November 2016Second edition

www.wslhd.health.nsw.gov.au

Four-legged healing comes to Westmead Hospital

Westmead Hospital geriatric ward staff: University of Notre Dame student Rachael Watts, environmental services staffer Elsie Yardley, nurse unit manager Julie Thwaite, registered nurse Indranie Moodley and University of Notre Dame student Kate Touzell. FULL STORY: P2.

Variety fund new equipment for Blacktown Hospital: P7.

Premmie babies doctors named runner-up for prestigious award: P6.

WSLHD endocrinologist wins top award for commitment to diabetes: P3.

The Pulse | November 2016 2

News from across WSLHD

World Diabetes Day: latest results revealedAs part of World Diabetes Day 2016 (Nov 14), WSLHD released the staggering results of its Australian-first routine diabetes screening program.

Since June 2016, tests have run at Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals on patients coming through the emergency department (ED) to identify people who either have diabetes or are at risk of developing diabetes.

Patients who present to the ED for other conditions and require a blood test are now routinely screened for diabetes as part of their overall medical assessment.

The testing roll-out follows a recent successful diabetes screening pilot at Blacktown Hospital.

Since the launch of the initiative, 11,000 people have been tested.

Of those, 30 per cent may have pre-diabetes while 17 per cent were likely to have diabetes.

The highest percentage of people with diabetes or at risk of the disease included:

• 60 to 80 year-olds

• Men • People of non-English speaking

backgrounds

All patients who tested positive were referred to their GP for definitive assessment and diagnosis.

Dr Tien-Ming Hng, staff specialist endocrinologist at Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals, said early diagnosis and treatment were essential to prevent diabetes-related complications such as retinopathy.

“We are committed to uncovering people who are undiagnosed, in order to improve their health outcomes and prevent them from developing complications later in life,” he said.

In western Sydney, 15 per cent of people are likely to have diabetes and have not been diagnosed, while more than half the region’s population is overweight and at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Anyone who suspects they may be at risk of diabetes and does not require urgent medical attention at an ED is urged to visit their local GP for advice and testing.

Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospital staff specialist endocrinologist Dr Tien-Ming Hng.

Dogs bring joy and snuggles to WestmeadThe wag of a tail, the rub of a soft coat or the gaze of a puppy’s big brown eyes are set to become a regular greeting for Westmead Hospital patients, as the Nepean Therapy Dogs add the busy western Sydney hospital to their visiting schedule.

The cute pooches and their handlers have started visiting Westmead Hospital fortnightly.

Westmead Hospital general manager Andrew Newton welcomed the clever canines, who have an uncanny sense of patients’ feelings.

“The Nepean Therapy Dogs really help our patients; they immediately relax people and provide that sense of normality and homeliness,” he said.

“Some of our patients spend long periods in hospital and may not see their family and friends; having the dogs visit regularly brings smiles to the sickest of patients.”

The Nepean Therapy Dogs was established in 1992 by Annemarie Schuster and her golden retriever Bella.

More than 25 years later, the not-for-profit organisation has wonderful, dedicated volunteers with pampered pooches.

The group regularly visits various western Sydney hospitals wards including rehabilitation, palliative care, dementia day

care, cardiac, children’s wards, emergency and dialysis units, spreading joy among patients, visitors and staff.

Nepean Therapy Dogs president Nicole Celeban has visited Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals for the past 15 years and relies on her team of volunteers.

“We are always looking for extra volunteers with suitable dogs so we can continue to provide this essential service,” she said.

If you are interested in joining the Nepean Therapy Dogs and you have a clean, well- mannered, obedient dog, call Nicole Celeban on 0427 393 699 or visit: http://www.therapydogs.com.au

Westmead Hospital geriatric ward Dr Cathy Zheng welcomes Lady Darcy to the hospital.

The Pulse | November 2016 3

News from across WSLHD

Leading endocrinologist wins top diabetes awardWestern Sydney Local Health District endocrinologist Professor Glen Maberly has been awarded the prestigious 2016 Sir Kempson Maddox Award during a World Diabetes Day event at NSW Parliament House.

Professor Glen Maberly, senior staff specialist (endocrinology) at Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals, received Diabetes NSW & ACT’s top award in recognition of his contribution to scientific research, education and advocacy in diabetes.

Prof Maberly joins a long list of eminent past recipients including politicians, endocrinologists, pharmacists, scientists and community members.

As program-lead for the Western Sydney Diabetes Prevention Alliance, Prof Maberly is also dedicated to working with other health organisations to reduce the diabetes epidemic sweeping western Sydney.

Diabetes NSW/ACT chief executive Sturt Eastwood awards Glen Maberly.

