

The clinic also offers ongoing support through

Dr Muhammad Usman Riaz Addiction psychiatrist and Director of Medical Services at SJGHC Pinelodge Clinic

IN THE LOOP - OCTOBER 2021

15

In The Loop

SCOOP Calling all caregivers working with cancer patients Are you aware that SJGHC has a scholarship fund that supports continued learning of its caregivers who provide cancer care to our patients? Whether you are a cancer or palliative care nurse, pastoral care practitioner or allied health worker involved in oncology rehabilitation etc., SJGHC in partnership with the Platt family, offers financial support to eligible caregivers of up to $5000 for personal and professional development in the field of cancer care.

“As a young nurse in a complex speciality, I am excited to learn as much as possible about oncology nursing, while building up more experiences along the way,” says Kerri Bone, registered nurse, and a worthy recipient of the Dorothy Platt Cancer Care Scholarship Fund. Kerri, who chose to put some of the money she received toward short courses in chemotherapy, admits that being able to access nursing education at Peter Mac - one of the biggest and best cancer organisations in Victoria – has not only helped her update her skills, she’s been able to take her learnings and implement new processes and procedures, in order to provide the best possible care to her patients.

Funding is generally approved to cover 50 per cent of the total cost of each scholarship awarded, but will not exceed $5000 overall and cannot be accessed by caregivers more than once a year. To be eligible to apply, caregivers must be permanent full-time or part-time employees for a minimum of 12 months prior to applying. Applicants must also have completed 100 per cent of their mandatory training at the time of submission. Scholarship funding will be considered for tertiary, short course and online study, conference/ educational/academic event attendance, R&D participation and in-house professional development training. Recipients of the award can also count hours of study or professional development towards the NMBA and CPD requirements.

Interested caregivers can get further information and apply through Lisa Marchetti, Berwick Hospital’s Day Oncology NUM. Details of the scholarship can also be found on Cora. Applications are then considered and approved by the HMC with consideration given to a higher percentage of funding for cases of financial hardship. Lisa can be contacted on 8784 5568 or via email at lisa.marchetti@sjog.org.au.

“These courses have helped me immensely in accessing the best chemotherapy-based educational courses,” believes Kerri. “I have learned so much about chemotherapy and immunotherapy medications, as well as adverse effects, oncological emergencies, and the administering and handling of cytotoxic medications. While the list goes on, this has helped me to provide best practice to all my patients.”

Rhonda O’Connor, Director of Mission Integration across SEM explains, “the scholarship reflects the intent of the Mission, Vision and Values of St John of God Health Care and is aligned in its purpose to the previous and discontinued—Sisters of St John of God Staff Fellowship Fund established in 2002. “We’ve been very fortunate to have the support of the Platt family,” says Rhonda, adding gratefully that, “since its inception, they’ve donated a total of $75,000 to the fund.”

The scholarship, named after family matriarch, Dorothy — a much-loved patient of Berwick Hospital’s Day Oncology Unit until she passed away from her battle with cancer in 2019 — provides not only educational support, but it enhances SJGHC’s overall commitment to broaden its caregivers’ skills, knowledge, expertise and competence for the betterment of its cancer patients. Even caregivers transitioning into the specialty of oncology care can apply.

Stan Platt (pictured second from left, back row) celebrates Kerri Bone (bottom right) being awarded a Dorothy Platt scholarship.

New SEM L&D team announced Following in the footsteps of many other SEM departments, the Learning and Development (L&D) teams that used to work independently of each other have recently restructured to become one cohesive team. This new alignment allows the SEM L&D team to pool resources and share the skills, knowledge and experience of its team members across each of our hospital sites. SEM L&D manager, Janet McAllister is thrilled to have the opportunity to collaborate with her colleagues with a clearer organisational focus, “This is an exciting opportunity and time for the L&D team. As a newly formed group we are in a unique position to ensure that we serve the needs of SEM hospital caregivers, while supporting SJGHC’s strategic corporate goals.”

With no time to waste, the L&D team have already begun implementing a number of new learning opportunities for caregivers, such as the Deteriorating Paediatric Patient, Maternity Fundamentals program.

“What we have done so far has been well-received and has motivated us to work on a caregiver needs analysis survey so that we can focus on our learning and development calendar over the next 12 – 18 months,” explains Janet. “By doing this we can address caregiver and organisational needs, while ensuring that we can remain agile and nimble to the ever changing healthcare environment.”

