Striving for excellence in the Allied Health Assistant workforce
Narelle Dalley1, Kaye Young1, Sally Harris1 1Bendigo Health, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia
Abstract
Background
Bendigo Health, coached by Monash Health, are implementing the Victorian Allied Health Assistant (AHA) Workforce recommendations to support optimal utilisation of AHA’s across the sector. These recommendations were developed after sector wide consultation and are underpinned by three core principles: Respect, Learn and Grow. Bendigo Health recognise the AHA workforce as an underutilised resource, through which review and goal-oriented improvements can provide much needed support to an exhausted healthcare workforce and improve patient outcomes.
Project Implementation
The 16-week Monash coaching implementation program is led by the Bendigo Health Allied Health Operations Manager and a Grade 3 Allied Health Assistant. The Monash Team provide support for scoping and implementation of the recommendations via weekly online meetings, Action Log and workshops.
Goals
-To strengthen the relationship with the local Registered Training Authority to improve AHA student job readiness.
-Ensure defined supervision and delegation structures and processes are in place.
-Increase and sustain the AHA workforce within Bendigo Health.
-Develop a standardised process for recruitment and on-boarding of AHAs.
-Implementation of AHA specific competency-based training, delivery, assessment and recording.
-Implement a targeted professional development program for AHA’s.
Discussion
The Monash Health coaching implementation program has identified areas for improvement in the Bendigo Health AHA workforce. After implementing the AHA workforce recommendations, Bendigo Health anticipate a reduction in burden to an already fatigued Allied Health workforce, increased AHA engagement, and ultimately improved patient care.
Biography
Narelle Dalley graduated in 2002 as physiotherapist. She then gained experience in public and private health in Australia, New Zealand and the UK. She has been working in management roles for over 10 years, and is currently the Allied Health Operations Manager at Bendigo Health.