Michelle Shanti.

For years, Peninsula Health has led the way with its award-winning Mental Health services, with an outdated in-patient facility at Frankston Hospital being the only drawback.

But things are changing fast, with new State Government funding received to renovate the decades old adult inpatient area known as 2 West, and funds to build a new assessment facility near the Emergency Department.

Mental Health cases are forecast to rise by 10 percent in the next decade, so the investment is timely and greatly needed.

“I used to be a client of the Peninsula Health Mental Health Service,” explains Michelle Shanti, now the Consumer Consultant for mental health clients.

“The colours and furnishings need to be therapeutic, rather than harsh and stark.”

Michelle has drawn on her own experience, as well as her clients, to help design the new Psychiatric Assessment and Planning Unit (PAPU) and the refurbishment of 2 West at Frankston Hospital.

“I asked clients what they would like the environment to be like. Many clients said: ‘why would I come to hospital to recover when it’s not even as nice as my own home,’” recalls Michelle.

“The colours and furnishings need to be therapeutic, rather than harsh and stark.”

Both the PAPU and the renovated 2 West have been designed with this feedback in mind, and will incorporate natural light, a calm and homely feel and modern furnishings.

Sharon Sherwood, Peninsula Health’s Chief Mental Health Nurse, says the six-bed PAPU is much needed and will be a great resource for mental health clients.

“The PAPU will create an alternative to inpatient care and the Emergency Department (ED) for people in crisis,” explains Sharon.

“Rather than being treated in the busy ED, they will go straight to the purpose-built PAPU, for assessment, treatment and planning before being discharged into the community with appropriate support.”

The $1.5 million upgrade to 2 West includes a number of revamped communal areas for activities and art, and a modern outdoor courtyard complete with a barbeque and basketball hoop.

“These two major investments will strengthen Peninsula Health’s place as one of the leading mental health services in Victoria, and we will now be able to offer the full continuum of care to clients,” says Sharon.

Construction is underway on both projects with the work set to be finished by the middle of the year.

This story was first published in the Autumn edition of Connection – Peninsula Health’s Community Magazine. You can view the full edition online here. 

Jessica Mills
JMills@phcn.vic.gov.au 

The post Investment in caring in mental health appeared first on Peninsula Health.

Grace Sargent and Nurse Unit Manager Kylie Bradley.

Sometimes it’s the little things that make all the difference. For Rosebud Hospital, that little thing patients and staff were struggling with was the condition and size of the bathrooms.

With the renovations on Hillview and Walker Wards now finished, the new facilities are being warmly received.

“The renovated bathrooms are so much better than before for both nurses and patients,” explains Kylie Bradley, Nurse Unit Manager of Walker Ward at Rosebud Hospital.

Before the renovations the bathrooms were too small, making it difficult for patients to use the facilities and for staff to help them, increasing the risk of falls.

“The new bathrooms have a modern design and are very spacious. You can now move inside them with a walking frame and they can fit a shower seat. All of our patients have been commenting about how much better they are,” adds Kylie.

Grace Sargeant (pictured) from Rye is one of the first to benefit from the new bathrooms. “The new bathroom means there is more space and comfort with less people sharing.”

The renovations have also improved patient safety, as nurses and doctors are now able to join patients inside the larger bathrooms to prevent falls and other injuries.

Community donations of more than $90,000 helped make this important renovation program possible.

If you’d like to help us raise money for Rosebud Hospital, tickets are currently available for the 2017 Rosebud Hospital Benefit Dinner on Saturday 6 May.

This story was first published in the Autumn edition of Connection – Peninsula Health’s Community Magazine. You can view the full edition online here. 

The post Changing times appeared first on Peninsula Health.

Pictured: Tess Baker and Dean Gresle with Noosh’s husband and her parents

Dean Gresle is the 2017 winner of the Noosh McGrath Excellence in Physiotherapy Award.

The award is given each year in memory of Noosh McGrath, who gave a lasting contribution to patients and fellow staff members when she worked as a physiotherapist at Golf Links Road Rehabilitation Centre, prior to her passing in December 2013.

“Noosh was an excellent physiotherapist who inspired patients and other physios to get the best of themselves,” said Sally Harrowfield, Head of Physiotherapy at Peninsula Health, who is currently seconded to Medibank Private.

Dean Gresle was recognised for his strong commitment to person-centred care and always being there to support and mentor his colleagues – just like Noosh.

