NT Health

The walls at the Alan Walker Cancer Care Centre (AWCCC) at Royal Darwin Hospital are looking a little brighter, thanks to a generous donation from patient, Brian (pictured left) and his partner Chai (pictured right). A striking photograph titled ‘Morning Storm’ can now be seen from one end of the chemotherapy unit to the other. It was taken by Darwin photographer Peter Jarver during the wet season in 1987. Over a number of years, Brian has received care from the team at the AWCCC, and the donation is his way of recognising their dedication to providing ongoing support for patients and their families. “The staff at Alan Walker have been with me through many ups and downs. Particularly when you are first diagnosed with cancer, it is a very hard time,” Brian said. “I wanted to donate the photograph and ensure it was hung in a prominent position at the centre, so that all staff and patients can enjoy it. “The care and services at Alan Walker are very high quality – everyone who works here is magic.” For Amber, the Nurse Unit Manager at AWCCC, the addition of the photograph is a welcomed talking point or moment for reflection. “The great thing about having art in the unit, is that it is up to you how you interpret it – it’s very special to have a photograph that can mean something different to each person,” Amber said.  

Calling new parents in Darwin! 📣 Did you know there’re support groups for first time parents held in the Greater Darwin region? Located in Parap and Palmerston, they cater to babies aged up-to 12 weeks. Child and Family Health Nurses Rachelle (left) and Naizy (right) facilitate ‘Babies of Darwin’ sessions on Wednesday mornings at Nylander Child and Family Clinic in Parap. “There are no set agendas for the sessions, it’s about what the new parents in the room that day need,” Rachelle said. “We always start with an introduction and we might ask a question, such as what’s something that’s been going well with your baby, and what’s something you’ve found challenging. “Those questions spark lots of conversations – parents learn from each other, and often find reassurance, as they’re sharing similar journeys in caring for newborns for the first time.”  There is one item the facilitators always address at the ‘Babies of Darwin’ group, and that’s self-care. “We ask the parents what they’ve done for themselves in the past week, and what they plan to do for themselves in the coming week,” Naizy said. “As part of this discussion, we remind them that you need to take care of your own health to support your baby’s health. “As a mum to teenagers, I also like to remind new parents to cherish the time with their babies, as looking back, it doesn’t last for long!” Child and Family Health also help to connect parents beyond the organised newborn support sessions by creating WhatsApp of Facebook groups every few weeks. “These virtual groups mean the parents can keep in touch after their babies are older than 12 weeks. Some meet up for walks or go for coffees – or even contact each other when they’re up in the middle of the night with their babies!” Rachelle said. To find out more about ‘Babies of Darwin’ or ‘Babies of Palmerston’ call 08 8922 7301

It’s time to pull out your resistance bands, roll out your exercise ball and slide out your foam roller for World Physiotherapy Day! 🙌   The focus for this year is on low back pain (LBP) and the important role of physiotherapists in assisting with management and prevention.   A common condition, LBP can be experienced at any age and is a leading cause of injury and disability worldwide.   Mitchell Horwood, a physiotherapist at Alice Spring Hospital, works with a range of patients experiencing both short and long term back pain which affects their daily lives. Coordinating the Pain Clinic at Alice Spring Hospital, Mitchell assists clients with LBP by providing a holistic approach to managing the condition, including education, pain management strategies, physical activity and rest.   “The best approach we as health care providers can take in these cases is to provide education and rehabilitation to encourage people to take control of their pain, regain confidence and trust in their back, overcome fear of movement and injury as well as achieving a healthy lifestyle.”   Physiotherapy services are available across the NT, see more information here: https://lnkd.in/g4k57Yde

With the upcoming Allied Health Excellence Awards, we’re shining a light on some of our past winners! Working as an occupational therapist since 2003, Andrew has spent the last 17 years providing services in both remote and urban locations across the NT. His interest in technology and passion to deliver services for people transitioning onto the NDIS, Andrew started his own practice in 2018, focusing on providing support to wheelchair users through the delivery of clinical assessments and recommendations as well as providing technical assistance for a range of needs. For his contributions to the industry, Andrew was awarded the Excellence in Clinical Practice in 2023. “Working in the disability sector, allied health services play a key role in helping people gain better access to their home, workplaces and community to ensure everyone can pursue the things that are important to them”, said Andrew, highlighting the importance of providing a holistic range of care for clients. Commenting on his time in the industry, Andrew reflected on how the opportunity to work with people and technology drew him to a career in Allied Health – “as well as the portability of practice, it’s the opportunity of working with great clients and families, and alongside professionals who are committed to delivering quality services here in the NT”. There is still time to nominate for the 2024 Allied Health Excellence Awards – nominations are open via the website ➡ https://lnkd.in/gha5mgG6

