Media Releases

1 February 2010

St John of God Health Care is expanding its international operations, with the acquisition of a 36-bed residential care facility for people with a physical disability in Wellington, New Zealand.

The service, to be known as St John of God Wellington, will be operated by the group's New Zealand division, St John of God Hauora Trust, which also operates St John of God Halswell, a 62-bed service in Christchurch for people with acquired brain injuries, physical and neurological disabilities; and St John of God Waipuna, a youth service in Christchurch.

The acquisition also represents an expansion of services related to intellectual and physical disability. Apart from the New Zealand disability services, the group operates St John of God Accord, a major Melbourne provider of support services for people with an intellectual disability.

St John of God Health Care's Group Chief Executive Officer, Dr Michael Stanford, said the Wellington facility, previously known as Maddison, employed over 40 staff and supported 28 residents.

"This acquisition, affective as of today, increases our New Zealand operations by about 50%. Apart from increasing our scale and hence our sustainability, it makes us one of the major physical disability services provider in New Zealand, giving us a platform for further growth in this important area of care," Dr Stanford said.

"We are also increasing our focus on disability in other areas of our organisation, with a newly created position of Project Manager Disability Strategy to build a strategy for delivering disability services and expanding services into new arenas. The position will also develop a Disability Action Plan, which will act as a guiding framework for the inclusion of people with a disability into our services and organisation."

St John of God Health Care employs over 8,800 people working in 14 hospitals, pathology services, community services and a range of Social Outreach and Advocacy services, which target poor health and disadvantage, in Australia, New Zealand and East Timor.

19 November 2009

An innovative new nursing project has been established by St John of God Health Care, through its Social Outreach and Advocacy Program, to develop nursing standards and practices in Timor Leste (East Timor).

The National Nursing Development Program will be implemented over the next five years, with a $7.5 million commitment, and aims to improve patient outcomes by placing skilled Australian and New Zealand nurses in Timor Leste, the local name of East Timor, to develop the knowledge, skills and standards of the Timorese nurses.

This new initiative follows the successful implementation by St John of God Health Care of the Pathology Development Program in Timor Leste, which has been operating since 2004. A subsequent invitation from the Timorese Ministry of Health was extended to the organisation to perform similar capacity building activities in the area of nursing. Assistance programs operated by St John of God Health Care in East Timor have been recognised by the Global Health Fund and the World Bank as amongst the most successful by a non-government agency since the country's independence.

Director of Nursing Services, Kate Birrell, performed an evaluation of nursing standards and practices in Timor Leste during 2008 and said: "The standard of nursing care underpins all aspects of patient care, especially in a country such as Timor Leste with limited overall medical resources, medication and biomedical equipment. There are currently few overarching nursing policies or procedures in place and the overall standard of care provided by the current nursing staff at all hospitals (including the Dili National Hospital where the program will be based) is at a basic level."

Newly appointed International Health Coordinator, Anthea Ramos, is facilitating the recruitment process to appoint a skilled Senior Nurse Manager to commence in February 2010, as well as experienced specialist registered nurses to implement the program.

"We are seeking nurses with expertise across a range of specialties, but most importantly nurses who are resilient, adaptable and have experience working in and managing a changing environment," Anthea said. "They will be acting as role models, and will need to demonstrate a willingness and enthusiasm to work alongside the Timorese and be a part of something that is life changing."

Working out of Dili hospital, nurses will be engaged on a minimum two-year placement. "We want to establish consistency within the program as well as ongoing support that is sustainable, rather than short secondments that do not allow the program to have the greatest impact," Anthea said.

Nurses involved in the program will mentor and guide Timorese nurses in the development and implementation of policies, procedures, systems and practices that will ultimately improve the overall standards of nursing within the country. Once the new practices have been embedded and shown to improve patient outcomes, they will be rolled out to the four district hospitals throughout Timor Leste.

20 August 2009

St John of God Health Care nurse Suzie Hooper has won the inaugural Catholic Health Australia Nurse of the Year Award for her work on an innovative cancer program.

The award honours an outstanding nurse or midwife for their commitment to serving patients with respect and dignity, while recognising their individuality.

As St John of God Health Care's Group Manager Clinical Programs, Suzie worked with a multidisciplinary team to develop an Outpatient Oncology Rehabilitation Program designed to enhance a patient's quality of life via individually tailored programs incorporating exercise, support and education.

The holistic program covers a variety of topics relevant to a patient's "survivorship" and regaining of a sense of physical and emotional well being. The program team includes a rehabilitation physician, psychologist, clinical nurse specialist, dietician, occupational therapist, physiotherapist, exercise physiologist and pastoral care practitioner.

St John of God Health Care's Group Director of Nursing Kate Birrell said Suzie ensured the program, which is being piloted at the group's Ballarat and Nepean Rehabilitation hospitals, was suitable for all cancer patients, regardless of their health status. She said the main focus was to improve a patient's emotional and functional quality of life, even for those with advanced cancer.

"The development and evaluation of this program provides Australians with a new model of best practice care for cancer patients that can be applied in public and private hospitals as well as community health services," Kate said.

Suzie said that a cancer diagnosis changes people's lives forever. "It sets people on a terrifying roller coaster ride of grand proportions, with incredible highs and lows. It takes them on a journey through the healthcare system and treatment regimes that don't always nurture or empower them. More than anything, they and their families need to be enabled to cope with the reality they face. I hope this program grows and develops to become part of standard care for cancer patients across Australia."

She said that while the patients trialling the program were still being monitored, early results indicate a decrease in anxiety and depression and an increase in physical fitness, which contribute to improving a patient's quality of life during a very challenging time in their life.

This work is part of Suzie's broader role, which also includes coordinating and teaching post graduate studies in rehabilitation nursing, and developing and advising on rehabilitation services.

St John of God Health Care is a leading not-for-profit Catholic health care group, employing 8,887 people working across 14 hospitals, a community hospice, pathology service, disability support service and a wide range of Social Outreach and Advocacy services in Australia, New Zealand and the wider Asia-Pacific region.

2 July 2009

St John of God Health Care's Social Outreach & Advocacy program has been presented with an Australian Business Award for Community Contribution. The award recognises organisations which implement policies or projects that positively impact on the community and generate outcomes that have a long term benefit.

St John of God Health Care is a leading provider of hospitals, pathology and community services throughout Australia and in Christchurch, New Zealand. Integral to St John of God Health Care as a Catholic health care group is the Social Outreach and Advocacy (SOA) Program, which works to establish and build projects helping people in need. The organisation aims to commit up to 2% of annual revenue to providing significant care and relief where there are gaps in service provision. 

The SOA program began with a modest budget of $1 million in 2002 dedicated to social justice health initiatives, centred on six areas of focus and activities pursued largely outside St John of God Health Care's traditional hospital network. Today, the program has grown to an annual commitment of more than $8 million funded from the resources of the organisation, leveraged with additional funding from State and Federal Governments and other external partners, to a total expenditure in 2008/09 of $40 million. Since the program's inception, more than $100 million has been dedicated to helping those in need.