CoWs roam Westmead ahead of Paperlite launchFour computers on wheels – better known as CoWs – are getting the hands-on treatment from staff across Westmead Hospital in preparation for the launch of Paper-lite electronic medical records next year.

Paper-lite will provide clinical staff with access to patient records anywhere, anytime.

CoWs have been requested for every ward in the hospital, allowing records to be checked or written at the patient’s bedside.

EMR2 project manager Robyn Cook said feedback on the CoWs being showcased around Westmead had been positive.

“Ease of use and movement, the opportunity for patient conversations with records on-hand and the intuitive nature of the CoW touch screens have all received the thumbs up from staff,” she said.

General training in the use of the electronic medical record and CoWs will start early next year, as more computers arrive. Ultimately, there will be up to 280 CoWs in action at Westmead.

Westrmead Hospital physiotherapy department staff Jane Wu, Elizabeth Katalinic and Josip Sulentic.

“I am honoured and humbled to receive this award,” Prof Maberly said.

“My long career in diabetes has been fuelled by my passion to make a difference to the lives of people living with the disease.

“Western Sydney has been identified as a diabetes hotspot in NSW, with 50 per cent of the population at high risk of developing type-2 diabetes.”

Diabetes NSW & ACT CEO Sturt Eastwood, who presented the award, said the award was given to those who had made a significant and sustainable contribution to the diabetes agenda.

The Pulse | November 2016 4

In western Sydney, we have one of the most culturally diverse communities in the world.

We are building strong partnerships with our community in many ways.

A key pathway into our community is the Western Sydney Local Health District Consumer Council.

The council enables many voices to be part of our conversations inside our district and aims to strengthen partnerships with our communities.

We listen, we learn and we better understand how to serve our communities.

For example, through our growing partnership with Cumberland Council - we have recently recruited several community representatives who are participating in council meetings and sharing their networks and knowledge with us (see pic).

Additionally, here is a great example of how our representatives join us to the community.

Anne Stanfield, one of our community

There were three “big deals” for our district during 2016 that I spoke about at our annual public meeting - building hospitals, linking up care between our colleagues in the community and our hospital-based services and preventing illness, especially diabetes.

Building hospitals The opening of the first stage of the new Blacktown Hospital was a magical moment!

So many groups - patients, community, managers, planners, politicians, builders and clinicians - contributed to this splendid building. It made me choke up when I saw it and I thought “this community deserves this magnificent place. They have been waiting so long!”

Mount Druitt has also benefitted from the building program. The heavy earth-moving equipment is now at work on the second, even bigger, building at Blacktown and commencing work at Westmead. We need to keep an eye on the ball of quality care during these times of monumental change and renewal.

Linking up careWe have special funding from NSW Health,

courtesy of NSW Health Minister Skinner, to demonstrate the benefits of linking up care for patients with complex, ongoing health problems such as heart trouble, emphysema and diabetes.

The demonstrators, as they are called, are

From the Chief Executive

From the Board Chair

Executive Update

It was a remarkable year to reflect on!

Your opinion is being heard

testing new ways of working across the gap between hospital and home. Colleagues from Western Sydney University are helping us evaluate and learn from it. We can do it because of the great help we get from our Primary Health Care Network of GPs. Exciting!

Prevention Unless we prevent serious injuries and lifestyle illnesses like diabetes, we will be judged to have neglected half our responsibility. Accordingly, we are investing in a multi-partner effort to tackle diet, better treatment for people with obesity that puts them at risk of diabetes and treating people with the problem to minimise foot, heart and eye complications. We are committed through education and school-based support to reduce smoking and abusive drinking.

So we are doing lots. Fundamentally, we are here for sick people who need our care.

We value immensely the support of our wonderful community in making western Sydney famous for its health and healthcare!

Professor Stephen Leeder Board Chair

representatives, is a senior volunteer with the St Vincent de Paul Society in Parramatta.

Within Vinnies, Anne has a role that extends across western Sydney.

Anne saw an opportunity to introduce her organisation to WSLHD and the result is the recent launch of the collaborative Make Healthy Normal campaign in the Parramatta St Vinnie’s store.

UCrane Bolt is getting ready to build the multi-storey car park at Westmead Hospital.

Thanks to all our Western Sydney Local Health District consumer and community representatives who are having and making a huge impact for the health and wellbeing of the communities of western Sydney.

Danny O’Connor Chief Executive

Consumer representatives Bob Hunter, Ravindra Singh, WentWest Consumer Council chair Julie Milsom and WSLHD board member Di O’Halloran.