The SEM L&D team work closely with the SEM executive team, managers and Group L&D to collaborate and identify learning opportunities, such as fundamental programs that introduce peri-operative services, and maternity and paediatrics. Janet says that, “plans are under way to expand these to cover other specialists areas such as oncology, acute medical, surgical, nursing and critical care for example.

We are also aiming to provide non-clinical learning and development opportunities as well.”

Janet currently manages are team of seven caregivers which includes, Berwick-based; Jen Hislop (educator for 2E), Abbie Davis (clinical nurse facilitator), Lori Ogilvie (educator for maternity), Carey Haggerty (educator for oncology) and Lynette May (administration support).

At Frankston, Deirdre Phelan has the role of clinical nurse facilitator, while Chapa Hearth works as the L&D coordinator from Pinelodge. The arrival of a perioperative educator who is currently held up in New Zealand, will take Janet’s team to eight, with a surgical educator position awaiting to be filled which will cover 3E, 4E and Critical Care.

Top Left: Janet McAlister, Abbie Davis, Lori Ogilvie, Carey Haggert, Lyn May and Chapa Herath Mudiyanselage. (Missing: Jen Hislop and Deidre Phelan.)

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: It’s time to put the focus back onto you We spend much of our lives as caregivers advocating for other people’s health — it’s the epitome of what we live and breathe at work whether you are a nurse, administration officer or chef in our hospital kitchens.

We have some of the best health resources at our fingertips and while we use those resources to care for others, we often times don’t take the opportunity to use them to focus on ourselves.

Have you heard about our fantastic McGrath Nurses, Katie Cao and Liz Douglass? The McGrath Foundation teams up with SJGHC to provide free access to McGrath Breast Care Nurses who are specially trained to provide physical, emotional and psychosocial support to people with breast cancer and their families. They also play an important advocacy role to help people with breast cancer navigate through the complex and overwhelming journey that lies ahead of them.

“It’s so important to be aware of any changes in your breasts,” informs Katie. “And if you do find yourself on the other end of a cancer diagnosis, we will be there

to provide support and care from the time of diagnosis, throughout treatment and beyond.”

SJGHC also offers a range of services for people diagnosed with breast cancer from surgery, chemotherapy, pain and symptom management, to pastoral care, outpatient groups for physical and emotional wellbeing and allied health support such as access to social workers, dietitians, case managers, occupational therapists, physiotherapists and pharmacists.

In addition SJGHC has formed a partnership with Berwick Integrated Care to produce the Breast Care Clinic; A rapid, fast tracked clinic for people who have found a lump or who are experiencing any changes to their breasts. The clinic gives patients access to testing and screening results within five days and, if required, a breast care surgeon and one of our McGrath nurses.

To access the clinic, ask your GP for a referral or call 9769 7227.

McGrath Nurses, Katie Cao and Liz Douglass

Community wig service is making a comeback After pausing the community wig service earlier this year, Day Oncology is delighted to announce that this free service has reopened its doors at Stephensons House on Gibb Street, Berwick. Established in 2016, the wig loan service is available to anyone in the community experiencing cancer related hair loss, and has already assisted hundreds of people in maintaining their self-esteem while they progress through their cancer journey.

The best part is clients don’t have to be a patient of St John of God to access this service, it is available to anybody in Melbourne’s south east region and appointments can be made directly or through GP referral or oncology specialist.

Managed by caregiver, Di Hatch, the service is

operated by professionally trained wig-fitters and is entirely funded by the generous donations of community organisations and individual donors. With over 200 wigs to choose from in a broad range of styles, cuts and colours, Di will provide expert care and advice on how to choose the best wig to suit a client’s needs. Professionally sterilised before each one is loaned out, wigs are of a high quality, light weight to avoid over-heating, and provide a natural look and feel when worn.

Location: Stephenson House, Gibb Street, Berwick Open: Tuesdays, 10am - 2pm Bookings essential: Ph: 03 8784 5600 *COVID restrictions apply and will be discussed at the time of your booking.

Improving surgical outcomes When Orthopaedic Surgeon Prof Ton Tran saw an opportunity to improve surgical outcomes for patients requiring a hip replacement, he set about working with the Monash University translational research team to find a solution. Whilst anterior hip is a well-recognised and established technique, Prof Tran aimed to improve outcomes through the development of instruments that allow for minimally invasive surgery to optimise healing and minimise complications.

using minimally invasive surgery, after which Dinesh recovered well and regained good use of that leg. Two weeks ago, Dinesh returned to St John of God Berwick Hospital for Prof Tran to replace his right hip, again using minimally invasive surgery, this time with the use of the new instrumentation to further improve the surgery and outcomes. Dinesh is now mobilising well and looking forward to going home after he completes rehabilitation at SJOG Berwick Hospital.