The 2009 Australian Business Awards have been presented to 67 organisations selected from a field of 928 entrants across various industries throughout Australia. Within the category of Community Contribution, St John of God Health Care was one of only eight organisations to be awarded from a selection of 83 entries. The Awards celebrate organisations that demonstrate the core values of business excellence, product excellence, sustainability and commercial success in their respective industries.

"Through our Social Outreach and Advocacy activities we strive to follow our founders, the Sisters of St John of God, in their commitment to the creation of an inclusive community where the needs of the most vulnerable are met with compassion and generosity," Dr Michael Stanford, Group Chief Executive Officer, St John of God Health Care said.  "It is an honour to be recognised for these activities within the business arena."

A spokesperson for the Australian Business Awards said, "The 2009 Awards attracted a very high standard of entries from the Australian business community in times of great change. This year's winners displayed exceptional performance and leadership in their respective industries, and are role models for any organisation striving for business excellence."

Established in 2003, the Australian Business Awards is an independent organisation incorporated in Australia as a proprietary limited company and is a national, all-encompassing awards program. Entries are judged on specific criteria underpinned by the program's values of success, innovation and ethics.

27 May 2009

Botulinum Toxin at St John of God Nepean Rehabilitation
As recently seen on Melbourne's Channel Seven News, Botulinum Toxin can be used to treat spasticity in people with acquired brain injuries, traumatic brain injuries, multiple sclerosis or following stroke and spinal cord injury.

What is Spasticity?
Following central nervous system damage, muscles are often 'overactive' with limbs becoming stiffened, making it difficult to move them. This is seen clinically as an increased resistance to moving joints. This condition is known commonly as spasticity.

Spasticity can affect fingers, wrists, elbows, shoulders, hips, knees and feet.

How does Botulinum Toxin work?
Botulinum Toxin Type A, known in Australia by its trade names Dysport and Botox, is a neurotoxin that can reduce muscle spasticity by blocking nerve transmission to muscles and causing muscle paralysis. This can therefore make it easier to move the affected limbs.

What can Botulinum Toxin be used for?
Botulinum toxin is being used therapeutically to:

• improve walking patterns
• reduce pain associated with muscle spasticity
• improve upper limb function and
• to improve hand hygiene by allowing fingers to open up

How is Botulinum Toxin used at St John of God, Nepean Rehabilitation?
Following a comprehensive assessment by a Rehabilitation Physician, Botulinum Toxin can be injected directly into muscles using a muscle stimulator. Botulinum Toxin takes 10 days to 3 weeks to work and can last for up to 3-6 months.

What other treatments are involved with the rehabilitation of spasticity?
Following injection, a course of rehabilitation (which may involve  physiotherapy, hydrotherapy and occupational therapy) is undertaken to:

• stretch muscles which may involve splinting of affected limbs
• improve joint mobility
• improve muscle strength in 'underactive' muscles
• improve upper limb function and walking patterns and
• achieve individual goals specified by the patient

Botulinum toxin is expensive but the cost may be subsidised by Medicare for selected patients with upper limb spasticity resulting from stroke or cerebral palsy or by Insurance Companies such as the Transport Accident Commission or WorkSafe. For an assessment, please ask your General Practitioner for a referral to see a specialist Rehabilitation Physician at St John of God, Nepean Rehabilitation in Frankston.
- Prepared by Dr. Nathan Johns MBBS(Hons), FAFRM (RACP)

2 April 2009

Providing outstanding support for its predominantly female workforce has again earned St John of God Health Care an Employer of Choice for Women citation - one of only three health care organisations nationally to be recognised for seven or more consecutive years.

The prestigious annual citation is awarded by the Australian Government's Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Agency (EOWA) in recognition of policies and practices that support women and have a positive outcome for both women and the organisation.

St John of God Health Care's combination of a comprehensive equal opportunities strategy, flexible human resource initiatives, and a supportive work environment has proven to be highly effective: around 70% of its managers are female, and almost 40% of those work part-time, reflective of the organisation's flexible approach to its caregivers (as its employees are known).

Group Director Human Resources, Ian Oakley, said: "Our range of policies allows our female caregivers, who comprise well over 80% of the workforce, the opportunity to maintain and advance their careers when personal commitments limit their ability to work full-time, regular hours, or require breaks in employment."

Flexibility is also a key to attracting and keeping employees, particularly important in the health care sector, where skill shortages continue.

Ian explained that when caregivers of any gender ask for help in maintaining work-life balance, even at the recruitment stage, this is explored. "Employers who are committed to equal opportunities take a long-term view, as St John of God Health Care's growing track record of citations demonstrates," he said.

Recruitment and retention are high on St John of God Health Care's agenda; the organisation's far-sighted strategy has allowed it to grow to become an 8,700-employee-strong organisation across its international network of hospitals, outreach and diagnostic services in NSW, Victoria, WA, New Zealand and the wider Asia-Pacific region.

Following feedback from ongoing employee surveys, the organisation recently introduced a creative 'purchased parental leave' scheme - one of the first employers in Australia to do so - allowing caregivers to set aside part of their salary to buy extra parental leave. Another survey of caregivers aged over 45 years, showed that 81% were satisfied with their work-life balance and 59% planned to work with St John of God Health Care until they retired. Caregivers under 45 are currently being surveyed to gauge their work-life balance needs.

"With such a large workforce, you can be sure there are many variations on a theme, but we are very successful at striking a balance that accommodates the needs of all caregivers. People who join St John of God Health Care tend to stick around and we intend to keep it that way with more surveys and initiatives in the pipeline," Ian said.

The organisation has a history of 'listening' to its caregivers and providing attractive and flexible conditions, including paid parental leave, part-time work, flexible rostering, compressed time, deferred salary and purchased annual leave schemes. St John of God Health Care also has a comprehensive framework to protect against harassment or discrimination. Policies include equal employment opportunities, bullying and harassment, and guidelines to assist workplaces to support mothers who continue to breastfeed while making the transition back to work.

14 August 2008

WA Health Minister Jim McGinty today toured St John of God Pathology's new cancer diagnostic laboratory, within the Bendat Family Comprehensive Cancer Centre, to view the latest features in lab design and see how integrating a research facility with pathology services improves patient care.

St John of God Pathology's Chief Executive Officer, Mr Graham Armstrong ,said other hospitals were already showing an interest in using the design as a blue print for similar facilities.

The new pathology facility integrates:

• A routine diagnostic pathology laboratory that provides a comprehensive range of pathology tests for the Bendat Family Comprehensive Cancer Centre and St John of God Hospital, Subiaco, where the cancer centre is located.
• A Histopathology and Cytology laboratory.  Histopathology is the branch of pathology concerned with making diagnoses of diseases and conditions through the examination of microscopic changes in the tissues from the body whilst cytology is the microscopic and scientific study of cells, especially for the detection of cancer and its precursors.
• A research laboratory where research is conducted as part of a routine clinical practice. This is the first time that a private practice in WA has integrated research into its services. The laboratory will be engaged in translational cancer research, bringing discoveries in molecular biology to the bedside in the management of patients.