The Pulse | November 2016 5

The WSLHD Board warmly invites all staff to our District’s End-of-Year Celebration

RSVP to wslhd-mail@health.nsw.gov.au Thursday 8 December 2016

2016 Western Sydney Local Health District

13 December 2016, 3.30pm – 4.30pm Special Functions Room, Level 1

Education Block, Westmead Hospital

Board End-of-Year Celebration

The Pulse | November 2016 6

News from across WSLHD

Westmead Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care unit occupational therapist Dr Traci-Anne Goyen has been named the runner-up for the annual Humpty Dumpty Foundation Michelle Beets Memorial Award.

The award recognises the outstanding achievements of individuals in the advancements of children’s health in NSW.

“I was overwhelmed to be nominated by Dr Luig for this outstanding award,” Dr Goyen said.

“Being recognised for my clinical work and research to improve developmental outcomes in our high-risk babies is amazing; I owe this award to the dedicated team at Westmead.”

Tiny babies doctor a worthy recipient

Westmead Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care unit’s Dr Traci-Anne Goyen.

Westmead Hospital staff have marked Antibiotic Awareness Week (November 14 - 18) with a colourful stall, huge balloons, lolly treats and stuffed animals depicting different types of bugs!

Antibiotic Awareness Week was held to raise awareness of antibiotic resistance and promote the responsible use of antibiotics.

Antimicrobial resistance is a major issue worldwide and threatens the prevention and treatment of infections caused by bacteria, parasites, viruses and fungi.

Congratulations to Westmead Hospital’s pharmacy department who hosted a stall in the main entrance. Staff and patients were asked to wear purple and pledge to

Westmead Hospital pharmacy staff Dr Ana Domazatovska, Dr Susan Maddocks, Dr Nicole Gilroy, Kristin Xenos, Tony Lai and Dr Tasnin Hasan.

fight against antibiotic resistance. This stall was judged the best in Australia by the NPS MedicineWise Antibiotic Awareness Week Twitter Competition. Prescriber Pledge 1. Chart a review date for antimicrobials. 2. Step down to oral therapy when appropriate. 3. Cease surgical antibiotic prophylaxis after 24 hours. 4. Log restricted antimicrobials in Guidance MS.

Patient Pledge 1. Don’t ask for antibiotics for common colds and flu as they have no effect on viruses. 2. I will minimise the spread of germs by using good hygiene. 3. I will be mindful that it is possible to pass on antibiotic resistant bacteria to others.

Training session scores giant goals

WSLHD Primary Health Care Education and Research Unit staff and Care Team from the Greater Western Sydney (GWS) Giants have successfully trained more than forty high school students with skills to improve their local communities. After participating in the Students As Lifestyle Activists (SALSA) Program in their school, students built their capacity as leaders and enjoyed fitness testing in the GWS facilities at Sydney Olympic Park.

Year 10 students said the key things they learnt were “different ways you can lead and make a change in the community” and “how everyone can work as a team to create something great”.

After an action-packed day, students came up with some practical solutions to make it easier for them and their families to eat well and be active. Through a partnership with Blacktown City Council, the students will pitch these solutions to council managers next week!

For further information about the Pitch session or the SALSA program, contact WSLHD Primary Health Care and Research Unit on 9845 6505.

Stuffed toys warn of bad bugs

Year 10 students converged on Olympic Park for leadership training with the GWS Giants.

Breaking barriers

Blacktown Hospital recently hosted an Information and Orientation Day for newly arrived refugee and migrant families.

Sponsored by A2Z Accountants in Blacktown, the program provides opportunities for families from Arabic and Punjabi speaking communities to visit the hospital and spend the day learning about healthcare, our services and how to access appropriate care.

New residents and families are introduced to Blacktown Hospital.

The Pulse | November 2016 7

News from across WSLHD

Spread the LHD newsThe Pulse is now going out fortnightly! It’s a fantastic tool to promote or share your project, celebration, initiative, success or event.

This publication is distributed to more than 11,000 staff in Western Sydney Local Health District and our many stakeholders.

To submit your story for consideration, we require high-resolution photos with captions and a minimum of 150 words describing the story.

For further enquiries, phone 8890 4564 or email wslhd-corporatecomms@health.nsw.gov.au

Publication is at the discretion of the editor and chief executive. Items may be edited for length, style and quality.

November 2016 second edition Graphic design and editorial co-ordinator: Jenny Harrison, WSLHD Corporate Communications Specialist. Sub-editor: Emma Spillett, WSLHD Senior Corporate Communications Specialist.

Blacktown Hospital receives new life-saving technology

Blacktown Hospital’s special care nursery nurse Lauren Buttsworth.

