The Primary Health Network (PHN) is looking for nominees for its 2022 Primary Care Quality and Innovation Awards.
Following the success of the inaugural awards last year, the PHN is calling on all primary care providers, businesses and individuals from across the region to nominate themselves or someone they know for one or more of the six award categories.
Hunter New England Central Coast Primary Health Network CEO, Richard Nankervis, said it was exciting to once again have the opportunity to recognise innovations and accomplishments in what was “yet another challenging year for our sector”.
“I am eager to learn more about the amazing innovations and new ways of working established to provide our community with the best quality care,” he said.
“We are a large not-for-profit organisation working with health centres, businesses and individuals who help deliver quality primary care to patients in a community which spans 13,000km in rural and metropolitan regions.
“As leaders in our sector we need to acknowledge the challenges we have faced and the dedication and commitment of primary care providers throughout.”
Winner of the Patients First Award last year was Complete Health at Crossways, Terrigal.
Practice manager, Toni McSweeny, had only just taken on the job when nominations were announced.
“One of the first jobs I did was put pen to paper to apply and it was wonderful to be recognised,” she said.
“We are only a small practice with two doctors, but we provide a holistic approach, combining GP services with a bit of cosmetics and lifestyle medicine.
“I think the award was reflective of the holistic services the practice provides.”
The primary care sector on the Central Coast has faced another year of challenges, from the pandemic to major flooding.
The PHN says that now more than ever, it is important to acknowledge those who are tackling every challenge head-on and continuing to deliver quality care.
The award categories are: Patients First; Closing The Gap Supporting Patients Through Technology; Primary Care Innovation; Primary Care Leader; and Dedication To Primary Service.
Submissions close on Friday, April 29. Winners will be announced at the NEX Exhibition and Convention Centre on Friday, June 24.
For more information and entry criteria, see PHN’s Awards landing page.
Terry Collins