"This is the first time these three functions have been combined together in one geographical location so they can work closely together," Mr Armstrong said.

Prof Vince Caruso, Director of Histopathology and Cancer Services at the new laboratory, said the study of pathological samples not only helped researchers increase their understanding of cancer but could also help doctors determine the type of treatment a patient was given.

Some of the research projects already underway include identifying predictors of response to chemotherapy for women with advanced breast cancer and prognostic factors for early stage bowel cancer.

Dr Nik Zeps, manager of the research laboratory, said this and other research at the new laboratory are being conducted in collaboration with medical specialists at St John of God Hospital, Subiaco (where the Bendat Family Comprehensive Cancer Centre is located) and individuals and groups who have additional skills such a A/Prof Barry Iacopetta in the School of Surgery at The University of Western Australia and with other researchers at the UWA, WA public hospitals and the WA Institute for Medical Research.

St John of God Pathology has 24 laboratories and 93 collection centres in the metropolitan and regional areas of Western Australia and Victoria.

24 July 2008

St John of God Hospital, Richmond in New South Wales will be hosting its annual Vietnam Veterans Day to remember the 60,000 Australians deployed to Vietnam and those who returned seeking justice and sanctuary.

The annual ceremony is expected to be attended by approximately 300 people - veterans and their families, caregivers at St John of God Health Care and various members from the local community.

St John of God Health Care's Executive Director of NSW Services, Mr Ramon del Carmen, said that while Vietnam Veterans Day was first celebrated by St John of God Hospital at Richmond in the early 1990s, the rationale for the day still rings true.

"The ceremony was originally proposed by Brother Basil, a member of the treating team, who wanted to provide the veterans with recognition of their service to our country and bring the message of justice and sanctuary to the Xavier Unit patients as well as all Vietnam veterans," he added.

Over the past 20 years, thousands of returned soldiers have found refuge, understanding and help at St John of God Hospital.

"We are proud to be one of the very first facilities in Australia to recognise the war's impact on the psychological health of Vietnam veterans and to provide diagnosis and support for post traumatic stress disorder," Mr del Carmen said.

While it is now quite common for people to talk about the psychological trauma that soldiers face and the impact it can have, in the 1960s and 70s soldiers were just expected to get on with life.

"At St John of God Health Care we aim to provide effective treatment in an environment of hospitality, as well as compassion and respect for the returned soldier," he said.

"There is a very special bond between the Xavier Unit patients and caregivers and today is also very much about recognising the important role of our caregivers in helping Vietnam veterans."

The Vietnam Veterans Day ceremony will take place at 12 noon on Thursday 7 August at the Chapel, St John of God Hospital, 177 Grose Vale Road, Richmond. The date is chosen to commemorate the Battle of Long Tan in 1966.

19 May 2008

Awarded one of the country's highest nursing honours, "Nurse of the Year", at the recent Hesta Australian Nursing Awards, St John of God Hospital Subiaco Clinical Nurse Consultant, Sam Gibson said she feels privileged to work in such a rewarding job.

With a career spanning more than 19 years, Sam Gibson was nominated for her delivery of outstanding patient care, her treatment and support of patients and their families, and her ability to coach and support other caregivers in the complex area of cancer services.

Nominated alongside hundreds of nurses from all over Australia, Sam won the coveted national award and acknowledged that it was the work of her team at the Bendat Family Comprehensive Cancer Centre, at the hospital, that helped her achieve the award as they work together for patients and their families.

According to Sam, she has never lost her enthusiasm to make a difference to people diagnosed with cancer.

'"My job is so worthwhile. I have the amazing and important role of assisting people during times of ill health, adversity and turmoil to navigate the journey through cancer treatment and recovery," she said.

The hospital's Director of Nursing Services, Ms Chris Hanna, said it was wonderful to have one of the hospital's dedicated nurses recognised in this way. She said to hear Sam so modestly accept her award, acknowledging the work of her Cancer Services' team, further displayed the focus and commitment of an exceptional nurse.

"We are so pleased and excited that someone so deserving has received this award. Sam is constantly progressing her career in cancer care while remaining focused on the patients and families who benefit from her skills and support," Ms Hanna said.

Capping off a trifecta of nursing awards - Subiaco's midwife Julie Scott was recently named the Johnson and Johnson Midwife of the Year (WA) and Jessie Bosenberg received one of the highest honours when she won Graduate Registered Nurse of the Year at the Nurses and Midwives Board of WA Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Awards - this award reinforces that Subiaco is a rewarding place to work.

"The recent award wins, highlight and recognise that the hospital is not only a rewarding place to work but that our caregivers live out the Values of our organisation - Hospitality, Compassion, Respect, Justice and Excellence - in their ongoing daily work, and for that we say thank you," Ms Hanna said.

The prestigious event, held at Crown Palladium in Melbourne, was attended by health care professionals from all over Australia. 

23 April 2008

Mr Graham Armstrong has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of St John of God Pathology.

Mr Armstrong was most recently the State Manager of QML Pathology in Queensland, part of Symbion Health Pty Ltd.  He has also worked as State manager of Western Diagnostic Pathology in Perth and in senior roles for Gribbles Pathology in India and South Australia.

His qualifications include a Master of Business Administration from Adelaide University and a Master of Applied Sciences (Medical Laboratory Science) from Charles Sturt University.

Mr Armstrong also has Certificates of Technology from the Australian Society of Cytology and the International Academy of Cytology, of which he became a certificate member in 1982.

Mr Armstrong will be based in St John of God Health Care's South Melbourne office.

He succeeds Mr Kevin Taylor who has been appointed Group Director Corporate Services of St John of God Health Care and is based in the group's West Perth office.

St John of God Pathology has 24 laboratories and 92 collection centres in metropolitan and regional centres in Victoria and Western Australia.

St John of God Health Care employs more than 8,000 caregivers across 14 hospitals, a community hospice, disability support service, major pathology business and outreach services across Western Australia, Victoria, New South Wales and New Zealand.

21 April 2008

Seven medical students enrolled in Deakin University's Medical School for rural and regional practice will commence their hospital-based training today at St John of God Hospital, Geelong.

They are among 120 students to participate in Victoria's first ever training program for rural and regional medicine at Deakin University. They also are the first medical students ever to be hosted by the Geelong hospital.

St John of God Hospital, Geelong will host a total of 37 medical students throughout the course of the year.

Prof Con Michael, Group Director Medical Services for St John of God Health Care, said:
"the placement of medical students at St John of God Hospital, Geelong benefited patients, the community and the hospital."

"Deakin Universtiy is training a cohort of new doctors who are skilled and motivated to pursue a career in rural and regional areas, either as specialists or general practitioners," Prof Michael said.

"This will be a long-term benefit to the community and will enhance the hospital's strategies to attract doctors to rural areas. We hope that medical students who train at St John of God Hospitals will want to work with St John of God Health Care when they graduate and complete their training."