“Dean is dedicated, hard-working and often goes above what’s expected of him to maximise patient outcomes and to ensure an excellent standard of care is provided,” said Tess Baker, Acting Head of Physiotherapy.

“One colleague wrote in their nomination that he is possibly the most patient-focused physiotherapist they have ever known, putting in more than 100% effort for each and every client they see and always with a smile on their face.”

Dean was also recognised for his contribution to making Golf Links Road a great place to work, through his participation and co-ordination of social activities, including playing in the physio band, “the ultrasounds” and taking part in Movember.

Dean thanked his colleagues and Noosh’s family for the award.

“Thank you so much for this honour, I can’t express my gratitude enough to everyone” he said.

“I like to think I try as hard as I can in everything I do and I always do the right thing by Peninsula Health, my colleagues and my clients – I hope in that way it’s a reflection of the values of Noosh.”

Following the presentation of the award on 6 April, Noosh’s family officially opened the Noosh McGrath Memorial Garden.

Noosh’s family and colleagues held a fundraising event to raise money to develop the garden in her memory.

The idea behind the design of the area, which features different textures, colours and plants, is that it will be able to serve a therapeutic purpose as an outdoor mobility garden.

Staff, clients and visitors will be able to enjoy the garden as a place to reflect, as well as for therapy, for years to come. 

Noosh’s family at the opening of the garden.

Dean and Matt Brailsford, Team leader Frankston Community Rehabiliation Centre.

The post Remarkable physio remembered through award and rehabilitation garden appeared first on Peninsula Health.

Patient Audrey with Peninsula Health diversional therapists Maureen and Gail and Jenny from Bunnings Mornington.

Patients and staff at Peninsula Health’s The Mornington Centre have helped to hand-make a poppy trail to be erected in the WW1 Avenue of Honour at Mornington Secondary College as part of the school’s ANZAC Day celebrations.

“I think it’s very clever and it’s nice to do something in remembrance of ANZAC Day,” said Audrey, a patient at The Mornington Centre who participated in one of the poppy making sessions.

Jenny from Mornington Bunnings decided to get patients at The Mornington Centre involved in the project, along with students from local schools and visitors to Bunnings as she wanted to do something special to commemorate ANZAC Day.

“I wanted to get different members of the community involved so it’s a community poppy trail,” said Jenny.

The poppies are made out of plastic and fabric. Patients traced the outline of the flower onto the felt, cut it out and created the poppy, then weaved them all together to create the trail.

“It’s been a good project to be involved in,” said Maureen, a Diversional Therapist at Peninsula Health.

“Everyone has really enjoyed it and over the last two months lots of different patients have had a go at making the poppies.”

Audrey works on the poppy trail. 

Flinders Ward Nurse Unit Manager Mark and patient Elfi making poppies. 

Jessica Mills
JMills@phcn.vic.gov.au 

The post Patients create ANZAC Day poppies appeared first on Peninsula Health.

88-year-old Royal Australian Navy veteran and Frankston local John Boyer was trying to put his slippers on when he had a bad fall at home, alone.

“The rubber back on my slippers was caught so I reached down to pull it out and that’s when I fell,” explained John.

“It was 10.10pm on a Saturday night so I decided not to go to hospital but by Sunday morning the pain was just too bad.”

John had broken three ribs. After hospital, he was transferred to Peninsula Health’s The Mornington Centre to recover and undergo some rehabilitation.

The Mornington Centre is an aged care and rehabilitation unit, which provides specialised care to mostly older patients with complex conditions such as dementia, orthopaedic, neurological and respiratory issues as well as many people recovering from a stroke.

John joined the Navy as soon as he was of age.

 “I joined up in 1945 – World War Two finished in August and I signed up in December because I wasn’t old enough to sign up earlier,” recalled John.

“I worked as a stoker, in the engine room of the ship.”

John’s work took him all around the south pacific islands and then to Japan as part of the occupation forces.

“We were on our way up to Japan for an occupation stint when the Korean War broke out and we were straight in – we were the first Australian war ship to go into action,” explained John.

He spent eleven months in Korea on the Bataan.

“The worst feature was the Korean winter. We were in the boiler room and we had icicles in the boiler room inside,” said John.

“I said to my mate while we were there, if ever we get out of this I’ll never complain about hot weather again and I haven’t.”

Every ANZAC Day John goes to the dawn service at Frankston and hopefully he will have made a full recovery from his fall to go again this year.

“I’m doing physiotherapy, remembering to take deep breaths and do my breathing exercises every day so I’ll be going home soon,” said John.