Celebrating career opportunities closer to home this World Physiotherapy Day – 8 September! 🤩 Growing up in the NT, physiotherapy student, Casey Bell has had a longstanding interest in healthcare and recently completed her placement at Alice Spring Hospital. “Being able to complete a placement at Alice Spring Hospital was such an amazing experience that allowed me to develop my knowledge and skills within a very unique healthcare setting. It also gave me a deeper understanding of what healthcare means for different people.” Many NT students looking to pursue a career in physiotherapy have had to go interstate to complete their studies. These opportunities are now closer to home, with Charles Darwin University recently introducing their own physiotherapy program! A combined Bachelor of Health Science and Master of Physiotherapy, the course offers unique community engagement and First Nations perspective, as well as rural and remote health, ensuring graduates are equipped with the knowledge to meet the needs of all people across northern Australia. Now back home in Alice Springs, Casey is passionate about bringing more awareness to the importance of culturally appropriate and accessible healthcare. “Returning to the NT after graduating is something that I am very excited about as I hope to continue making a positive impact on health outcomes.” More information about the physiotherapy program offered at CDU via the website ➡️ https://lnkd.in/gn2sWmeN

With the upcoming Allied Health Excellence Awards, we’re shining a light on some of our past winners! Nico took home the inaugural award for Excellence in Allied Health Assistance/Technical Services award in 2023, for his outstanding contributions supporting allied health professionals to provide exceptional services for client. Working as an allied health assistant over the last 2 years, Nico has supported a number of allied health disciplines, including occupational therapy, speech pathology and physiotherapy, assisting a range of clients across the NT to provide better health outcomes and improve their quality of life. A career in allied health has enabled new opportunities to work as part of a holistic team and provided Nico with support to achieve further professional development. “I always say to just do it, it is the most fulfilling part of my role making both my colleagues and clients happy” Nico is passionate about promoting the importance of allied health assistant and technical roles. For him, this award represents his hard work, dedication and service to supporting his team and assisting better client outcomes. Nominations for the 2024 Allied Health Excellence Awards are open until Sunday 8 September. Visit the website for more information ➡️ https://lnkd.in/gha5mgG6

Meet Rebecca… Rebecca is a nurse with specialist skills in palliative care and rehabilitation who works at Katherine Hospital, supporting patients across the Big Rivers region. “I am really passionate about improving access to palliative care for rural and remote patients – I think it’s so important that people who are approaching the end of their life receive the care they deserve, no matter where they live,” Rebecca said. Rebecca helps bring together a range of health providers in the region so they can work together to ensure palliative care patients don’t fall through the gaps, and that their care can be escalated if required. To achieve this, on a monthly basis, she meets with local GPs, aged care providers, Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations and the ambulance service.  Rebecca also works closely with physiotherapists and occupational therapists in the region, to carry out home assessments for palliative care patients. “These visits ensure that patients are given the equipment they need to remain at home, comfortably," Rebecca said. “When it comes to our rehab patients at the hospital, we work with our allied health services to make sure they are as functional as possible before returning home.” For more information about nursing careers in the NT, visit: https://lnkd.in/gXGniguR

We are excited to announce Leanne Liddle as a keynote speaker of 28th Australian & New Zealand Prevocational Medical Education Forum 2024. Improving Aboriginal health outcomes depends on recognising the complex relationship between the social determinants of health. Social determinants of health are economic, physical and social factors that can influence health outcomes. They can include access to employment, education, and housing, and justice. Leanne's expertise in Aboriginal justice offers forum attendees an opportunity to learn about one of these important social determinants of health. Leanne is the driving force behind the Northern Territory Aboriginal Justice Agreement, which, in partnership with Aboriginal people aims to reduce imprisonment rates, increase Aboriginal leadership, and improve justice outcomes for Aboriginal Territorians. Leanne was South Australia’s first Aboriginal policewoman. During her decade of service, she experienced racism and abuse that she fought and used to fuel her passion to make a difference in the justice arena. Leanne went on to complete a law degree and has since worked for the United Nations, and in several high-profile government roles. Leanne is committed to empowering Aboriginal Territorians with justice solutions that will work where others have failed. Leanne and other keynote speakers will tell inspiring stories of rising to the challenge to meet sustainability in medicine, whilst ensuring appropriate service delivery to meet the community’s health and cultural needs. Registrations are now open! Secure your ticket now. To register for the event at the Darwin Convention Centre on 11 – 14 November, please visit: https://lnkd.in/gt65Y8vR

Meet Deesha ... Deesha is one of many students to have recently spent time learning at The Royal Darwin Hospital (RDH) School. For over 40 years, The RDH Hospital School has been supporting children who present to hospital with a range of ailments, from broken bones to chronic illness. During her time in hospital, Deesha engaged in a variety of activities, including reading and playing educational board games. “My favourite subject has been art. I have also been playing scrabble with my teacher, Ruth,” Deesha said. Whilst admitted to RDH, children aged four to 17 years old are able to access the school, providing an opportunity for young patients to continue their education and re-engage with mainstream schooling. The Hospital School operates from Monday to Friday between the hours of 8:30am – 3:00pm and is closed during general school holidays. For more information about The Hospital School visit: https://lnkd.in/gmvJbNgi

Do you know an exceptional Allied Health industry member or team? Make sure they’re recognised! 🏆 Nominations for the 2024 NT Allied Health Excellence Awards are now open until Sunday 8 September. The awards celebrate the exemplary work of allied health professionals who make a positive impact to the health and wellbeing of Territorians every single day. Nominate now! ➡ https://lnkd.in/gH8ctfKt.