"Hospitals must have high standards of clinical care in order to provide teaching opportunities for medical students and to be considered as partners with university medical schools. Involvement such as this only assists in lifting the standard of care even further."

The Deakin University course gives special attention to preventing and managing chronic diseases, working in teams and developing procedural skills which are so important in areas away from the main hospital centres.

Students spend the first two years of the program studying in a purpose-built, state of the art building at Waurn Ponds.  The last two years of the course are completed in a range of hospitals, general practices and healthcare facilities attached to Deakin's Clinical School in Geelong, Warrnambool, Ballarat and Box Hill.

Deakin University's School of Medicine plans to increase its intake of medical students from 120 this year to 180 students per year from 2013.

St John of God Health Care employs more than 8,000 caregivers across 14 hospitals, a community hospice, disability support service, major pathology business and outreach services across Western Australia, Victoria, New South Wales and New Zealand.

4 March 2008

St John of God Health Care has been named an Employer of Choice for Women for the seventh consecutive year in recognition of policies and initiatives supporting its predominantly female work force.

The Employer of Choice for Women citation is awarded annually by the Australian Government's Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Agency (EOWA).

St John of God Health Care, an international health care group with hospitals, outreach and diagnostic services in NSW, WA, and Victoria, and in Christchurch, New Zealand, and the Asia-Pacific region, employs nearly 8,000 caregivers (as it describes its staff). Of its workforce, 85% are female; 62% work part time; and 70% of managers are female, many of whom work part time.

Group Director Human Resources, Ian Oakley, said it was imperative to provide policies and initiatives to support a predominantly female workforce, particularly in the context of national and global shortages of nurses, midwives and other health care professionals. "The EOWA citation provides us with significant positioning in a competitive marketplace and assists us to attract the best possible employees and importantly, retain them," Ian said.

This year, EOWA set several new criteria, including that organisations achieve a pay equity gap of less than 17%, which is the ABS recorded Australia-wide gap. This means that currently female full time adult ordinary earnings average 83% of their male counterparts.

St John of God Health Care's pay equity gap is 10% over all caregivers or 6% if hospital management and doctors/medical officers are excluded.

Ian said a recent initiative helping women was a group wide policy, approved in late 2007, to provide all caregivers with flexible working options, including job sharing, part time work, purchased leave, deferred salary, compressed time, remote access and phased retirement. "This recognises the benefit to both us and our caregivers of strategies enabling people to manage and balance their professional and personal responsibilities." Ian said.

In October 2007, St John of God Health Care engaged Ernst and Young to conduct a Work Life Balance Survey of caregivers aged 45 +, the group's largest demographic. The findings are informing workplace planning and policies to ensure a sustainable workforce into the future.

"We aim to provide working environments and flexible working options to meet the work life balance needs of our caregivers, including their personal carer responsibilities and the transition through their later stages of working life in preparation for retirement," Ian said. The survey showed that 81% of all caregivers aged 45 plus were satisfied or had no issues about their current work life balance; and 59% of caregivers aged 45 plus planned to work with St John of God Health Care until they retired.

Ian says the group would not rest on its laurels and would continue to research and implement policies and initiatives in response to societal changes and the changing needs of its workforce.

Employer of Choice for Women - Examples of women benefiting

1/ Louise Bailey, graduate Registered Nurse, St John of God Hospital, Subiaco - Perth, Western Australia

Louise, who is doing the hospital's graduate program, works 3 days a week on the hospital's vascular ward. Previously, graduate nurses on the graduate program had to work a minimum of 5 days per week but it has now been lowered to a minimum of 3.
 
Louise is the primary carer of her 3 children and said that from her initial interview at St John of God Hospital, Subiaco, her manager made it clear the hospital would be willing to help and support her in working 3 days a week, with flexible hours, so that she could care for her children and meet other non-work responsibilities.

 "With three children and a house to run it was wonderful to have the flexibility to enable me to maintain my roles as both a nurse and mother," Louise said.

2/ Odette Buzza, Registered Nurse, St John of God Hospital, Subiaco - Perth, Western Australia

Odette works on Ward 51, an orthopaedic ward, doing 'twilight' shifts - a 4.30pm - 10.30pm shift, which was introduced by the Nurse Manager. It means Odette can do school runs and her children are not left for too long in the evenings with babysitters before her husband comes home. She said it also works well on the ward because there is an extra person on the ward during handover, dinner break and night time checks.
 
"The late start minimises the children's time spent with babysitters and enables me to have dinner with them. I am also able to spend time with my husband instead of passing each other on the way to work which can often be the case. The shifts also provide extra support on the ward covering the crossover of shifts," Odette said.  

2/ Alex McMillan, Acting Group Clinical Risk Coordinator, St John of God Health Care - Perth, Western Australia

Alex is currently seconded from St John of God Hospital, Bunbury, to replace her predecessor in the role, who is on a period of extended leave.  Alex lives in Harvey, 140km south west of Perth, and St John of God Health Care has set up a working from home arrangement with Alex to allow her to stay at home 3 days a week and work 2 days a week at the group's Head Office in Perth.  This is a more suitable arrangement for Alex and has enabled her to access a developmental opportunity and gather more skills to assist her career progression.

4 March 2008

A comprehensive feasibility study conducted by St John of God Health Care has concluded that in its view opening a private hospital in Kalgoorlie was currently not feasible, primarily because of national and global shortages in doctors and nurses.

The Group Chief Executive Officer of St John of God Health Care, Dr Michael Stanford, today said he regretted having to deliver the decision as he understood the community's desire for increased access to health services, including private facilities.

"Last year, St John of God Health Care was asked by the Mayor of Kalgoorlie and representatives of the Goldfields Esperance Development Commission to consider opening a private hospital in Kalgoorlie.  We said we would need to conduct a thorough feasibility analysis before making a commitment," Dr Stanford said.

"Our analysis indicated a second hospital in Kalgoorlie would not at this time be able to attract sufficient numbers of doctors and nurses to sustain its operation.

"Through our presence in rural Australia we have a good understanding of the challenges of and barriers to providing private health services in the country. Recruitment and retention of medical and nursing staff is one of the most difficult issues, particularly at a time when there is a national and global shortage.

"Additionally, Australia is faced with a shortage in health professionals prepared to live and work in the country."

Dr Stanford said he had notified the Mayor of Kalgoorlie and the Goldfields Esperance Development Commission of the results of St John of God Health Care's feasibility analysis.

"We are aware that the Department of Health is working hard to attract visiting specialists to Kalgoorlie.  We support the Department, the Council and the Goldfields Esperance Development Commission in these endeavours.  In particular we would encourage the Goldfields Esperance Development Commission and  the community to consider investing in a specialist centre to attract specialist staff."

Dr Stanford said that St John of God Health Care would revisit the feasibility of establishing a sustainable private hospital in Kalgoorlie when barriers  such as medical workforce shortages were removed or overcome in the future.

