The release of an interim report from the review of workplace culture in the ACT’s public health services has been welcomed by the ACT Health Directorate, Canberra Health Services and Calvary ACT.
Director-General of the Health Directorate, Michael De’Ath (pictured) said the independent review had been important for the public health system and for the staff who worked in health services.
“The interim report is being taken very seriously,” Mr De’Ath said.
“All recommendations have been agreed to in principle, while noting this is an interim report, with the Government to formally respond to the final report and ACT Health to lead a Territory-wide response.
“The implementation of recommendations will be supported by the establishment of a new implementation steering group and team.”
He said the steering group would include the Director-General of Health and the Chief Executives of Canberra Health Services and Calvary ACT.
Recruitment of the implementation team, which will operate for three years, will begin shortly.
The Minister for Health and Wellbeing, Meegan Fitzharris, will also chair a high-level cultural review committee tasked with overseeing the implementation process and ensuring that momentum in delivering the recommendations is maintained.
Mr De’Ath said ACT Health was committed to improving workplace culture and staff engagement across public health services.
“The interim report provides the opportunity to effect real change within the working environments of our health services,” he said.
The Chief Executive of Canberra Health Services, Bernadette McDonald said it was clear from the interim report that while the organisation had made significant inroads to address culture issues, there was still much work to do.
“Ensuring staff feel valued, can express their views without fear or favour and can work together effectively is of the utmost importance for me,” Ms McDonald said.
Regional Chief Executive of Calvary ACT, Barbara Reid said her organisation would work closely with ACT Health to support the implementation of recommendations.
“The Calvary values of hospitality, healing, stewardship and respect must be central to everything we do. Our staff have the right to work in a respectful environment where they are valued and free from harm,” Ms Reid said.
Minister for Health and Wellbeing, Meegan Fitzharris said more than 2,000 people had been engaged in the review.
“The panel will now conduct a final round of consultation with key stakeholders before finalising the report in coming weeks,” Ms Fitzharris said.
The review’s 84-page interim report can be accessed at this PS News link.