John praised the care of the team at Peninsula Health.

“All of them are very good and do a great job as far as I’m concerned, I can’t complain.”

Jessica Mills
JMills@phcn.vic.gov.au 

The post Veteran on the mend after nasty fall appeared first on Peninsula Health.

Speech pathologist Sarah Billing with Cole and his Mum Rachael.

When Cole was 2 years old, the Baxter boy’s Mum and GP noticed his speech was delayed for his age.

Cole was referred to Peninsula Health’s speech pathology team with speech difficulties, partly due to a small hole in the roof of his mouth.

“I have definitely seen an improvement in Cole’s speech since he started speech therapy,” said Cole’s Mum Rachael.

“He started in group sessions which were really good for laying the foundation ahead of the one-on-one speech pathology sessions by introducing him to the games and structure of working out the different sounds.”

Cole is now doing one-on-one sessions with speech pathologist Sarah Billing, at Peninsula Health’s Hastings Community Health Centre. 

“I can always tell in the week or so after a session that he’s really attempted a lot of what he’s learned and we’ve then practised at home as well,” explained Rachael.

His speech pathologist, Sarah, is also very pleased with his progress – he has improved from 70% to 95% in one of the sounds he has been working on since their last session.

Peninsula Health has improved access to children’s speech pathology services by bringing its speech pathology services together within one service. More clients can access support  closer to home, with the service now  offered in more areas including Hastings, Frankston, Rosebud and Mornington.

Rachael was happy to move from attending sessions at Frankston to Hastings as part of the change.

“Hastings is a lot easier to get to and I know the centre as I have also been here for Maternal Health appointments,” she said.

Rachael and Cole are both very pleased with the treatment they have received from the Peninsula Health speech pathology service.

“Cole really enjoys coming to speech pathology – he is very enthusiastic about having one on one time,” said Rachael.

“It’s been very good I can’t really fault it.”

More information about Peninsula Health’s speech pathology service is available here.

To access our speech pathology service call 1300 665 781 to book your first initial assessment.

Jessica Mills
Peninsula Health Media
JMills@phcn.vic.gov.au 

The post Kids having fun improving their speech appeared first on Peninsula Health.

Deputy Director of Frankston Emergency Department, Dr Jonathan Dowling, thanked Josh for his kind donation.

When 10-year-old Josh’s brother was unwell he had to go to the Emergency Department (ED) at Frankston Hospital.

While waiting with his brother, Josh found there wasn’t a lot for kids to do to pass the time – which gave him an idea.

“I decided to collect some stuff for kids to use while they have to wait in hospital,” explained Josh.

The Mt Martha boy knew this wasn’t something he could do alone – so he decided to reach out to other kids he knew in the home schooling community. 

“Some of the other home schoolers helped us collecting the things we gave to the hospital,” said Josh.

“There are some colouring books, crayons, spin tops, card games and cars.”

It took Josh about one month to collect everything, before he was able tFun o go into ED to donate all of the activities to ED staff to give out to other kids.

Josh said it felt very good to make the donation and that it was exciting to meet some members of the ED team, including Dr Jonathan Dowling.

Thank you Josh and all of the kids from the home schooling community who donated – kids who come into ED love the new activities.

The post Keeping kids busy in the Emergency Department appeared first on Peninsula Health.

People experiencing homelessness who come into the Emergency Department (ED) at Frankston Hospital are given personal care packages when they leave as part of a new initiative started by ED Nurse Unit Manger Trish O’Neill.

“We decided to start creating these packs as there has been an increase in the number of people experiencing homelessness coming to the ED,” explained Trish.

“Almost every day these people come in due to sickness or just for somewhere warm to sit.”

The personal care packages contain basic items such as a comb, shampoo, toothbrush and toothpaste, small towel and face washer.

“The packages just help with basic hygiene – things that we take for granted,” said Trish.

“I think when you don’t have access to those types of things it just helps people to feel a bit more human and to feel better.”

Trish recalled one man experiencing homelessness who was bought to tears after being given the package.

“He was so thankful,” said Trish.

With winter and the cold weather coming, Trish is planning to expand the contents of the packages.

“I’m hoping to get some donations of new socks and underwear to add to the packs” said Trish.

“If people have these items, we’d really appreciate any donations.”

People can donate new socks and underwear to the ACE volunteers or Nurse Unit Managers at Frankston Emergency.

“Hopefully this makes people experiencing homelessness realise that people do think about them,” said Trish.

