Recommendations made by the External Review Committee into workplace culture of ACT Health are welcomed by the Australian College of Nursing (ACN).
The Final Report from the Independent Review into the Workplace Culture within ACT Public Health Services was released today, detailing recommendations which aim to improve and address any issues of poor workplace culture.
“We commend the considerable efforts made by the External Review Committee members and other individuals and organisations into delivering this report,” Australian College of Nursing CEO Adjunct Professor Kylie Ward FACN said. “We also welcome ACT Minister for Health and Wellbeing Meegan Fitzharris, MLA as Chair of the proposed Implementation Group which will oversee the recommendations to be made within ACT public health services.
“This review is focused on addressing substandard workplace culture within the ACT health care system, in addition to building a positive foundation for health professionals to provide quality health care.
“For nurses to continue to provide quality care to those who need it, workplaces need to continually foster a culture of learning, support and transparency.
“Leadership skills in any occupation drive change, but in the nursing profession, leadership skills are vital to patient care and advocacy, regardless of your title or position. Nurses with leadership skills are change makers who take a holistic, patient-centred approach to care.
“ACN advocates for a positive work culture and strongly believes that involving nurses, who represent a significant portion of the health workforce and are the interface of the health care system for patients, is vital to the comprehensive implementation of the findings and recommendations from this review.
“ACN welcomes the opportunity to be consulted as part of the Implementation Group following the Review, as we bring extensive knowledge and understanding of what is required for effective governance and leadership to improve culture and create healthy workplace environments.”
