In this episode of Outcomes, Katie Farrell and Nicole Greig from the South Western Sydney Local Health District join the discussion to explore the challenges and innovations in maternity care within one of New South Wales’ most diverse and rapidly growing regions.

Katie and Nicole are working to help ensure that every expectant mother receives timely and effective care, regardless of their background or circumstances.

As leaders in healthcare, they share their insights on overcoming common barriers to providing inclusive, high-quality maternity care, including financial constraints and health literacy challenges.

They discuss the district’s ongoing efforts to enhance service delivery, including collaborations with community organisations and the integration of technology to reach underserved populations.

Resources and links:

• South Western Sydney Local Health District
• Kate Farrell on LinkedIn
• Complete Birth website (Nicole Greig)

Connect:

• Ausmed website
• Ausmed on Facebook
• Ausmed on LinkedIn
• Will Egan on LinkedIn

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode Outcomes, Will Egan is joined by Bernadette O'Connor, the former Director of Allied Health at the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne. Bernadette brings over four decades of experience in health care, sharing her journey from a speech pathologist to leading major healthcare initiatives. She discusses the Stepped Care Project, a transformative approach to paediatric diagnostic pathways that ensures consistent, accurate, and transparent care for children and their families.

Bernadette delves into the importance of early developmental interventions and the power of rethinking healthcare processes to serve patients better. Her insights provide a valuable template for other healthcare services looking to adopt consumer-centric practices. Tune in to hear practical examples, innovative strategies, and tips from Bernadette's extensive experience in paediatrics and allied health, showcasing how small changes can lead to significant improvements in healthcare outcomes.

Resources and links:

• The Royal Children's Hospital website
• Bernadette O'Connor on LinkedIn

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we are joined by Simon Kerrigan, Managing Director of Guide Healthcare. Simon is a passionate physiotherapist dedicated to reshaping societal views on the capabilities of older adults. He dives the importance of allied health, highlighting key professions such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, dieticians, and podiatrists. He discusses the current trend of aged care providers employing their own allied health teams rather than subcontracting services, emphasising the value added by specialised providers like Guide Healthcare.

Simon explains the numerous benefits of physiotherapy for older adults, including pain management, post-surgery recovery, and fall prevention. He advocates for a proactive approach to physiotherapy, focusing on preventative care to enhance strength, balance, and confidence. The conversation also tackles ageist stereotypes, promoting the view of older adults as motivated and capable. Simon shares insights on maintaining independence and involving older adults in enjoyable activities.

Additionally, Simon discusses Guide Healthcare's innovative event-based approach to encourage physical activity among older adults, creating community and competition through exercise-inspired events.

Resources and links:

• Guide Healthcare’s website
• Simon Kerrigan on Linkedin

Connect:

• Ausmed website
• Ausmed on Facebook
• Ausmed on LinkedIn
• Will Egan on LinkedIn

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.