“It is nice if we can help them in this small way.”

Frankston Emergency also has a donated clothing stand, run by the ACE volunteers, so that patients can go home wearing clean clothes.

The clothing stand currently needs donations of non-gender specific track suit pants, long and short sleeves t-shirts and windcheaters, all of which are needed in all sizes. Donations for these items are open until the end of May. 

Jessica Mills
Peninsula Health Media 
JMills@phcn.vic.gov.au

The post A helping hand for people experiencing homelessness appeared first on Peninsula Health.

Mum Val with Lars and Dad Glen with Odis in the Special Care Nursery at Frankston Hospital.

There was a record four sets of twins all at Frankston Hospital at the same time at the end of April, with three sets in the Special Care Nursery and one set in the Women’s Health Unit.

Balnarring couple Glen and Val Smith welcomed their twin boys Odis and Lars into the world on 7 April, when they were six weeks premature.

“Frankston Hospital saved Lars’ life,” said Dad Glen.

“He needed 12 minutes of resuscitation and they bought him back.”

Val – a twin herself – always had a feeling she would have twins, and it was confirmed during her twelve week scan.

The similarities don’t end there. 

“The boys came at the same premmie age and the same time apart as Val and her twin brother,” explained Glen.

“Lars is actually named after my brother, it’s his middle name,” added Val.

“My brother was the second born twin so we named the second twin after him.”

The boys will be in the Special Care Nursery for a few more weeks, as they continue to grow and get stronger.

Glen and Val both had nothing but praise for the team at Frankston Hospital. 

“All the doctors and nurses have been fantastic.”

Jessica Mills
Peninsula Health Media
JMills@phcn.vic.gov.au

The post Twins frenzy at Frankston Hospital appeared first on Peninsula Health.

Peninsula Health is encouraging people to Take a Break for Cancer by hosting their own fundraising events to help bring world class cancer services to the Mornington Peninsula.

“Every year more than 1500 new cases of cancer are diagnosed in Frankston and on the Mornington Peninsula alone,” said Joan Thomas, Nurse Unit Manager of the Chemotherapy Day Units at Frankston and Rosebud Hospitals.

“Take a Break for Cancer is raising money to help us provide the best services possible for prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer, locally.”

In 2016, 8000 cancer treatments were provided to patients in the Day Chemotherapy Units at Frankston and Rosebud Hospitals.

It’s easy to host your own fundraising event – get your friends, family or colleagues together for morning or afternoon tea. Encourage them to bring along a plate to share and a gold coin.

Joan encouraged people to host a fundraising event and support cancer services in their local area.

“When people are unwell with cancer they want to be able to access world class treatment on their doorstep – they don’t want to spend all their time travelling.”

“By hosting an event or donating to Take a Break for Cancer you are helping us to provide these patients and their families with the best care possible.”

Register your event now and you’ll receive a fundraising kit including a poster and coin collection box to get you started.

If you are unable to host an event but would like to donate to Peninsula Health’s cancer services, you can make a donation online.

The post Take a break for cancer patients on the Peninsula appeared first on Peninsula Health.

When Frankston Mum Chantelle Morrissey had an Ultra-Sound at 32 weeks pregnant with twins, the discovered changed the course of her pregnancy.

“The Ultra-Sound picked up that one of the twins was breech,” explains Chantelle.

“The next Ultra-Sounds at 34 and 35 weeks found that she still hadn’t moved.”

As one of the twins was bottom down in a breech position, staff at Frankston Hospital decided a caesarean was the only way to safely deliver the twins.

“They used the Ultra-Sound machine to check she was still breech just before they cut me open,” says Chantelle.

“It’s so important for obstetricians to have access to a good Ultra-Sound machine to use when they need it – otherwise you’re going in for major surgery mightn’t be necessary.”

Eloise and Bjorn were safely delivered by Peninsula Health’s Clinical Director of Women’s Health, Dr Jolyon Ford, on 21 April, weighing 3.4 and 2.9 kilos.

“The head obstetrician came in on his day off just to deliver these two which was amazing,” says Chantelle.

“They could have waited another week but thank goodness they didn’t – as they were fairly big babies, I was in agony.”

Chantelle, a physiotherapist, is delighted with the care she received at Frankston Hospital.

“I just love Frankston Hospital – it’s such an amazing asset to the Peninsula that we’ve got excellent healthcare,” says Chantelle.

“It makes me really proud to live in Frankston where we have this incredible maternity service on our doorstep – one of the best that I’ve ever heard of in Melbourne.”