17 December 2007

Commencing in January 2008, Mr Mark Bahen will join the health care group upon the exit of Mr Peter Patrikeos, who has served on the Board for more than ten years. Mr Patrikeos, former partner of law firm Freehills, was Deputy Chairman for the last seven years of his service.

"I'd like to thank Peter for his years of service to the Governing Board and all that he has contributed to St John of God Health Care and the organisation's development," St John of God Health Care Group Chief Executive Officer, Dr Michael Stanford said.

"We are also delighted that someone of Mr Bahen's calibre and experience is able to contribute his expertise to our Governing Board," Dr Stanford said.

Mr Bahen has been a partner of Clayton Utz since 1982 and practices in the areas of corporate and commercial law. He heads up the Health Services division and the Agribusiness division of the Clayton Utz Perth office and has been providing legal services to St John of God Health Care for more than 10 years. 

Mr Bahen has served as the Chairman of Clayton Utz Perth office as well as Chairman of Western Australian Meat Marketing Corporation and was appointed by the State Government to manage its restructure to a corporatised entity, on which he served as a Director. He has also served as the Chairman of Wescorp Holdings Ltd.

He has a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Western Australia and is a Member of the Law Society of Western Australia, the Law Council of Australia and the Taxation Institute of Australia.

27 November 2007

St John of God Health Care has appointed Anne Russell-Brown to the role of Group Director Social Outreach & Advocacy, to further develop and lead the group's expanding outreach services and activities.

Anne Russell-Brown, who has extensive experience in the social and community sectors, was appointed to the role following a comprehensive national recruitment search. The role will assist and guide St John of God Health Care in furthering its social justice agenda by overseeing the implementation of group-wide strategies and providing leadership in its Social Outreach & Advocacy program.

St John of God Health Care commits a significant proportion of revenue to supporting its Social Outreach & Advocacy program, extending its mission beyond the walls of its hospitals and diagnostic services. St John of God Health Care has developed group-wide strategies, services and advocacy initiatives in target areas of need - in response to clear evidence of ill health and disadvantage. These areas include Aboriginal health, alcohol and other drugs, mental health, palliative care, international health and rural health.

"The extension of the role to full time reflects the growth of the Social Outreach & Advocacy program within the organisation and the emphasis we place on its continued expansion and success," said St John of God Health Care's Group Director Mission, Ms Jennifer Stratton. "Anne brings a wealth of experience, skills and knowledge to this position and we look forward to her contribution as we continue to grow our commitment in this area."

Anne commenced her career as a secondary school teacher before joining the State Government as an Education Officer, following which she joined Mission Australia as their State Manager in order to realise her passion to work for the benefit of the most vulnerable young people in our community. After 12 years at Mission Australia, Anne was then appointed as Alcoa's National Community Partnerships and Sponsorships Manager.

Anne's significant career highlights include receiving the WA Telstra Business Woman of the Year Award and the Hudson Community and Government Award for service to the community in 2004. She is currently Chairperson of the Community Advisory Council (VOICE) and from 2002 - 2005 was Vice President of the West Australian Council of Social Services.

Based at St John of God Health Care's head office in West Perth, Anne will commence her role as Group Director Social Outreach & Advocacy in early January 2008.

15 November 2007

The $14.5m redevelopment and expansion of St John of God Hospital, Berwick will be officially opened tomorrow at a ceremony attended by local and interstate dignitaries.

St John of God Hospital, Berwick has been an integral part of the Berwick and surrounding community since it started life in 1939 as the Berwick Bush Nursing Hospital.

The $14.5 million redevelopment has given the hospital new and updated facilities, including two new operating theatres to complement the existing two theatres, 30 additional inpatient beds, a new day procedure unit with patient lounge, new reception and admission areas and a Chapel.

The hospital's Chief Executive Officer, Mr Tony Hollamby, said the redevelopment ensures that the people of the City of Casey can access a wide range of high quality private health care services now and into the future.

"The redevelopment represents a significant investment in our community, which resides in one of Melbourne's fastest growing suburban corridors. Updating and expanding the facilities and services we can offer at the hospital means local people do not have to leave their community to access health care services," Mr Hollamby said. "People can be treated in their local community by doctors, nurses and other caregivers, who are predominantly also members of their community. The new facilities are also enabling us to attract more specialist doctors to Berwick."

Last financial year, the hospital treated 1,792 inpatients and 5,841 day patients. It also welcomed a record 436 babies. "Given the growth projections for the local area population, demand will only continue to increase for local, accessible high quality health services, which may entail further redevelopments and expansions in the future," he said.

The redevelopment has given the hospital a contemporary new façade featuring dark brick veneer and recycled Blackbutt timber panels - a design inspired by the hospital's leafy location near Berwick's commercial centre. The design aimed to recreate in a modern manner the hospital's origins as a bush nursing hospital. Internally and externally, the building incorporates a range of natural materials and finishes, and all windows were designed to bring natural light into the hospital while maintaining privacy and shading from the sun.

The redevelopment will be officially opened by Sr Isobel Moran, a Trustee of St John of God Health Care and Province Leader of the Sisters of St John of God, who founded St John of God Health Care in 1895. The hospital buildings will also be blessed by the Most Reverend Jeremiah Coffey, the Bishop of Sale, whose diocese the hospital is in.

15 November 2007

St John of God Health Care's new purpose built $2.9m warehouse and office complex was officially opened today by St John of God Health Care's Group Chief Executive Officer and the Bishop of Ballarat.

Group Chief Executive Officer, Dr Michael Stanford, said it was fitting that the new complex was in Ballarat given that St John of God Hospital, Ballarat had been a vital part of the local community since 1915 and was the first hospital established by the group in Victoria.

"Our growth since then, and particularly over the last four years, has been significant and eventually made it necessary to find or build a warehouse-office complex to house support services for all our Victorian operations," Dr Stanford said.

"Our long association with and support from the Ballarat community, along with the availability of land, services and infrastructure, made Ballarat an ideal choice."

Dr Stanford said the building was also necessary because of increasing pressures on space to house these support services within the hospital, which is currently undergoing a $57 million redevelopment and expansion, reinforcing its long-standing position as Victoria's largest regional private hospital.

The 1500 square metre building, just 15 minutes drive from the hospital, will house 30 caregivers working in areas such as pay roll, information technology, accounts payable and supply. It was built by local Ballarat builder Resicare, which started construction in January this year.

Dr Stanford said enhanced working conditions, improvements in processes and a stronger, more cohesive team spirit were all benefits stemming from the purpose built facility. "Each of the caregiver groups involved were consulted in the early planning and design phases so are very excited to have now moved into a brand new facility that they helped create," he said.

Up until four years ago, St John of God Health Care operated only three hospitals in Victoria - St John of God Hospital, Warrnambool; St John of God Hospital, Geelong and St John of God Hospital, Ballarat. Since then, it has acquired two more acute hospitals - St John of God Hospital, Bendigo and St John of God Hospital, Berwick - a specialist rehabilitation hospital in Frankston, St John of God Nepean Rehabilitation Hospital; a psychiatric and drug and alcohol services hospital, St John of God Pinelodge Clinic in Dandenong; and a major Melbourne disability support service recently renamed St John of God Accord. The group also acquired PathCare Consulting Pathologists in Geelong, expanding its pathology business which operates across Victoria.

