Future Priorities
Enhancing REACH – Strengthening Patient, Family and Carer escalation Pathways REACH is a program to support patients, carers and families to raise concerns with staff about worrying changes in a patient’s condition. REACH stands for: R E RECOGNISE You notice a worrying change ENGAGE Talk to the nurse or doctor A REACH call prompts an urgent clinical review of a deteriorating patient by a senior health worker. Where concerns about a patient’s condition are not resolved, an independent review can be activated by calling a unique REACH phone number at the hospital. REACH supports partnerships between patients, carers, families and health workers to make sure concerns about deterioration are heard and acted on. It works alongside existing processes and is available in all NSW public hospitals.
In August 2025, a proactive tool to recognise and respond to patient, families and carer concerns was implemented across the district in the Paediatric setting. Staff are encouraged to ask parents and carers, “ Are you worried they are getting worse? ” recognising the crucial role they play in early detection and timely escalation of care. These enhancements are part of the district’s ongoing commitment to patient safety and quality care, supporting clinicians in making timely, informed decisions and improving workflow efficiency across wards. More improvements to the program will be implemented in 2026.
ACT Ask for a clinical review if you’re still concerned CALL Call the hospital’s REACH number to escalate your concerns
C H A
HELP A senior health worker will respond
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