The twins are now at home with Mum and Dad and their older sister.

“We’re the first people in the family on both sides to have twins. Lucky us, it’s awesome!”

Help more patients like Chantelle, Eloise and Bjorn by supporting our Ultra-Sound appeal today.

It is not very often that one piece of equipment has such a significant impact on the care we provide to such a large number of people across the Mornington Peninsula.

The post Ultra-Sound plays key role in the safe birth of twins appeared first on Peninsula Health.

Adam Raftopoulos first came to Peninsula Health as a shy but enthusiastic nineteen-year-old looking to gain voluntary experience in the health sector.

Fast forward one year and Adam’s bubbly and genuine personality has shone through, making him the perfect fit for the Volunteer Help Office ‘greet and guide’ role, which supports patients and visitors with information and way finding at Frankston Hospital.

It has also earned him a nomination for the Minister for Health 2017 Volunteer Awards, for outstanding achievement by a young volunteer.

“I really like helping out the community – it’s a really good thing to do,” said Adam.

“I enjoy coming to work with the other volunteers and meeting lots of different people.”

Having a reading disability hasn’t been a barrier for Adam in his volunteer role and he has gone from strength to strength in the last year, according to Peninsula Health Volunteer Manager Helen Wilson.

“Adam has worked incredibly hard, using his own creative strategies to memorise information and master the way finding skills required for the role,” explained Helen.  

“With a positive attitude, amazing memory and a willingness to help, Adam is a very confident and capable volunteer who is well regarded and respected by members of staff and fellow volunteers.”

Adam does a minimum of five hours of volunteer work at Frankston Hospital every week.

As well as benefiting the health service, Adam’s volunteering has also had a positive impact on him personally and he has grown more independent. Adam has successfully interviewed for casual employment, catches public transport to and from his shifts and confidently mans the Help Office on his own.

“Adam is a great ambassador for youth volunteering and an excellent role model for young people with disabilities who want to contribute to their local community,” said Helen.  

The Minister for Health Volunteer Awards will be presented at a special ceremony on 23 May.

There are many opportunities to volunteer at Peninsula Health. You can contact Helen Wilson on 03 9784 2673 or hwilson@phcn.vic.gov.au. 

Jessica Mills
JMills@phcn.vic.gov.au 

The post Outstanding young volunteer helping patients and visitors find their way appeared first on Peninsula Health.

The Friends of Carinya Auxiliary is committed to helping make the everyday lives of Carinya residents more special.

“It’s like a surrogate family to residents,” explained Marion Sparrow, secretary and one of the founding members of the auxiliary 25 years ago.

“We help them to purchase or do things they or their family can’t afford, to offer them the best possible life, within limits.”

Carinya provides highly specialised and unique care for elderly members of the community who have dementia or mental health diagnoses and cannot be managed in generic nursing homes due to behavioural issues.

Over the years, the auxiliary has raised more than $100,000 for Carinya. They have funded farm visits, limousine rides, shopping tours and fashion parades. They have also funded improvements to the care environment including canvas awnings for windows, recliner wheelchairs, an outdoor BBQ area and a commissioned tactile wall that addresses the sensory needs of restless residents.

“I have a lot of insight into the residents’ needs through my role as a diversional therapist,” explained Marion.  

“If residents have a goal they would like to achieve but there is no funding then the Friends of Carinya Auxiliary will fund the activity so they can reach their goal”

An example of this was the auxiliary arranging and funding music therapy for a resident.

The auxiliary has 10 members – two original members who have served 25 years, two members who have served 15 years and three members who have served 10 years.

“One of our 15-year members first joined with her mother when her father was a resident,” recalled Marion.

“When he passed away they both continued. The mother was on the auxiliary and turned up to every meeting until she was 99-years-old.”

“The auxiliary has become a family – the bond between members continues even after family members at Carinya pass away.”

The close-knit group are all very passionate about making a difference to the lives of Carinya residents and have been nominated for the Minister for Health 2017 Volunteer Awards for their work improving public healthcare.

If you would like to be involved in the auxiliary, please contact Peninsula Health Volunteer Manager Helen Wilson on 03 9784 2673 or email hwilson@phcn.vic.gov.au.  

 “We always welcome new people.” Marion said.

Jessica Mills
Peninsula Health Media
JMills@phcn.vic.gov.au

The post Auxiliary a surrogate family for Carinya residents appeared first on Peninsula Health.

