CEO report

What a privilege it is to be back in the CEO seat after maternity leave. When I returned in late 2021 I was pleased to see continued progress towards our vision of well people, resilient communities under the leadership of Julie Redway. I would like to formally thank Julie for her time as Acting CEO, employees who took on acting roles, and for all staff for their continued efforts in supporting the health and wellbeing of our communities.

Recently I was reflecting on my own first early experience of the health system and the challenges rural and regional communities face in accessing health services. For me, my own birth was several hours from my hometown, and some weeks early, providing challenges for my family as I received the care I needed. Yet this experience is not uncommon for many people living across our 508 communities who often experience challenges when attempting to access care close to home throughout their life. Personal experiences are key to understanding the impact and challenges people face in accessing health care. The Health Needs Assessment 2022-2025 published in May 2022 captures qualitative stories to either support stories being illustrated through quantitative data sources or highlight emerging needs. It is not unusual for data delays, and personal stories of people’s experience accessing healthcare is critical. Equally important is working with our communities and healthcare providers to develop solutions. In fact, Working Together is the theme of this year’s annual report. Within the pages of this Annual Report you will find stories of how MPHN has worked closely to collaborate with our various stakeholders to improve health outcomes for our communities. I’m incredibly proud of what we have achieved over this financial year. The challenges of health pandemics and natural disasters have, and will, continue to test us. But like all rural and regional communities, innovations to meet these challenges often come from the grassroots, and as an organisation we have a role in supporting community driven innovations.

As we continue to look for opportunities to collaborate, innovate and inspire, our partners are critical. From larger organisations and peak bodies, to health providers including general practice, pharmacy, allied health, aged care, and our commissioned services; and our communities through councils, Local Health Advisory Committees, and community groups. Each has a role. Each has a voice. And each has an important role in improving health outcomes of Murrumbidgee communities.

Melissa Neal