Calvary Mater Hospital in Newcastle has appointed Kamilaroi woman Margaret Whitson to the role of Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officer following community consultation that revealed a need for the position.
"It's been a wish of the community for a while now," said the hospital's Director of Mission Mary Ringstad.
"We conducted a cultural safety audit two years ago, and it was very apparent from the Aboriginal community that one of the critical determinants of their at-home-ness in a hospital environment and their comfort at being in a hospital environment, is the presence of an Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officer."
"This person actually provides the vital link for the Aboriginal community in coming into hospital and feeling confident and safe in this environment".
Ms Whitson will be responsible for providing advocacy, education, emotional, practical, social and welfare support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients and their families, ensuring referrals and linkages are made to appropriate community support programs.
The position will also enable Ms Whitson to work with hospital staff in creating and implementing programs and strategies that will assist in improving health outcomes for Indigenous patients.
"We are delighted that Margaret is now on hand to provide the support our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients and their families need while being cared for at Calvary Mater Newcastle,"
"Margaret's work in the hospital directly contributes to the outcomes for this at-risk population," Ms Ringstad said.
Margaret Whitson will be available at Calvary Mater Newcastle from Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5pm.