When Dolores Jaeger moved to Langwarrin from Shepparton she knew nobody until another lady introduced herself at the local shops, and asked her to join their walking group.

Fast forward 10 years and Dolores has now clocked up more than 4000 hours walking, providing warm up and cool down exercises as a volunteer walk leader for the Karingal Hub Walking Group.

This week is National Volunteer Week –  an annual celebration to acknowledge the generous contribution of our nation’s volunteers.

“Dolores provides the practical, motivational and emotional support that has made the walking group such a success,” said Peninsula Health Volunteer Manager Helen Wilson.

“Her commitment is best described as unstoppable!”

More than 100 people participate in the walks around the shopping centre each week.

“God I love it,” exclaimed Dolores, when asked about her volunteer work.

“Just love, love, love it!”

As well as leading the walking group four times a week, Dolores also dedicates three hours a week to working as an ACE volunteer in Frankston Emergency Department.

“I enjoy being able to offer a warm blanket, give children a teddy bear or hold someone’s hand when they are scared.”

Dolores commitment to helping others is highlighted by her giving even more of her time to do extra shifts in the Emergency Department every Christmas and New Year’s Day.

“Dolores is an exemplary example of volunteering and volunteer leadership, with a good mix of humour, warmth and practical organisation skills,” said Helen.

Dolores is nominated for the 2017 Minister for Health Volunteer Awards in the category of Outstanding Achievement by a Volunteer: Improving the patient experience.

The award winners will be announced on 23 May.

There are many opportunities to volunteer at Peninsula Health. You can contact Helen Wilson on 03 9784 2673 or hwilson@phcn.vic.gov.au. 

Jessica Mills 
JMills@phcn.vic.gov.au 

The post Unstoppable volunteer nominated for award appeared first on Peninsula Health.

Pictured: Michelle Sargent and the poster explaining her research project.

Eleven Peninsula Health staff members presented their research to other allied health professionals from across Victoria at the Victorian Allied Health Research Conference last month.

“We have a strong research culture at Peninsula Health so this conference was a fantastic opportunity for us to share some of the great initiatives and projects happening at Peninsula Health,” explained Dr Cylie Williams, Allied Health Research Lead at Peninsula Health.

Presentations by staff covered a wide range of topics including foot health of aged care residents, managing vitamin D status in adults and inter-professional education.

Staff who attended said the conference demonstrated the importance of allied health staff from different disciplines working together.

Michelle Sargent, Head of Speech Pathology at Peninsula Health said it was great to exchange knowledge with other allied health professionals and to hear about new initiatives and programs that could be implemented at Peninsula Health.

“It was a wonderful day – to experience so many Allied Health professionals together for the purpose of sharing, learning and improving was truly magnificent!” Michelle said.

Full list of presentations

Simone Cranage- Gait and lower limb observation of paediatrics (GALLOP)

Alicia James- Health related quality of life of children with calcaneal apophysitis: Child & parent perception

Cylie Williams- Students’ responses to a simulated interprofessional education intervention to teach falls prevention

Georgia Coombes-Understanding the foot health of aged care residents

Michelle Sargent and Sharon Flitman- Giving a voice to people with chronic communication impairments: A feasibility study

Karen Edis and Alice Goodman-   Review of dietetic documentation and clinical handover processes at Peninsula Health

Georde Vuilermin, Kelly-Ann Bowles, Ross Iles and Cylie Williams- FLEXAR: deFining Lumbar Extension, FleXion and Rotation in the workplace

Helen Stratmann- Evaluation of the Peninsula Health “management of adult vitamin D status” clinical practice guideline

For more information about any of the above presentations, email Cylie Williams cyliewilliams@phcn.vic.gov.au.  

The post Peninsula Health staff star at Victorian Allied Health Research Conference appeared first on Peninsula Health.

The Peninsula Health Rainbow Tick Steering Committee.

Peninsula Health is currently working towards gaining its Rainbow Tick Accreditation. Once achieved Peninsula Health will be the first entire Health service in Australia to achieve the Rainbow Tick.

“The Rainbow Tick Accreditation supports organisations to understand and implement Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Queer (GLBTIQ) inclusive service delivery,” explained Rebecca Thompson, Peninsula Health’s Rainbow Tick Accreditation Project Manager.

“Having the rainbow tick also reassures GLBTIQ consumers and staff that Peninsula Health is aware of and responsive to their needs.”

Going through this process is incredibly important, according to Rebecca.

“In general, members of the GLBTIQ community experience poorer health and wellbeing outcomes than other members of the community,” she said.

