Ms Kylie Saccotelli1, Mr Tony Sheng2, Lucy Whelan3, Nicole Ellery4
1Monash Health, Melbourne, Australia, 2Monash Health, Melbourne, Australia, 3Monash Health, Melbourne, Australia, 4Monash Health, Melbourne, Australia
Biography:
Kylie began her career as an Allied Health Assistant (AHA) in 2012. She developed a broad skill set and deep understanding of the field, which led to her transition into a Workforce Officer role in 2022.
In 2024, Kylie stepped into Allied Health Assistant and Support Workforce Advisor role, where she continues to contribute her expertise to the sector. She has a strong passion for credentialing, scope of practice for AHAs, and is deeply committed to advancing training, education, and leadership pathways. Kylie’s career reflects her dedication to improving the workforce and empowering AHAs.
Abstract:
Background:
Professional development and community are essential for allied health assistants (AHAs) as they foster knowledge, skill, and career growth. Engaging in professional development ensures AHAs stay updated on best practices, while community support encourages collaboration, reduces isolation, and enhances job satisfaction, ultimately improving patient care. We implemented Allied Health Assistant (AHA) Day to showcase and celebrate this important workforce.
Method:
The evolution of the annual AHA Day from a small afternoon tea to an international conference over eight years is described.
Results:
AHA Day began informally from 2014 as a local afternoon tea, allowing AHAs to connect, share experiences, and be recognised. In 2017, the event evolved into an afternoon of professional development at one main site, optimising peer networking and learning opportunities. Following the local success of the event, AHA Day expanded in 2018 to a full day of professional development, offered to 300 internal and external attendees. Workshops and discussions focused on patient care, advocacy, and challenges AHAs face, broadening the event’s scope and visibility within the allied health sector. From 2020, the conference shifted online in response to pandemic restrictions, partnering with an IT provider to include keynote speakers, panel discussions, and industry updates. This shift enhanced access for over 500 regional, rural, interstate, and international attendees.
Discussion:
AHA Day has become a key event in the AHA workforce's calendar, showcasing the growing recognition of AHAs’ vital role in healthcare and highlighting the efforts to elevate the profession and create a strong, interconnected community of AHAs.