Networking over wine and cheese

Luke Sloane welcoming guests to Westmead Hospital’s Research Wine and Cheese Night.

Life-saving paediatric healthcare has taken a step into the future, with the installation of Variety’s Vision for Life technology at Blacktown Hospital, thanks to Variety – the Children’s Charity and Momento Foundation.

Vision for Life is state-of-the-art telemedicine equipment, connecting local hospital staff with paediatric specialists at the NETS centre, ensuring all patients have access to the best healthcare available - no matter where they live.

Blacktown Hospital is the latest NSW hospital to receive the technology, which has been completely funded by donors to Variety – the Children’s Charity. The equipment is now located in the hospital’s emergency department and neo-natal intensive care unit.

Using the Vision for Life technology, specialists at NETS are able to visually diagnose a child, ensuring they receive the correct diagnosis and immediate life-saving treatment.

Access to this equipment will help save the lives of children, cut down on misdiagnosis and unnecessary use of expensive aeromedical transport.

Recently, WSLHD Nursing and Midwifery hosted their final Nursing and Midwifery Research wine and cheese evening for 2016.

The night provided an opportunity for staff to network with colleagues and hear from researchers who are undertaking research projects.

It provided a platform for our researchers to showcase, educate and inspire staff to become involved in and participate in research.

Westmead Hospital clinical midwifery consultant Sarah Melov presented “VTE Risk and Postpartum lying-in: Acculturation of Indian and Chinese Women”.

Nurse educator Katherine Schaffarczyk presented “Factors contributing to non-

occupational falls from ladders in men 50 years and over”.

WSLHD board chair Professor Stephen Leeder showed his support and passion for research, sharing research guidance and inspiration from his long career in public health research, educational development and as the director of the WSLHD Research and Education Network.

WSLHD Nursing and Midwifery directorate look forward to hosting further Research Wine and Cheese evenings next year!

If you would like more information on upcoming Nursing and Midwifery Research Wine and Cheese Evenings or would like to present at the next evening, please contact WSLHD-NursingMidwiferyExecutive@health.nsw.gov.au

Blacktown Hospital’s general manager Sue-Anne Redmond thanked Momento Foundation and Variety – the Children’s Charity for their generous donation.

“This equipment will greatly enhance care at Blacktown Hospital, particularly for our tiniest patients,” she said.

“The machines will enable our hospital staff to have instant access to paediatric specialists, which can be critical when treating children in an emergency situation.”

Variety – the Children’s Charity CEO Tam Johnston said Variety was committed to

helping kids who are sick, disadvantaged or have special needs.

“The installation of Vision for Life equipment in hospitals is yet another way Variety helps kids in need and their families,” said Ms Johnston.

For more information about Vision for Life, visit: http://visionforlife.org.au/

The Pulse | November 2016 8

World class Westmead Breast Cancer Institute

In the Spotlight will regularly celebrate community services improving our health

The hard-working, dedicated and incredible staff from the Westmead Breast Cancer Institute.

In the Spotlight

Meet Westmead Hospital Breast Cancer Institute’s (BCI) research manager Masrura Kabir.

Mas, as she is affectionately known, started at Westmead Hospital in 1997, working in Public Health and Community Medicine, before leaving in 2001 to work at Liverpool Hospital.

She returned to Westmead Hospital in 2005, working in the Clinical Research Excellence in Haematological Malignancy unit as a data/project manager.

During this period, Masrura has managed many NHMRC-funded national studies and had a key role in the opening of the Infectious Disease Clinical Trial unit, leading the Clinical Trial Unit until 2014. She was in the primary research team for the Sydney post-bone marrow transplant survey, supported by ACI.

In July 2014, Masrura joined the BCI as research manager.

“My role at the BCI is to establish successful collaboration among researchers and other healthcare stakeholders, which will lead to innovation in research and more rapid translation into clinical practice,” Mas said.

In 2015, Masrura successfully secured an innovation grant from Cancer Institute NSW for Breast Screening - “using a workplace platform to improve breast screening rates in western Sydney”.

“Recently, gene expression profiling studies are getting lots of attention and BCI will run the first decision impact study using multigene assay for women in western Sydney, “ she said.

“The project will evaluate the proportion of patients whose recommendations changed from ’recommending chemotherapy’ to ‘not recommending chemotherapy’ after the results of the multigene test were are made available.

“We are in the process of creating and implementing the breast cancer module electronic medical record. This is keeping me really busy, especially as I ensure quality assurance and data integrity is maintained.

“Working in WSLHD is fantastic with lots of interest in research with the growth and redevelopments in our hospitals.