“This poorer health and wellbeing largely results from stigma and discrimination that people who are GLBTIQ can experience in their everyday lives.”

Inclusion is about recognising and valuing Rainbow diversity, including a diversity of sexualities, gender identities and intersex variations.

“The Rainbow Tick Accreditation is not about changing individual beliefs or personal values, it is ensuring that everybody has equity in their healthcare and place of work,” added Rebecca.

“It’s about ensuring the services we provide at Peninsula Health are delivered in ways that are non-discriminatory, GLBTIQ inclusive and welcoming for everybody.”

Being an inclusive service provider will improve the health and wellbeing of the GLBTIQ community in the Frankston and Mornington Peninsula area.

Rebecca said Peninsula Health is working hard to be an ally to the GLBTIQ community,

“Being an ‘Ally’ in GLBTIQ health and wellbeing means speaking up when a group is not treated equally, and providing services to all members of the community, regardless of how they identify in ways including sexual orientation, gender identity and intersex status,” said Rebecca.

For more information about Rainbow Tick please contact the Quality Department on 9788 1836

The post What is the Rainbow Tick Accreditation? appeared first on Peninsula Health.

Pictured: Peninsula Health pharmacists Mays Shabbot and Esther Liu are raising awareness of Venous Thromboembolism.

People of all ages can be affected by the formation of blood clots in the veins – officially known as Venous Thromboembolism (VTE).

May 15-19 is Peninsula Health VTE Awareness Week. Pharmacists Mays Shabbot and Esther Liu are reminding patients and health care professionals to be aware of VTE – which causes 7% of all deaths in Australian Hospitals and is preventable in most cases.

“We are trying to raise awareness so that health care professionals and patients are aware of the risks, as it is everyone’s responsibility to prevent VTE,” explained Mays.

While age is a risk factor, VTE doesn’t just affect older people.

“People are more at risk if they take certain medications such as oral contraceptives, if they are obese, have active cancer, have family history of blood clots, have recently had surgery (especially hip, knee or surgery for cancer) or are pregnant, with pregnant woman having a 10 fold risk compared to others,” said Esther.

“Being hospitalised is a risk factor on its own for a blood clot as is travelling on a plane for a long period of time without moving around,” added Mays.

VTE is caused when blood circulation isn’t moving as well as it should be – which is why people in hospital with limited mobility are at a higher risk.

There are two types of VTE – Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE).

“DVT can start in the leg, arm or pelvis. The clot can break off and travel to the lungs and turn into a Pulmonary Embolism (PE) which can be fatal,” explained Esther.

“Some of the common signs of DVT are redness, warmth around the area, swelling, pain or tenderness. For PE, its unexplained shortness of breath, chest pain (may be worse upon deep breath) and rapid breathing or heart rate. Some people do not have any warning signs or symptoms.”

Esther and Mays said people should review whether they are at an increased risk and also be aware of the symptoms.

“While the focus is on VTE prevention, if people do experience the symptoms it is important to get treatment as soon as possible, before it has progressed from DVT to PE.”

“If you are in hospital for an extended period of time, make sure you ask your Doctor or Pharmacist if you have had a VTE assessment. If you have had surgery that affects your mobility and are sent home with anti-clotting medication, make sure you complete the course” Mays and Esther said.

For more information visit the World Thrombosis Day website.

Jessica Mills

JMills@phcn.vic.gov.au

The post Am I at risk of developing a blood clot? appeared first on Peninsula Health.

Pictured: Margaret has lived on the Mornington Peninsula for more than 40 years

92-year-old Sorrento woman Margaret Stewart is recovering in Rosebud Hospital after having problems with her heart.

“I collapsed at home and was rushed in an ambulance to the Intensive Care Unit at a private hospital on the Peninsula,” explained Margaret.

“They found that my heart valve is leaking.”

Margaret then needed to go to rehabilitation, so she could get stronger again before going home.

“They didn’t have the facilities for rehab which is how I ended up here at Rosebud Hospital,” said Margaret.

“Each staff member has been very good, very helpful trying to build me up again.”

“I’ve been doing exercises such as walking forwards and backwards and marching.”

Margaret also uses another Peninsula Health service – the MePACS personal alarm, in case she ever needs urgent help at home.

“I have found MePACS very good,” she said.

“I used it once when I fell over in the garden and couldn’t get back up again.”

Margaret, who has 13 great-grandchildren, is looking forward to going home and getting back to her favourite past time – cooking.

