BASS Coast Health is being celebrated by the Allan Labor Government for taking out the Premier’s Medium Health Service of the Year at the Victorian Public Healthcare Awards.
Serving a community of 80,000 with more than 3.4million visitors annually, the We Care@BCH values guide all 1400 staff to optimise the wellbeing of consumers and community to deliver equitable care, lead with compassion, be accountable for what they do, respect differences and aim for excellence.
This health service deserves recognition also for being a finalist in the Category ‘Partnering in Healthcare’ – for clinical collaboration with Alfred Health.
“Bass Coast Health is so deserving of this recognition as it reflects the dedication, care and professionalism of our entire healthcare team who work tirelessly to provide high quality of care and support to our community,” Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale said.
“Whether it is in the ED, on the wards, at the front desk, behind the scenes, hospital in the home, residential care, specialist care like cancer and dialysis, the smile squad in our schools and the many other services and programs they offer. This award is because of the amazing people – who are in our community every day, making a difference, are all heart and we are so grateful for their service and commitment to keeping us healthy.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank the many volunteers, the auxiliaries, local businesses, community groups and members who support our much-loved service in so many wonderful ways from patient transfers, family support, fundraising, donations, fetes and more.
“Congratulations also to all the finalists and winners from this year’s awards.”
Since 2017, Alfred Health and Bass Coast Health have partnered to deliver care across eight specialities, including cancer, heart and brain. Locally this has meant getting the same level of care available in large metro hospitals and at the same time improved access to many lifesaving clinical trials, without having to travel long distances.
The award falls under one of 19 general categories which reflect the Labor Government’s healthcare priorities. This includes care closer to home, mental health support, and care for key community groups, such as women’s and Aboriginal health and wellbeing as well as aged care.
With nearly 60 finalists, the programs, projects and people at the heart of the awards night are also looking at ways to improve access to healthcare, safety improvements, sustainability, improving the patient experience and strengthening the workforce.
Health volunteers with 30 or more years of service were also applauded at the event and included on the Health Volunteer Honour Roll, which recognises individuals for their selfless commitment and dedication to healthcare.
Locally the Government continues to deliver investment into health services including a new community hospital on Phillip Island opening in 2025, Wonthaggi Hospital Expansion Stage 1 and 2, Regional Worker Accommodation funding and upgrades and specialist equipment through the Regional Health Infrastructure Fund.