“It’s an excellent time to be here and I’m honoured to part of this team to support and ensure our patients receive the best healthcare.”

to improve patient care by promoting and translating research into practice, focusing on collaboration and innovation.

For further information about the BCI, visit:

http://www.bci.org.au/

To make an appointment for a free mammogram for women between 50 - 74, call 13 20 50.

Westmead Breast Cancer Institute (BCI) resear-ach manager Masrura Kabir.

Researcher making a difference

The Westmead Breast Cancer Institute (BCI) provides comprehensive, co-ordinated clinical care for patients with breast cancer and non-cancer breast disease.

The BCI is recognised as one of Australia's leading organisations in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.

This is achieved through multidisciplinary collaboration to mange linkage of screening, diagnosis (including a comprehensive breast imaging and diagnostic services), treatment, (inclusive of surgery and adjuvant therapies), supportive care and follow-up of patients.

The services are delivered through breast diagnostic and outpatients clinics based at Westmead.

BCI Sunflower Clinics for screening mammography are located in four Myers stores across western Sydney (Parramatta, Blacktown, Penrith and Castle Hill), and in hospital locations in Mount Druitt, Auburn, Lithgow and Katoomba.

BCI provides educational programs for consumers, patients and health professionals.

The principle of the BCI research program is

The Pulse | November 2016 9

News from across WSLHD

Researchers winning medals like Olympians

Our research community are like an Olympic team - winning medals by the fistful!

These awards recognise the contribution of our dedicated teams such as that led by Clara Chow, improving the follow-up in the community for patients treated in hospital for heart problems, using clever apps and easy access clinics to ensure life-saving treatments are available 24/7. to all.

Brilliant things are happening for patients with ghastly hepatitis C. Until recently we could not treat it effectively but now we can! Vital expensive drugs are provided by the Federal Government. Jacob George and his team are blazing the trail.

Research combined with community and patient education are very good for your health!

Stephen Leeder, WSLHD Research and Education Network director

Darcy Unit dons sneakers for charity walk

Westmead Hospital nurses Joanne Bancroft, Caroline Mapanao, Maria Soriano and Michelle Attard.

Research and Education Network

Nursing staff from Westmead Hospital’s operating suite’s Darcy Unit are pulling on their runners for a 30km coast trek walk in March 2017 to raise money for the Fred Hollows Foundation.

Michelle Attard, Caroline Mapanao, Maria Soriano and Joanne Bancroft have been busy not only preparing physically for the challenge, but baking up a storm to raise money ahead of the big walk.

On November 16, the group held a delicious morning tea in the operating suites, dishing up loads of sweet treats for their colleagues.They then took a trolley around some of the wards to offer their goodies to hungry workers.

The group is keen to raise as much money as possible for the Fred Hollows Foundation and have organised a fundraising activity every month in the lead-up to the big walk!

The Fred Hollows Foundation aims to raise funds to prevent unnecessary loss of sight in Indigenous people.

To sponsor the Westmead team, visit: http://sydney.coastrek.com.au/ and search Team Darcy.

VALE to veteran staffer and beloved family man - Noel GaudryIt is with great sadness that we farewell our much-loved friend and colleague Noel Gaudry, who passed away suddenly on Thursday, 3 November.

Many staff would have been touched by Noel’s genial character, fabulous grin and dedication to his work during his 37 years in Cumberland, Westmead and community maintenance.

Noel started with western Sydney health services in 1979 as a carpenter in the maintenance department at Cumberland Hospital.

Noel advanced into a management role for maintenance, and was based at Jeffrey House, managing the upkeep of many of our community health and aged care facilities.

Noel’s many friendships extended outside of work, where he was also an active sportsman, playing weekly touch football and water skiing in summer and winter.

Noel was an accomplished shooter and had a love for the country and outback where he would happily camp solo for extended periods.

His greatest passion, however, was for his two children and grandson.

Noel was known for his professional work ethic, but also for his larrikin personality.

His happy and witty presence will be sorely missed by all who have had the pleasure to work with Noel and our thoughts are with his family at this time of loss.

Family man and beloved staffer Noel Gaudry - may you rest in peace!

The Pulse | November 2016 10

Building the future

RACE project: helps older patients get home sooner

Do you want to be part of Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospital’s history? If so, we want YOU!

Patient Subramaniam Rajaratnam said the RACE program was fantastic.

Do you have ideas on how a new hospital should look, what it should have inside, what type of artwork it should display and how it could make patients more comfortable? If so, then we want to hear from YOU!

Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals are looking for community members of all ages, cultural backgrounds and language groups across western Sydney, including former patients, carers and those who are – or have been – active in the health sector, to share their ideas.