Wednesday, 10 October 2007
 
Major Melbourne disability support service St John of God Services Victoria is being renamed St John of God Accord to better reflect the nature of the support it provides clients.

The service, established in 1953, is a major provider of day, accommodation, respite, employment and outreach services supporting over 500 people with disabilities from 38 locations across metropolitan Melbourne. It supports clients with accommodation, lifestyle and occupational choices reflecting their individual needs and aspirations.

The Chief Executive Officer of St John of God Accord, Ms Liz Bishop, said the new name, St John of God Accord, reflected the way the service and its clients work together in a supportive, cooperative fashion. "The word accord means harmony and agreement, which is at the heart of the relationships we form with our clients as they choose the types of services and support they need and want to access," Ms Bishop said.

"The word is also suggestive of community and as a society we have witnessed the move from insitutionalised care to community integration and inclusion. Together with our clients we are working to facilitate a supportive, accepting community enabling people with a disability to fully participate within their community, rather than in isolation of it."

Ms Bishop said the new name was also in alignment with the principles of the new Disability Act 2006, which came into operation on 1 July 2007. The Act focuses on individuals and their place in the community, recognising that people with a disability have the right to enjoy the same civil, cultural, economic, political and social opportunities as all other members of the community.

On 2 July 2007, St John of God Services, as it was previously known, merged with St John of God Health Care, Australia's largest Catholic not for profit private health care group, which operates hospitals, pathology and outreach services in Victoria, New South Wales and Western Australia as well as in Christchurch, New Zealand.

The Group Chief Executive Officer of St John of God Health Care, Dr Michael Stanford, said that apart from better reflecting the highly regarded services that St John of God Accord provides, the new name coincided with the start of a new chapter for the service.

"As a result of the merger, St John of God Accord is now part of the St John of God Health Care group, which is committed to expanding and developing services to ensure they remain at the forefront of service quality and continue to meet community needs. Our common goals and shared resolve to work together to bring unity and strength to all services will bring current and future benefits to the clients and communities we serve," he said.

9 October 2007

St John of God Health Care has appointed Kevin Taylor into the new role of Group Director Corporate Services, which was created because of the group's expansion.

Kevin Taylor, who has been St John of God Pathology's Chief Executive Officer since 2000, was appointed to the role after a national recruitment search. The role, one of St John of God Health Care's most senior, will be responsible for most group-wide functions including Human Resources, Information Services, Supply, Legal Services and Marketing and Public Relations, as well as providing management support and leadership for major capital redevelopments.

St John of God Health Care's Group Chief Executive Officer, Dr Michael Stanford, said the role had become necessary because of the group's growth over the past four years and more particularly since July 2007, when it assumed operation for two psychiatric hospitals in New South Wales, a disability support service in Victoria, and a hospital and a youth and community service in Christchurch, New Zealand.

St John of God Health Care now employs 8,000 caregivers working across 14 hospitals, a community hospice, disability support service, major pathology business and outreach services across Western Australian, Victoria, New South Wales and New Zealand.

"Kevin has provided outstanding leadership and business acumen during his time as Chief Executive Officer of our pathology division, overseeing its development into Australia's fourth largest pathology provider with revenue of $90 million in 2006/07, 1,000 caregivers and 1.6 million pathology episodes per year," Dr Stanford said.

"We are now looking forward to Kevin's contribution to the wider group as we continue to grow and develop to meet community need across a wide range of hospital, diagnostic and outreach services."

Kevin, whose academic qualifications are in science and management, is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. He started his association with St John of God Health Care in 1979 as a Biochemist at St John of God Hospital, Subiaco, before gaining experience elsewhere and then rejoining St John of God Pathology in 1992.

Kevin will remain Chief Executive Officer of St John of God Pathology until his successor is appointed, which is expected within the next three months. Dr Stanford said Kevin would remain Executive Sponsor for the group's East Timor social outreach project which was recently broadened from its pathology base to include primary health care and nursing education.

"It was Kevin's passion for East Timor and its people that provided the impetus for us to start what has become a very successful project assisting the East Timorese government build sustainable pathology services. This project's success and now expansion into other areas of health care assistance is indicative of Kevin's commitment to using our knowledge and resources to improve health outcomes for the people of East Timor, one of our nearest neighbours," Dr Stanford said.

18 July 2007

The Federal Minister for Health and Ageing, Mr Tony Abbott, today officially opened the Bendat Family Comprehensive Cancer Centre, situated at St John of God Hospital Subiaco, declaring it a centre of excellence in providing coordinated, comprehensive cancer care - a first of its kind for the private sector in Australia.

The key difference the Bendat Family Comprehensive Cancer Centre offers over existing cancer centres is in its holistic integrated approach to cancer treatment in one facility. Traditionally patients visit different locations for imaging, diagnosis, pathology, endoscopy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgery.

The Bendat Family Comprehensive Cancer Centre has brought together all the elements involved in cancer care and combined them, on one campus, with some of the best clinicians from a full range of disciplines associated with cancer treatment.

The Chief Executive Officer of St John of God Hospital, Subiaco, Dr Shane Kelly, said the new Centre makes Western Australia a national leader in providing comprehensive cancer programs and will ensure Western Australians have access to the very best cancer treatment.

"A comprehensive private sector option for patients with cancer will ease pressure on the public system and provide greater choice for patients needing the full range of diagnostic and therapeutic services," Dr Kelly said.

"The Centre has had wide support from key stakeholders since its early proposal stage.  This Centre will very much complement existing cancer services in WA and with expert dedicated staff, it will help coordinate care for those patients whose therapeutic journey can otherwise be extremely difficult."

An important component of the Bendat Family Comprehensive Cancer Centre will be the complementary therapy services on offer such as massage, hypnotherapy, music therapy, and other alternate therapy options.

"The Centre will be committed to ongoing research of cancer treatment and outcomes - ensuring our patients are receiving the most advanced, contemporary treatment as well as contributing to the wider body of knowledge in relation to cancer," Dr Kelly said.

Integral to the success of the Bendat Family Comprehensive Cancer Centre is the provision of coordinated care across all areas - multi disciplinary teams have or will be established to ensure optimal standards of clinical care are achieved.

Since opening to the public in April 2007, the oncology ward has already had an average 80% occupancy.

St John of God Hospital, Subiaco is proud to have one of the leading centres for cancer treatment on its campus. The state of the art facilities consolidate, expand and enhance the existing cancer services provided by the hospital.

"The Centre would not have been possible without the support of many companies and individuals. We have been overwhelmed by the generosity of West Australians," Dr Kelly said.

Cancer remains the leading cause of death in Australia and accounts for a quarter of all deaths in WA. A third of all men and a quarter of all women will be affected by cancer before the age of 75.

