Message from the Chief Executive Deb Willcox
Northern Sydney Local Health District has commenced development of our next Strategic Plan 2022-2027. The strategic plan will guide the direction of our health services over the next five years and articulate how we will achieve our goals, leverage opportunities and add to our existing strengths. Central to the development of our next strategic plan, will be our commitment to the delivery of high-quality healthcare and dedication to ensuring our consumers and patients get the best possible care in the right, place at the right time. We will be hosting 12 virtual consultation sessions (via Zoom) for all staff and key stakeholders in May 2022. The consultation sessions will focus on six strategic themes that are aligned to the recently released NSW Health Future Health: Strategic Framework 2022-2032. I encourage those of you who would like to contribute to attend one of these sessions and help shape the future of our district and healthcare. I was so pleased to attend the launch of the Aboriginal Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy at Macquarie Hospital. The NSLHD Aboriginal Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2020-2025 supports and assists the district in delivering respectful and appropriate mental health drug and alcohol services. It reflects our commitment to closing the health gap between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people in NSW. Lastly, starting April 11, our district will begin its annual staff influenza vaccination program. Over the past two years, COVID-19
has caused disruptions to all of our lives, but thankfully it also meant cases of influenza remained low. However, as things return to the new normal, with no lockdowns, as well as open international and state borders – we must prepare for what could be a challenging winter period. Low levels of exposure to the virus, as well as low vaccine coverage may have led us to having lower levels of immunity. That is why, this year, it is more important than ever that everyone gets vaccinated against the flu. It is the most effective way to reduce the incidence and severity of the virus. To our staff, it is integral we protect ourselves, each other and our patients; the arrival of flu in conjunction with COVID-19 presents more pressure on all of you and understandably will cause apprehension. You continue to provide outstanding care and know what needs to be done to keep yourself, your colleagues and patients safe. All the executive teams are focused on supporting you so please know you are our priority. To our community, especially those of you who are older or may be more susceptible to influenza, please visit your GP or local pharmacy to receive your vaccine.
Deb Willcox Chief Executive Northern Sydney Local Health District
NSLHDNEWS | ISSUE 6 | 8 APRIL 2022
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