Dinesh Rao was hit by a speeding car while crossing the road near his home 17 years ago, his mate who was with him at the time thought he had lost him.

With both legs badly broken and extensive surgery required to pin and repair the legs, Dinesh’s road to recovery was long, he was unable to return to work for 3 years and struggled with his mobility. In recent years arthritic changes made walking increasingly difficult.

In January this year Prof Ton Tran replaced his left hip

The instrument set is the result of a collaboration between Prof Ton Tran, who brings vast experience in Orthopaedics surgery, and the Monash University Faculty of Engineering and Materials Science. The instruments were formally launched in Australia and New Zealand this week with the first case successfully performed at St John of God Berwick Hospital on 17 September, 2021.

Orthopaedic Surgeon Prof Ton Tran and Mr Dinesh Rao

A sad farewell to a kind and caring teammate -Grace Giampiccolo With great sadness Rhonda O’Connor, Director of Mission Integration SEM, recently shared the news that Grace Giampiccolo, a registered nurse in Berwick’s Day Procedure Unit, had passed away. A valued caregiver since July 2014, Grace struggled with a long term health battle, and unfortunately her health rapidly deteriorated in recent times. Please keep her husband Darren, and children Michael and Alyssa, in your thoughts and prayers, as well as her colleagues at Berwick Hospital.

Reflection by Chelsey Sherriff on behalf of the Day Procedure Unit (DPU).

On Thursday, 2nd September, DPU received the devastating news that our beautiful friend and colleague Grace Giampiccolo had passed away. Grace was a much-loved caregiver in DPU who was kind, loving, funny and generous to everyone she met. Grace always had an infectious smile that lit up the room. She absolutely loved nursing and caring for others in their time of need, and this was displayed in the care that she gave. Words cannot describe how devastated all her colleagues are and how greatly she'll be missed. We all have wonderful memories that we will cherish forever. Rest in peace our beautiful friend.

Our thoughts are with Darren, Michael, Alyssa and their families at this time.

FOUNDATION DAY Each year, October 7 marks a very important day in the SJOGHC’s hospitals’ calendar with the recognition and celebration of, what we’ve come to know as, Foundation Day. It’s a day steeped in history and one that acknowledges the hard work of the people responsible for establishing the order of St John of God. An order which would eventually be brought to the shores of Australia and one that would consequently result in the foundation of one of Australia’s largest private health care providers — St John of God Health Care.

On that cold October day in 1871, in the ‘workhouses’ where the sisters ministered the sick, impoverished and destitute of Ireland, tiny seeds of the Sisters of St John of God congregation would begin to take root. From a desperate place of suffering and sadness, a legacy was born. And for the next 150 years, the remarkable work of the Sisters of St John of God would go on to span three continents, providing services and support to people in need in the areas of healthcare, education, pastoral care and spirituality throughout Ireland, Australia and Pakistan.

THE JOURNEY THAT GAVE BIRTH TO ST JOHN OF GOD HEALTH CARE In 1895, Ireland’s Sisters of St John God order embarked on a six week voyage over treacherous seas, and endured, oftentimes, squalid living conditions on board the RSM Orizaba in an effort to reach Australia. Answering the call from Bishop Matthew Gibney to help the sick, poor and needy who were facing a Typhoid epidemic in the goldfields of Western Australia, eight pioneering sisters would eventually dock in Albany, WA on November 23, that same year.

The sisters wasted no time in setting up a residence in Perth — which doubled as a hospital to nurse the sick within the community. And like ripples in a pond, the sisters soon spread their congregation further afield with their first hospital on Adelaide Terrace spawning several more hospitals across Western Australia. By 1915 the sisters had ventured as far as Victoria, establishing their first hospital in Ballarat — a hospital that still stands proud under the St John of God banner today.

More than 100 years after those first tiny seeds were sewn in the workhouses of Ireland, the sisters gave their blessing to the formation of the St John of God Health

Care Group. Since then, the sisters’ vision to provide compassionate healthcare in a not-for-profit setting has grown to encompass 24 health care facilities across Victoria, New South Wales and Western Australia. From the humble beginnings of eight pioneering sisters, St John of God Health Care is now widely recognised as not only one of the largest private hospital operators in the country, but the biggest Catholic not-for-profit health care provider within Australia, employing more than 14,500 people nationwide.

The sisters continue to be represented on the Board of Trustees, providing religious guidance to the organisation when needed and helping St John of God Health Care stay grounded and aligned to the mission, culture and values of the founding sisters. Their selflessness, dedication and commitment to bettering the lives of those in need has given us the platform to continue to provide compassionate care for countless others over the past 150 years, and for that our hospitals, patients and caregivers are truly grateful.

