Queensland health contingent impressed by Bay healthcare

Queensland health contingent impressed by Bay healthcare initiatives

Queensland healthcare leaders were left “very impressed” following a day-long visit to Tauranga Hospital this week. (Wednesday 31 January)

Queensland Health’s Deputy Director General Clinical Excellence Division Dr John Wakefield and Deputy Director General Purchasing and Performance Nick Steele, spent the day learning how staff achieved impressive results in two recent initiatives. These were improving the care of frail aged patients and decreasing Emergency Department waiting times despite increasing demand.

“As the population ages, and demand for healthcare rapidly increases, healthcare systems are always on the lookout for innovative models of care which combine better outcomes for patients, improved quality of care, and supporting patients to return to wellness sooner,” said Dr Wakefield. “We first came across the Bay of Plenty work at a conference and were keen to learn first-hand from the team.

“The combination of clinical leaders willing to challenge past practices, an improvement coach, and staff seeing a real change in outcomes really has delivered better results for patients. We have been very impressed and want to thank everyone for their warm welcome and sharing their journey and results with us.

“We run a large public healthcare system and are always looking for best practice ideas to share with our health services providers. Hearing about the best of what’s happening in the Bay of Plenty can only benefit Queensland patients.”

Bay of Plenty District Health Board (BOPDHB) Chief Operating Officer Pete Chandler said the day had been very positive.

“Peer to peer experience is so valuable. Healthcare is such a dynamic sector which is always changing and learning from colleagues, wherever they may be, can help improve services.”

Mr Chandler reflected on Dr Wakefield’s kind words about BOPDHB staff.

“It certainly makes you reflect on the excellence of the people we have working here. Their energy and commitment came across loud and clear today. It’s that energy from our frontline staff which drives change and that’s all focussed on improving patient care.”

The group from Queensland Health and Francis Health are on a 4-day trip to New Zealand which includes visits to the Health Quality Safety Commission (HQSC) and Canterbury District Health Board.

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