RNSH physiotherapy spinal pain triage team recognised for improving healthcare equity RNSH spinal pain triage physiotherapists Trish Schlotfeldt and Larissa Castle have been recognised at the Central Coast Local Health District’s Caring for the Coast Awards.
satisfaction with the model, which aligns with both state and national health and environmental goals. “This award is a reflection of what has been a truly remarkable collaboration and achievement,” said Peter Young, acting head of department, physiotherapy. “Trish, Larissa and the team are making a real difference for patients on the Central Coast.”
They won the Excellence in Improving Equity in Healthcare Award for their work with the Gosford Hospital physiotherapy team. The award celebrates initiatives that improve access to care and reduce disparities across the health system. The Gosford Spinal Pathway Satellite Clinic has allowed patients with back and neck pain to access a specialist physiotherapist triage assessment clinic locally, rather than travelling to Royal North Shore Hospital. “We’re honoured to receive this recognition,” said Trish, who initiated the project as part of the NSLHD Net Zero Lead program in collaboration with CCLHD. “Our goal has always been to make specialist care accessible to patients close to home, and this award reflects the hard work of our entire team in improving outcomes and equity for the community.”
Reducing unnecessary patient travel supports NSLHD’s target of achieving net zero emissions by 2035. Over 70 per cent of patients seen in the assessment clinic no longer required a surgical opinion, sparing them and their carers long commutes. This program has resulted in a 61 per cent reduction in transport- related greenhouse gas emissions. On average, the clinic saves patients 5 hours and 15 minutes per visit. Patients have indicated high
Left to right: Trish Schlotfeldt, Layla Nafari and Larissa Castle
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NSLHD NEWS | ISSUE 22| 28 NOVEMBER 2025
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