Ms Sarah Wilson1
1Calhn, Australia
Biography:
Sarah graduated in 2006 BSc (Hons) Prosthetics and Orthotics from Strathclyde University, Glasgow. Her early career was spent practising both disciplines and she developed an interested in diabetes which led to her complete MSc Diabetes in 2012 at Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh. She previously worked as Clinical Prosthetic Manager Steepers, London, before immigrating to Australia with her family in late 2020. For the last 4 years Sarah has managed the Orthotic and Prosthetic Service at Central Adelaide Local Health Network.
Abstract:
The orthotics and prosthetics workforce are a small although critical part of the health workforce, providing essential care across the consumer journey. Building, developing, and sustaining this workforce is a priority to meet the growing needs of the South Australian communities. Post Covid 19, the Central Adelaide Local Health Network (CALHN) experienced a critical workforce shortage within the orthotics and prosthetics service. This was a result of significant clinical and technical workforce movement within an 18-month period, due to state borders opening, and opportunities within other public and private settings. With no undergraduate education pathway available in SA in combination with the loss of senior level experience, a rapid and innovative approach was required to grow and build the workforce. Now in 2025 CALHN has a strong, vibrant, and dynamic orthotics & prosthetics workforce strategically placed to meet current demands on the service. This presentation will discuss the workforce challenges and the strategies we used to attract and retain a skilled workforce to meet the needs of CALHN’s consumers and communities. Including overseas recruitment, reviewing scope of practise, strengthening connections within other local health networks and a focus on developing a learning environment to support a junior workforce. The presentation will also reflect on the lessons learnt along the way and how to future proof the service.