2 July 2007

Services merge under operation of St John of God Health Care

The Australian health services of St John of God Health Care and the health and disability services operated by the Hospitaller Order of St John of God in Australia and New Zealand have merged.

St John of God Health Care, Australia's largest Catholic not for profit private health care group, assumed operational responsibility for all services on 1 July 2007.

St John of God Health Care now employs 8,000 people, working across 14 hospitals (with approximately 2,000 beds), a community hospice, pathology services and a wide range of social outreach activities in Australia, New Zealand, and the wider Asia-Pacific region.

The services in New South Wales, Victoria and New Zealand that have joined St John of God Health Care are:

• St John of God Health Services in Sydney, comprising two private psychiatric hospitals - at  Burwood and Richmond - and Casa Venegas, a Sydney based outreach service for homeless people with mental health problems.
• St John of God Services Victoria, a major disability service providing day, accommodation, respite, employment and outreach services supporting over 500 people with disabilities from 38 locations across metropolitan Melbourne.
• St John of God Health & Disabilities Services Trust, in Christchurch, New Zealand - which has 51 hospital beds and 10 community beds and provides residential and transitional care services for people under the age of 65 with acquired brain injuries and physical and neurological disabilities.
• St John of God Waipuna Youth & Community Services Trust, also in Christchurch, which is a social service agency providing young people (aged 14-25), and parents and mums under 25, and their families with support and opportunities.

St John of God Health Care's Group Chief Executive Officer, Dr Michael Stanford, said there would be no change to staffing and management at each of the services because of the merger. "We are honoured to welcome these significant services, which are highly regarded, into the St John of God Health Care group," he said.

"In terms of these services it will be business as usual, with the important addition that we are committed to expanding and developing services to ensure they remain at the forefront of service quality and continue to meet community health care needs.

"The merger is consistent with our broader strategy of supporting the Catholic sector to remain vital and vibrant, as well as growing our psychiatric services and social outreach activities. It is an inspiring example of Catholic health sector groups collaborating to ensure the sustainability of much needed and valued services in the interests of the community," Dr Stanford said.

"We believe that our common goals and our commitment to working together to bring unity and strength to all services will bring current and future benefits to the patients, clients and communities we serve throughout Australia, New Zealand and our broader region."

29 May 2007

Jasminka Vuckovic-Kosanovic has been appointed in the newly created role of Coordinator,
Alcohol & Other Drugs for St John of God Health Care (SJGHC). Jasminka, who commenced in the
role in late April 2007, was formerly Manager of Case Management Services of the Alcohol Related
Brain Impairment Assessment Services (arbias).

Jasminka has over 17 years experience working on issues relating to substance abuse, with many
of these in clinical practice within community settings including residential detoxification and
rehabilitation services and homeless crisis accommodation.

With a Bachelor in Social Work and a Postgraduate Certificate in Alcohol & Other Drugs, Jasminka
is currently completing a Master in International Health. She has presented at many conferences on
a national and international level and is also an active member of the Australian Association of
Social Workers.

St John of God Health Care already provides significant services in the drug and alcohol sector
operating under its Social Outreach & Advocacy program in Western Australia. In her new role,
Jasminka will be responsible for implementing SJGHC’s recently completed alcohol & other drugs
strategy, provide support and advice to existing and developing drug and alcohol services at
SJGHC and collaborate with local partners and government.

"I look forward to promoting and facilitating the strategy on a national level", said Jasminka. "While
the strategy focuses on aligning internal service relationships, it also continues to recognise
external partnerships as a way of reducing substance related harm for individuals and communities
in accordance with the principals outlined in the Australian National Alcohol and Drug Policy."

Jasminka will be based in SJGHC’s Melbourne office.

30 April 2007

St John of God Health Care and Western Medical Imaging (WMI) have signed an agreement in relation to the sale of St John of God Health Care's general imaging business and WMI's angiography business, both operating out of St John of God Hospital, Ballarat.

The sale of St John of God Health Care's general imaging service to a dedicated imaging service provider will allow Western Medical Imaging the scope to develop the business to ensure a consummate radiology service for the Ballarat community.

Additionally, St John of God Health Care's purchase of Western Medical Imaging's angiography business will see the service being relocated, in July 2007, to a new state of the art angiography suite that will be established as part of St John of God Hospital, Ballarat's $57m redevelopment.

Transfer of ownership of the imaging service is targeted to take place from St John of God Health Care to Western Medical Imaging on 21 May 2007.  The transfer of ownership of the angiography business from Western Medical Imaging to St John of God Health Care will take place on 2 July 2007.

The general imaging service in Ballarat was St John of God Health Care's only remaining imaging service across its 11 hospitals, having progressively exited its other imaging services in recent years.

St John of God Health Care has substantially grown through the acquisitions of hospitals and pathology services in recent years, and is now Australia's third largest private hospital operator and fourth largest pathology service provider. The organisation's prime focus and energies will continue to be directed to these areas of clinical activity.

Western Medical Imaging already provides a comprehensive service opposite the Hospital as Ballarat Radiology and has several other comprehensive sites in Melbourne as well as operating the Imaging services at Stawell and Ararat Hospital's.

The relocation of the Ballarat practice into St John of God Hospital, Ballarat will allow full integration of its comprehensive services and enable state of the art electronic imaging and reporting facilities to be available to the whole Ballarat community.

Western Medial Imaging's radiologists have been associated with medical imaging services at St John of God Hospital, Ballarat for many years and are looking forward to a continued relationship with the hospital particularly in its new phase of redevelopment.

22 March 2007

St John of God Health Care has appointed Ms Fiona Athersmith as its Group Director Marketing and Public Relations.

Ms Athersmith will be responsible for continuing to develop and lead group-wide marketing and public relations strategies across the organisation, now Australia's third largest private hospital operator and the largest Catholic not for profit private health care group. St John of God Health Care employs over 6,700 staff in its 11 hospitals and pathology services across Western Australia and Victoria.

In a first for the group, the position will be based in Melbourne, in part reflecting the expansion and growth of St John of God Health Care's operations on the east coast of Australia.

Ms Athersmith started her career at St John of God Health Care in February 2004 in Melbourne in the newly created role of Marketing and Public Relations Manager, Eastern Region. Over the past 12 months, she provided maternity cover as Acting Group Director Marketing and Public Relations.

With a Bachelor of Arts (Journalism), Ms Athersmith spent 10 years in newspapers, chiefly at the The Age newspaper in Melbourne. After leaving The Age, she worked in senior marketing and public relations role at World Vision Australia, the National Crime Authority (now Australian Crime Commission), Tourism Victoria and The Royal Victorian Eye & Ear Hospital. She is a member of the Australian Marketing Institute.

6 March 2007

Premier Alan Carpenter today officially launched the completion of a $14.5 million redevelopment and expansion of St John of God Hospital, Bunbury.

