Local health service wins Premier’s award

GREAT Ocean Road Health has this month been named the Premier’s Small Health Service of the Year at the Victorian Public Healthcare Awards.

The health service was honoured with the award for its person-centric approach to patient care at its Lorne and Apollo Bay sites.

Great Ocean Road Health chief executive officer Sandy Chamberlin celebrated the achievement.

“I am delighted and very proud of our wonderful health service which provides great care across two campuses in Lorne and Apollo Bay,” she said.

“We try really hard to understand and meet our communities needs by taking a population-based approach to healthcare.

“Our staff truly care about our clients and are the reason why we provide great care.”

Now in its 18th year, the Victorian Public Healthcare Awards recognise health services, workers and volunteers for their dedication to the healthcare sector and the community.

The awards are judged by healthcare professionals working within the sector, including previous award winners and those with specific experience or expertise.

“Great Ocean Road Health won the Premier’s Small Health Service of the Year award for their efforts to get the community involved in looking after their own health and wellbeing,” a Department of Health spokesperson said.

By actively involving the community, this has allowed Great Ocean Road Health to provide a “one-stop shop” for healthcare, with a broad range of linked services on offer

including acute and urgent care, aged care, community services, virtual care and transport, when required.

“The health service treats its consumers like family and provides an integrated approach to their healthcare needs and wrap around care for the vulnerable,” the spokesperson said.

“Great Ocean Road Health also highlighted their commitment to inclusion, using linked services to ensure consumers can be either seen on site, transported or supported with virtual care.”

Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney said Great Ocean Road Health truly deserves the recognition, as do all the winners from this year’s awards.

“I’m especially pleased to see one of our own local service providers acknowledged for their work to keep our community healthy and happy,” she said.

“This achievement reflects the dedication and hard work of our healthcare professionals who tirelessly serve our community, building a healthier future for everyone.

“With record demand on Victoria’s healthcare system, it’s fantastic to see Great Ocean Road Health recognised for their innovative approach to meeting the needs of our community.”