Participants can be involved as much – or as little! – as they want. Simply sharing ideas and experiences in the healthcare system is valuable.

WSLHD consumer and community engagement manager Dr Coralie Wales is calling for community members to have their say about the future development of Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals.

More than $300 million was invested in Stage 1 of the hospital’s expansion project.

The $400 million Stage 2 will create new facilities for dialysis, emergency, maternity, birthing, intensive care and paediatrics.

“We’d like to hear how patients, carers and community members think we can improve our new facility designs to make them people-friendly, welcoming and comfortable,” Dr Wales said.

Lalor Park couple Ken and Marjory Freeman were part of the Stage 1 project, which has been recognised nationally and internationally for consumer initiatives like carer zones, the chemotherapy lounge and arts programs.

Married for more than 50 years, the enthusiastic pair joined WSLHD’s Consumer Representative Council, participating in policy-making conversations and sharing their perspectives on health delivery.

“We helped the hospital planners by giving our opinions, participating in forums and committees and telling them what we thought the hospital needed,” Ken said.

“We, as consumers and residents, make different decisions to the clinicians and

nursing staff; between us, we have lots of life experience - we’re pleased hospital staff are listening to us and value what we say.”

To become a consumer representative, contact Dr Coralie Wales on 8838 6378 or email WSLHD_Get_Involved@health.nsw.gov.au

BMDH Project Stage 1 consumers Marjory and Ken Freeman.

Westmead Hospital is leading the charge in geriatric healthcare, launching a new pilot program focused on discharging elderly patients quicker by offering them treatment in their home.

The Rapid Access to Care and Evaluation (RACE) project, launched last month, aims to offer elderly patients an alternative to hospital admission, enabling suitable candidates to be treated in their own home, rather than in a hospital bed.

A multi-disciplinary team, including Westmead Hospital’s occupational therapists, physiotherapists, social workers, doctors and community nursing and home support services, visit the patient once they get home from hospital, offering them treatment and support, along with access to in-home mobility devices.

The pilot has already treated nearly 40 people, with great feedback from patients and clinical staff.

Westmead Hospital geriatric medicine head Dr Ray Cabela said RACE offered a different approach to patient care.

“This project focuses on a more person-centered model of healthcare for older

patients,” he said.

“Many of the patients involved would have had to be admitted to hospital if it wasn’t for RACE; this way, we’ve been able to treat them in their home, where they are comfortable, and offer them follow-up in-home support.”

The project is running from the hospital’s newly renovated Healthcare for Older People Earlier (HOPE) unit, which was refurbished as part of the Westmead Redevelopment.

Patients who are treated in the unit are assessed for the RACE program – if their injury is deemed to be manageable from home, they are discharged and given a health record that is updated on an ongoing basis by visiting doctors, other in-home specialists and service providers.

“The RACE program aims to improve communication between patients, carers, their clinicians and service providers,” Dr Cabela said.

“Patients are able to see what is happening now, what will happen next and who to contact if they are concerned about specific things related to their health and treatment.”

Patient Subramaniam Rajaratnam came into HOPE after falling in his bathroom.

The 83-year-old was discharged under the RACE program and treated at home.

Mr Rajaratnam’s daughter Kiri Thabapalan said the program was fantastic.

“This treatment process is just so much better,” she said.

“If he was in hospital, it would have been harder on everyone – he’s in his own house, his own environment where he feels comfortable.”The pilot will wrap-up in December 2016.

The Pulse | November 2016 11

News from across WSLHD

Calling all amateur rowers!

WSLHD disability co-oordinator Kate Murdoch.

It’s all in the name

Blacktown Hospital ED volunteer Taara Hammer.

With a needle and thread

Zonta group representatives Kitty Daws, Helen Allison and Sue Woodward.

To celebrate International Day of People with Disability, WSLHD has partnered with Rowing Australia and EFM Westmead, to host an indoor rowing event, which will form part of the Australian Indoor Rowing Championships on Wednesday, November 30.

The event is open to all ages and abilities - you don’t need to be a rower to participate!

There are multiple race categories, with age divisions and races to accommodate participants with disabilities.

Events will run all day from 9am and will include:• Men’s and Women’s Open and Lightweight

500m• Men’s and Women’s Open and Lightweight

1000m• Men’s and Women’s Open and Lightweight

2000m• Men’s and Women’s Open and Lightweight

1min rip• Team Relay 4x500m (Team Mixed)

To register a race at Westmead Hospital, visit: https://www.revolutionise.com.au/rowingaus/events/ Entries close Thursday, November 24.