150 YEARS ON While Foundation Day provides us the opportunity to reflect on the history and humble beginnings of St John of God Health Care, it also affords us the ability to recognise, through the hard work and dedication of our own long-serving caregivers across SEM, how we continue to uphold the vision and mission of our foremothers. This Foundation Day, 150 years on, we ironically celebrate the service of almost 150 caregivers across our SEM sites who work tirelessly to improve the lives of others — this year reaching a milestone in their long-standing commitment to the St John of God Health Care Group.

Celebrating Years of Service: 30 YEARS Carol

McKenzie

Berwick

20 YEARS Katrina

Lucas

Berwick

Joanne

Masters

Berwick

Elizabeth

Douglass

Berwick

Roslyn

Purcell

Berwick

Shashikala

Rajamoney

Berwick

Trudi

Rayner

Berwick

Georgia

Forsberg

Frankston

Cathleen

Desmond

Frankston

Fe

Gimarangan

Frankston

Jennifer

Hood

Frankston

Sadija

Ordagic

Frankston

Cheryl

Purcell

Frankston

Jacqueline

Roads

Frankston

Marion

Visser

Pinelodge

Sean

Whelan

Pinelodge

15 YEARS

Sharp

Berwick

Weeding

Berwick

Annamma

Simon

Frankston

Graeme

Endersby

Berwick

Robyn

Cooksey

Berwick

Dean

Tyrrell

Berwick

Deborah

Knight

Berwick

Krassimira

Laleva

Berwick

Belinda

Morden

Berwick

Kristy

Blackley

Berwick

Rebekah

Gunn

Berwick

Thi Ngoc Hanh

Danh

Berwick

Samantha

Sinfield

Berwick

Allyson

Clerke

Berwick

Allison

Merrigan

Berwick

Andrea

Morrow

Berwick

Ah

Chee

Berwick

Beena

Binu

Berwick

Anne

Diamond

Berwick

Jean

Domondon

Berwick

Samara

Naylor

Berwick

Kim

Templeton

Berwick

Velia

Cardinali

Berwick

Gladys

Rebelo

Berwick

Nicola

Bletcher

Berwick

Tania

Donnelly

Berwick

Cheryl

Anderson

Berwick

Leanne

Bluett

Berwick

Belinda

Procter

Berwick

Kim

Warlond

Berwick

Natasha

Burd

Berwick

Chloe

Randall

Berwick

Sharon

Rowe

Berwick

Olivia

Macente

Berwick

Rhonda

O'connor

Berwick

Sharon

Goodinson

Berwick

Cassie

Jacobs

Berwick

Natalie

Burton

Berwick

Cheuk Ching

Lee

Berwick

Margaret

Cameron

Berwick

Landolfo

Frankston

Sujatha

Denagamage

Frankston

Jose

Karickat

Frankston

Betty

Watkins

Frankston

Maria

Stephens

Frankston

Leanne

Pearson

Berwick

Ou

Li

Frankston

Stefanie

Szabo

Frankston

Jill

Boyle

Berwick

Arlene

Jacob

Frankston

Lynette

Boulter

Berwick

Adele

Taylor

Frankston

Christine

Thorpe

Berwick

Anne

Kren

Frankston

Colleen

Harrison

Berwick

Paula

Millar

Luba

Kirpichnikov

Berwick

Anju

Sarah

Tolmie

Berwick

Justine

Presnell

Berwick

Joanne

Santo

Berwick

Sivashnee

Moodley

Berwick

Lisa

Norman

SEM

Ces

Pinelodge

Michael

Deans

Pinelodge

Usha

Chand

Pinelodge

Pinelodge

Janette

Conchita

Christina

Pinelodge

Rossi

Jacqueline

Frankston

Pinelodge

Nelson

Claudia

Frankston

Danh

Henderson

Sarah

Frankston

Thi Ngoc Hanh

Chloe

Pinelodge

Sleath

Frankston

Pinelodge

Thomas

Boyle

Laleva

Power

Prince

Wendy

Krassimira

Geraldine

Herath Pinelodge Mudiyanselage

Gregory

Frankston

Pinelodge

Pinelodge

Gayathri

Pinelodge

KennedyFitzsimons

Hurst

Pinelodge

Flight

Chiu

Ellen

Meryl

Matungamire

Kaye

Tzu-Yang

5 YEARS

Pinelodge

Cairon

Frankston

Frankston

Heeralu Arachchilage

Pinelodge

Heriot

Teiermanis

Chandima

Robson

Kim

Juliette

10 YEARS

Megan

Marie-Michelle Loizeau

Berwick

Maria

Bosa

Berwick

Aristedes

Teanila

Berwick

Michelle

O'neill

Berwick

Evelyn

ChingomaClever

Berwick

Frankston

Kristen

White

Berwick

Kallarackal Jose

Frankston

Craig

White

Berwick

Georgekutty

Joseph

Frankston

Therese

Abeykoon Ratnayake

Berwick

Vilasini

Prabhakaran Sathyamma

Frankston

Marsha

Vlaar

Berwick

Tania

Jacob

Frankston

Karen

Rolfe

Berwick

George

Clison Maliackal

Frankston

Muhammad

Othman

Berwick

Jane

Davis

Berwick

Shay

Occhiuto

Frankston

Carey-Lynne

Haggerty

Berwick

Mellissa

