WITH a good reputation, staff are retained and new people attracted.
It’s not a new philosophy, but certainly cemented at Cohuna District Hospital, after a recent surprise visit from the Commonwealth Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission Assessment confirmed the aged care service is fully accredited and meets all requirements.
“When you are 100 per cent accredited with the Aged Care Commission, it is the highest recognition you can get, and it sends a powerful message to residents that they are a priority and their needs are being met,” Cohuna District Hospital chief executive Bernadette Loughnane said.
A team of four assessed the health service over several days against the quality and safety standards to ensure quality care is in place for residents.
Director of clinical services Wendy Lunghusen elaborated on what the assessment team was impressed with.
“The assessors were particularly impressed by the calibre of our aged care workforce and their commitment to the care of our aged care residents,” she said.
Ms Loughnane was excited about what this meant.
“From a workforce perspective, when you’ve got such a good reputation, it definitely attracts people to work here,” she said.
“It gives confidence to the community that there are no gaps in our service model, which involves governance, patient safety, workforce, and the social and mental wellbeing of our residents.”
None of this would have been possible without the help of staff, according to Ms Loughnane.
“The staff have been absolutely committed, professional and focused,” she said.
“The group that have worked here have been employed in aged care for a long time, and their priority is the care of the residents and their families.”
Board president Ross Dallimore agreed, saying “this continues the commitment to excellence in rural healthcare”.
“We are proud of the service our team continues to provide to our community.”
