Mrs Leesa Thomas1
1Rural Health West, Perth, Australia
Biography:
As a senior executive with over 19 years in the rural health sector, Leesa Thomas is the General Manager Education and Engagement at Rural Health West. Leesa leads the delivery of current and contemporary medical and health education program and community engagement activities, and is responsible for establishing and governance of the regional Health Professionals Networks across rural and remote Western Australia. Leesa also oversees any research translation activities and facilitates other health system support activities and special projects undertaken in collaboration with partner organisations. She has extensive contacts across the rural WA and passionate about rural health and communities.
Abstract:
Research on rural health sectors has consistently shown programs and interventions that deliver continuing professional development (CPD), personal support and financial incentives are vital to maintaining an effective rural health workforce. it also shows that local connectivity, collegiate support and professional relationships can have the most positive impact on a health professional’s decision to live and work in a particular rural location over a long term.
Access to CPD is a major barrier for health professionals in rural WA. Geographic isolation, high costs, lack of locum backfill and restrictive workplace policies mean clinicians frequently miss out on training opportunities. Allied health and nursing staff are particularly disadvantaged, with limited structured pathways and funding support.
The Health Professional Networks (HPNs) established in each region of Western Australia have emerged as a highly effective solution, connecting clinicians to peer networks, providing regional and online CPD and fostering interprofessional collaboration and support.
The HPNs were established over a two-year period (2019-2021). Since inception, 5,200 health professionals have joined a network and participate regularly in locally delivered educational and social engagement activities.
The HPNs are locally-driven by seven regional interagency Steering Committees comprising representatives from various work settings and across the continuum of career stage. The committee guides the operation and determines the education and professional development to be delivered by their respective network, to meet the health needs of the communities they serve. Each HPN is resourced with a regionally-based Coordinator.
A recent survey of HPN members found that 85 per cent of members have experienced greater collegiate support due to their involvement in their local HPN and 94 per cent of members would recommend membership to another health professional. Almost two thirds of members said HPN membership has enabled them to navigate better referral pathways and options, thereby improving patient outcomes.