Gaynor

Frankston

Sandra

Mcguire

Berwick

Sharnee

Stoll

Frankston

Katherine

Gloss

Berwick

Ronita

Thompson

Pinelodge

Sukhmani

Khatri

Berwick

Rosemary

Henderson

Pinelodge

Christine

Driver

Berwick

Matthew

Chan

Pinelodge

Sharnee

Stoll

Berwick

Athena

Madytianos

Pinelodge

Hannah

Noy

Berwick

Quang

Vu

Pinelodge

Larissa

Haramis

Berwick

Hannah

Noy

Pinelodge

GOOGLE REVIEWS I came into St John of God Berwick for a hip replacement. From the very first contact with over the phone questions until the time of discharge, I cannot fault the professionalism and friendliness of staff from cleaning, catering, cooking, nursing staff, medical teams and of course the physiotherapy. This is my 3rd stay in hospital so I wish to pass on my thanks to all.

- Bev Bryant Well what an experience. I’ve been to a number of hospitals, public and private but have never experienced such wonderful care and such a beautiful hospital. The staff were all fantastic and caring and friendly, from entering the hospital until discharge. Couldn’t ask for a better doctor than Dr Dobson. Everything explained in detail by her and the anaesthetist. How lucky to have such a hospital in my area.

- Penny Hawke I have just spent 13 days in St John of God, Frankston after a complete knee replacement and I cannot speak highly enough of all aspects of my care. The nurses were friendly and efficient - the food was great - the physio program - two half hour sessions per weekday and one each day on the weekend - has helped me become very independent already. I would like to thank them all.

- Carol Hopwood

SOUTH EAST MELBOURNE

I always recieve the very best care at this hospital. All of the doctors, nurses and support staff are exceptional. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

- Patricia Dowman It’s so nice to be in a place where people actually listen to you. I feel safe and cared for every minute I’m in this hospital. I’m eternally grateful and a very special thank you to Dr Monagle. This hospital is great. I have never had a problem here. Nursing staff and theatre staff are amazing.

I only ever rang my buzzer for pain killers but the nurses were always popping in. I have a great neurosurgeon there as well.

- Mr Beef A fabulous facility in our community. I have been an inpatient twice now; recently for two weeks post knee operation. The outpatient care is also great, although I know they’ve been struggling, as we all have, during the Covid outbreak. The care from the nursing staff, doctors and physio teams is fantastic. Hospital food isn’t the greatest these days, as it’s catered in. Not here. The food is excellent and delivered by a happy, friendly team.

Thank you to everyone who cared for me and congratulations on operating a wonderful caring facility.

- Jennifer Wilcox

NPS SCORE

SOUTH EAST MELBOURNE

Aug 1 to Sept 30

78.3

Frankston Feedback: “The care given me has been wonderful from doctors to nursing staff and all other staff. The food is delicious. The physio has helped tremendously with my recovery. All in all a terrific outcome for me. Thank you to all.”

85.8

Berwick Feedback: “I was impressed by the care, respect and compassion shown by all the nursing staff involved in my stay, they all appeared truly invested in my health and well-being and not just going through the motions of doing their job.”

AUSLAN SIGNS

56

Pinelodge Feedback: “I really enjoy my time in Pinelodge and feel I get a great deal out of the groups. The staff are lovely and very knowledgeable and always available to talk to. The food is great and plentiful. Other patients are mostly very nice people and it’s therapeutic talking to them. All in all it’s a great place and I appreciate everything they do for me. I’m looking forward to my next relapse prevention stay.”

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IN THE LOOP - OCTOBER 2021 St John of God Health Care South East Melbourne Hospitals