“I enjoy making food to cook, biscuits are my favourite thing to bake,” said Margaret.

“I’ve been to the OT kitchen here once and am going back once more before I go home.”

Jessica Mills
JMills@phcn.vic.gov.au
0419 868 824

The post Peninsula Health helps 92-year-old to recover and remain independent appeared first on Peninsula Health.

Friends of Carinya Auxiliary members Marion Sparrow and Jan Graham, Minister for Health Jill Hennessy MP and Parliamentary Secretary for Health, Carers and Volunteers Gabrielle Williams MP.

The Friends of Carinya Auxiliary has been recognised at the annual Minister for Health Volunteer Awards, winning the award for Outstanding Achievement by a Volunteer – Improving Public Healthcare.  

Peninsula Health CEO Sue Williams commended the auxiliary for their 25 years of supporting Carinya, Peninsula Health’s Residential Aged Care Service. The Golf Links Road facility provides highly specialised care for elderly members of the community who have dementia or mental health diagnoses and cannot be managed in generic nursing homes due to behavioural issues.

“Congratulations to the Friends of Carinya Auxiliary for winning this Award,” said Ms Williams.

“These Awards are very important as they recognise the outstanding work undertaken by members of the local community who have given up their time to help others across the health service.”

The auxiliary has raised more than $100,000 for Carinya which has funded farm visits, limousine rides, shopping tours and fashion parades. It has also funded improvements to the care environment including canvas awnings for windows, recliner wheelchairs, an outdoor BBQ area and a tactile wall.

“The auxiliary’s work has had a significant impact on the lives of so many people,” said Ms Williams.

The tight-knit auxiliary has 10 members – two original members who have served 25 years, two members who have served 15 years and three members who have served 10 years. 

Founding members Marion Sparrow and Jan Graham accepted the award from the Minister for Health, Jill Hennessey MP, at the ceremony on 23 May.

“We’re very honoured to have won the award and very appreciative of Peninsula Health for nominating us,” said Ms Sparrow.

This is the eighth consecutive year that one of Peninsula Health’s volunteers or auxiliaries has been recognised at the Minister for Health Awards.

Two other Peninsula Health volunteers were also nominated for Awards – Dolores Jaeger was nominated for Outstanding Achievement by a Volunteer: Improving the Patient Experience and Adam Raftopoulos was nominated for Outstanding Achievement by a Young Volunteer.

Jessica Mills
JMills@phcn.vic.gov.au
0419 868 824

The post Peninsula Health auxiliary wins Minister for Health Volunteer Award appeared first on Peninsula Health.

Tim Rajakumar grew up in Mt Eliza before moving away when he was 9-years-old. Almost 20 years later Tim is back in Australia, this time as a fifth year medical student from Oxford University in England, doing a placement at Frankston Hospital.

“I came to Peninsula Health because this is where I want to work,” explained the 28-year-old.

“The Peninsula is where I consider my home to be – this is the area I love.”

Tim has been doing a three-week placement in the paediatric team.

“I’ve been spending a lot of time on the paediatric ward and the Special Care Nursery and also seeing new patients in the emergency department which has been really exciting,” said Tim.

“It’s been amazing to see what all the doctors and nurses have been doing and it’s a really nice, modern place to work with really strong support for junior doctors.”

Following in the footsteps of his scientist father, Tim also has a strong interest in science and research. He has a master’s degree from Cambridge University and a PhD from Oxford University in synthetic biology.

“It was incredibly fun work, really interesting, high tech, cutting edge stuff which one day will hopefully be used for some good,” said Tim when describing the research he did as part of his PhD.

“My dream is to be able to combine science and medicine – to do a bit of translational work, bringing new scientific principles to medicine.”

The former Peninsula Grammar student says paediatrics is a very interesting area but he doesn’t know which area of medicine he wants to specialise in yet.

“Obstetrics and Gynaecology was my favourite rotation back in England and it has a strong link to paediatrics. I’m also interested in Oncology and certain surgical areas which are using some cool technology.” Tim said.

While he says Oxford is an awesome town to live in, Tim hopes to eventually return to the Peninsula permanently to live and practise as a doctor.

He still has plenty of ties to the area– his grandfather, uncle and cousins live locally in Mt Martha and one of his oldest childhood friends works at Peninsula Health as a nurse.

Jessica Mills
JMills@phcn.vic.gov.au
0419868824

The post Tim Rajakumar – from Mt Eliza to Oxford and back again appeared first on Peninsula Health.