For further information, contact WSLHD disability co-ordinator Kate Murdoch on 8838 6389 or kate.murdoch@health.nsw.gov.au

Congratulations to Blacktown Hospital emergency department volunteer Taara Hammer who came up with the hospital’s new volunteer newsletter title “Open Hearts”.

Blacktown Hospital voluntary services coordinator Janice Low said the name represents volunteering or something from the "heart".

“We figure the name ‘Open Hearts’ links in with the Pulse newsletter, but also relates to health and wellbeing,” she said.

Taara Hammer started volunteering in Blacktown Hospital’s emergency department in July.

You will see Taara in the emergency department every Monday.

She enjoys her role she loves chatting to patients and hearing their stories.

She also loves the interaction with staff as they are helpful and make her feel part of the team.

If you’re interesting in volunteering at Blacktown Hospital, contact Janice Low on 8670 5159 or janice.low@health.nsw.gov.au

Blacktown Hospital’s dementia ward has extended a huge thank you to the Zonta group, who donated 110 fiddle cuffs to patients.

The cuffs, which are made from material and buttons, help dementia patients who may be agitated or anxious.

Hospital staff place the cuffs on patients’ arms to prevent them from trying to remove their cannulas and catheters.

Zonta organised for several local groups to contribute fiddle cuffs to the Blacktown Hospital haul, including volunteers from the Merrylands Library Knitting Group, the Whalan Community Action Group, the Nepean View Club and Plumpton Village.

Clinical nurse consultant (dementia & delirium) Katie Conciatore said she was incredibly grateful for the donation.

Katie is the “unofficial” queen of fiddle cuffs. Since her efforts were publicised earlier this year, she has been bombarded with offers from local knitting groups and other volunteers to help make the items.

Anyone interested in sewing or donating materials should contact Katie on 0427 480 681 or Katie.conciatore@health.nsw.gov.au

The Pulse | November 2016 12

Meet the teamCorporate Communications

Corporate Communications communication integration specialist Anne Markey

Earlier this year, while working in the media, I was sent to the Ivory Coast. More than 60 per cent of the population there live below the poverty line, education remains a significant challenge and even though it is the world’s largest cocoa producer, I met people who had never tasted chocolate. It was a life-changing experience: I decided to look for work in health or education and now, nine months later, I’m part of the Corporate Communications team at WSLHD. I’m astounded by what I’ve seen since arriving here: research that will change lives, people who, every day, make a real difference. As the communication integration specialist, I work with the team to develop and execute projects ranging from internal communication to the public component of community health and wellbeing research. We have a lot of moving parts, and one of my jobs is to work out how we can pull them together for bigger, better results. You can find me on anne.markey@health.nsw.gov.au.

News from across WSLHD

Discovery night unearths gems

Sweet TweetsWith Sia Anthopoulos

It’s been a great couple of weeks on social media for WSLHD.

Read on to see what our lovely followers have been tweeting about us:

Reen @Miss_Rinish A big thank you 2 all doctors & nurses in blktwn Hospital (emergency, ICU, High dep ward) 4 saving my life. U all r da best

Wendy Cain @orangewendy Best Tea Trolley ever came

past my desk. Delicious cases and all proceeds to @FredHollows.

The WSLHD Facebook page has reached 7,759 likes!

This post reached more than 8,300 people with 279 likes:

HUMANS OF THE HOSPITAL I “I’ve been a nurse for 50 years. I started nursing to keep medicine in my family – my uncle was a doctor. I was 16 when I took myself to the Sydney Hospital to become a nurse. I hadn’t applied or filled in any papers, I just turned up. When I told my mother, she said: ‘oh, I’m not sure that’s the right thing for a young lady to do’ but I was determined. I started working in a medical ward. I was pretty shell-shocked at first but there was something I loved about nursing and I still love it. I came to Westmead in 1994. I started as a midwife but when my daughter went to university, I decided I wanted a change so I went into endoscopy. I get enormous satisfaction from just being a nurse – in caring for patients, witnessing the endoscopy unit’s growth and what we’re able to offer patients,” - Robyn Brown, nurse educator (endoscopy), Westmead Hospital.

The Corporate Communications multimedia team produced a video encouraging staff to support Movember and donate funds to help men live happier, healthier longer lives.

Check out the video by visiting: https://youtu.be/ku9m4g9fP_8

Popular posts

Greg @mencareCC Well done @BMDHPRoject

@WestSYDHEALTH #carer zones stmarysstar.com.au/story/4268175/… via @stmarysstar

At the Westmead Research Institute Discovery Night, among the awards given to young research workers in recognition of their commitment to research was one of two WSLHD Early Career Research awards - to Dr Guoping Zheng. His research currently centres on the kidney. The award was presented by board chairman Stephen Leeder.

