Burdekin locals from all corners of the region and walks of life have been encouraged to express their interest in becoming a member of the Burdekin-based Community Advisory Network (CAN).
The CAN plays a vital role in ensuring health consumers' voices are heard, giving feedback on existing services and identifying areas for improvement. Items discussed at the CAN are raised with the Consumer Advisory Council which looks at issues across the entire Townsville Hospital and Health Service catchment area. Members Joanne Barbagallo and Barb Stockdale have encouraged anyone who has had any interaction with the Ayr and Home Hill services to get involved in the CAN.
Joanne wanted to join the CAN to help improve the delivery of healthcare in the Burdekin.
“We come together for a monthly two-hour meeting and as a group we discuss issues, raise potential healthcare solutions and advocate for better healthcare in the Burdekin,” said Joanne.
“We want everyday people to be part of the CAN, especially people that are using our hospital and health service currently or are caring for someone who does.
“We need their feedback and information to understand the community’s needs.”
Barb said being part of the CAN was a fulfilling way to give back to the community and to provide support for better health care outcomes in the region.
“Over the past four years the CAN has been able to make improvements including changes to the dental service hours to better suit the community, advocate as a collective for important medical equipment, raising awareness about the challenges faced by healthcare staff and more,” explained Barb.
“Being involved in the CAN has given me a new appreciation for the challenging job our healthcare workers face and the impact I can have in improving health in the community.
“It’s not about having prior experience or expertise; it’s about sharing your perspective and helping us to shape a better healthcare system for the Burdekin.”
Expressions of interest close on Friday, 26 July, and more information can be found online at www.townsville.health.qld.gov.au/support-us/consumer-andcommunity-engagement/consultation-hub/.
Current members of the Community Advisory Network (CAN), Barb Stockdale and Joanne Barbagallo, encourage others to join up. Photo supplied
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