The 15 month long redevelopment project has increased bed numbers at the hospital from 92 to 120 beds, adding 20 overnight beds and eight day stay beds. Other improvements include a new operating theatre, extension of the day procedure unit and recovery room, a new high dependency unit and a refurbished delivery suite and palliative care wing.
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The Premier said the redevelopment was a significant achievement by St John of God Health Care in improving health care services in Western Australia's south west.

"The project demonstrates St John of God Health Care's continuing commitment to the private health care sector, particularly in rural areas," he said.

"The expansion of the hospital in Bunbury will mean doctors, nurses and allied health staff will be better able to meet the increasing health demands of the rapidly growing population in the region."

St John of God is co-located with the Bunbury Regional Hospital, with the expansion building on the success of the South West Health Campus in attracting and supporting medical practitioners and other health professionals in Bunbury and the South West. The range and scope of diagnostic and medical and hospital services available in the South West is also testimony to this success.

Mark Grime, hospital Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of St John of God Health Care WA Regional Health Service, said as the only private hospital in the South West, the expansion would benefit the rural and regional communities in this area, ensuring they had the same access to high quality and diverse health care services as their metropolitan counterparts.

"The construction of our new high dependency unit, operating theatres and new medical and surgical wards means we are offering more advanced clinical services in the south west region of WA in keeping with the increased expectations and needs of privately insured patients," he said.

"With the expansion of the hospital we expect that more medical specialists will be attracted to the Bunbury region, and the new facilities will allow us to accommodate anticipated population growth in the years ahead."

"Regional patients often are faced with fewer choices in relation to accessing health services. St John of God Health Care's commitment to redressing this inequity is shown through this expansion and through partnering and working closely will other health providers and Government," Mark said.

The redevelopment project includes:
* a new operating theatre
* extension of the day procedure unit and recovery room
* 20 additional overnight beds and 8 additional day stay beds
* a new high dependency unit
* improved surgical ward
* refurbished delivery suite and maternity ward
* expansion, refurbishment and relocation of the palliative care unit
* 70 additional car parking bays

Medical Practitioners interested in learning more about opportunities at St John of God Hospital, Bunbury are encouraged to contact Mark Grime on 9722 1621.

5 March 2007

Anna Roberts has been appointed in the newly created role of Coordinator, Mental Health Program for St John of God Health Care (SJGHC). Anna, who commenced in the role on 12 February, was formerly a Senior Consultant for Reform and Special Projects with the Mental Health Division, Department of Health in Western Australia.

Anna is a registered Psychologist and member of the Australian Psychological Society, beginning her professional career in a number of primary and secondary schools in Western Australia. Her past roles have included Primary Mental Health Care Development and Liaison Officer supporting the Divisions of General Practice across the state in the advancement of primary mental health care and later as the State Manager of the WA Divisions State Office.

In her new role, Anna is aiming to raise the profile of mental health within SJGHC as well as the profile of SJGHC within the mental health care sector. She will also explore linkages with local state and national government mental health initiatives.

"I hope to support the excellent work already being done by SJGHC in the area of mental health and I look forward to assisting in the expansion of services", Anna said.

St John of God Health Care already has a growing number of mental health services operating under its Social Outreach & Advocacy program in both Western Australia and Victoria, including peri natal mental health services and community counselling services. Anna will be responsible for reviewing and implementing the mental health strategy for the organisation as well as providing support and advice to existing and developing mental health services at SJGHC.

Anna will be based at SJGHC's head office in West Perth.

21 February 2007

Mr Donald (Don) Good has been appointed Chairman of Trustees for St John of God Health Care, effective from 1 March 2007.

Mr Good replaces Sister Isobel Moran, who has been Chairman of Trustees for the past seven years. A Trustee since 1996, Sr Moran, the Province Leader of the Sisters of St John of God in Australia, will remain one of nine Trustees.

Sr Moran, announcing Mr Good's appointment, said he had a wealth of experience in Catholic healthcare. "Don's credibility and integrity are of the highest order and he has long demonstrated a commitment to the healing mission of Jesus."

St John of God Health Care's Group Chief Executive Officer, Dr Michael Stanford, thanked Sr Isobel for providing outstanding leadership during her term as Chairman. "Sr Isobel sees it as a natural evolution that a lay person now takes on the role of Chairman of Trustees," he said.

The Trustees, who are non-executive, are responsible for the governance of St John of God Health Care, appointing members of the Governing Board.

Mr Good has been a Trustee since January 2000. With a background in accountancy, he started his career with St John of God Health Care at its Subiaco hospital where he held a number of senior roles. In 1989, he became National Director of Finance, progressing to Joint Acting National Chief Executive Officer.

Mr Good's financial expertise is widely sought within Western Australia. He is a Governor of the University of Notre Dame Australia and holds numerous board and committee appointments including with the Health Employees Superannuation Trust of Australia, Frontier Investment Consulting Pty Ltd, the Sisters of St John of God and the St John of God Foundation.

St John of God Health Care is Australia's third largest private hospital operator and the nation's largest Catholic not for profit private health care group. It operates 11 acute, rehabilitation and psychiatric hospitals in Western Australia and Victoria, as well as pathology services across both states and a Social Outreach and Advocacy program targeting poor health and disadvantage within local, national and international communities.

16 January 2007

St John of God Health Care is investing $2.85 million to construct new offices and a warehouse in Ballarat to service its seven hospitals and pathology business in Victoria.

The not-for-profit Catholic health care group, Australia's third largest private hospital operator, is building a shared services complex in Grandlee Drive, Wendouree, which will house 30 staff working in the supply, payroll, finance and information technology areas.

The Chief Executive Officer of St John of God Hospital, Ballarat, Mr John Fogarty, said the decision by St John of God Health Care to further invest in Ballarat was significant recognition that the city was a great location for business services.

"We are helping to keep local jobs local," Mr Fogarty said. Ballarat based builder Resicare won the building tender and is expected to complete work in August 2007.

"This investment in Ballarat and its community comes on top of the decision by the group's Governing Board to approve the $57 million hospital redevelopment, which is now well on its way," Mr Fogarty said.

"The need for a separate complex to house shared services and a warehouse for our Victorian hospitals and pathology business became critical with St John of God Health Care's rapid growth across Victoria over the last four years and the Ballarat hospital's redevelopment."

Up until four years ago, the group operated three hospitals in Victoria - St John of God Hospital, Warrnambool; St John of God Hospital, Geelong and St John of God Hospital, Ballarat, which was established in 1915, growing to become Victoria's largest regional private hospital.

Since then, St John of God Health Care has acquired two more acute hospitals - St John of God Hospital, Bendigo and St John of God Hospital, Berwick - a specialist rehabilitation hospital in Frankston, St John of God Nepean Rehabilitation Hospital; and a psychiatric and drug and alcohol services hospital, St John of God Pinelodge Clinic in Dandenong. The group also acquired PathCare Consulting Pathologists in Geelong, expanding its pathology business, which already operated across Victoria.

The new facility in Wendouree includes 900 square metres of warehouse and 600 square metres of office accommodation.