Prestigious award for liver expert

Westmead Hospital gastroenterology and hepatology clinical director Professor Jacob George has received a prestigious award from the University of Sydney for his contribution to liver disease and the practice of hepatology.

In particular, Jacob was acknowledged for his work in the fields of genomics, viral hepatitis, fatty liver disease, liver cancer and translational clinical research.

"This award is a testament to the untiring efforts of the clinical, basic and translational science researchers and clinicians from the Storr Liver team," Prof George said.

The University of Sydney Vice-Chancellor Dr Michael Spence awards Professor Jacob George.

The Pulse | November 2016 13

Save the dateBoard End-of-Year Event You’re invited to commemorate ‘the year that was’ with the WSLHD Board members

Tuesday, 13 December, 2016

3.30pm - 4.30pm

Special Functions Room, Westmead Hospital

All welcome. For catering purposes, RSVP

to email wslhd-mail@health.nsw.gov.au by

8 December.

Westmead Women’s and Newborn Health Conference Friday 5 May and Saturday, 6 May, 2017

Westmead Hospital Education and

Conference Centre

Call for abstracts!

Abstract submission deadline 25

November 2016

For further information or to submit your abstract, visit: WSLHD-Women@Newbornhealth@health.nsw.gov.au

Westmead Hospital Staff Christmas PartySunday, 11 December, 2016

10.30am - 3.30pm

Wistaria Gardens, Cumberland Hospital

Registrations are essential.

To register, email WSLHD-WAGM@health.nsw.gov.au

Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals’ Nursing and Midwifery Research SymposiumCall for abstracts open 2016

12 April 2017

Blacktown Hospital Campus

University of Western Sydney Auditorium

To register or for further information,

contact Caroline.ODonnell@health.nsw.

gov.au or 0422 006 786

Calling all rowing enthusiastsAustralian Indoor Rowing Championship Wednesday, 30 November, 2016

Westmead Hospital

To register contact Kate Murdoch, WSLHD

disability coordinator on 8838 6389 or

email kate.murdoch@health.nsw.gov.au

Feedback & Events

WESTERN SYDNEY

An Australian Government InitiativeYou’re InvitedPatient Centred Medical Home Showcase Transforming primary care in western SydneyWhen: Tuesday, 29th November 2016 5:00pm – 5:45pm: Exhibition & Registrations 5:45pm – Formal proceedings commenceWhere: Rosehill Gardens Racecourse, James Ruse Drive, Rosehill 2142RSVP: With your name and any dietary requirements to events@wentwest.com.au to secure your place todayKeynote Dr Kean-Seng Lim MBBS (Syd), FRACGP Speaker: · Vice President – Australian Medical Association · Director – Western Sydney Primary Health Network · Clinical Lead – NEHTA · 2015 RACGP General Practitioner of the Year

This event offers RACGP QICPD points. Please visit www.wentwest.com.au for more information

Grateful for care from Hills Health Thank you so much for your lovely card, beautiful flowers, photos and words of sympathy on the passing of our mum Carmela. They touched us deeply.

Thank you also to everyone who came to her funeral. We are grateful that you came. Mum made many friends at the group who she loved and respected dearly. During her illness, she would repeatedly ask us “do you think I will ever be able to return to the group?”

With determination, she returned to the group. It is fitting that she spent the last day of her lie with her friends at the group.

Thank you for your friendship and love for Carmela.

The Bombardiere family

Thanks a bunch

District supports World Thrombosis Day WSLHD celebrated World Thrombosis Day (Oct 13) by hosting information displays across our facilities, informing consumers of the risks, and steps to use, to avoid the development of blood clots.

Venous thromboebolism (VTE) is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. In Australia, 30, 000 cases of hospital-associated VTE occur each year.

Sponsored by the WSLHD VTE Expert Advisory Group and supported by the Westmead Association, staff provided information and advice about the benefits of using compression stockings, keeping mobile and the correct use of medications.

Many people are unaware of how common blood clots can be and what they can do, with support, to prevent them. To prevent VTE, hospital staff should evaluate all patients for their risk of developing blood clots and use appropriate prevention and treatment procedures.

Staff can obtain further information about VTE, by visiting: http://wslhdintranet.wsahs.nsw.gov.au/Clinical-Governance/WSLHD-Venous-Thromboembolism--VTE--Advisory-Committee/VTE-Policies/VTE-Policies

Blacktown Hospital surgeons Dr Joseph Choi, Dr Sam O’Neill and Medtronic company representative Cathy Paton.