Southern Cross Care NSW/ACT has received Catholic Health Australia's 2022 Award for Leadership in Positive Ageing for its response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Announced on Tuesday night at the National Catholic Health Australia Conference in Brisbane, the award recognised Southern Cross Care's COVID-19 navigation plan for its clinical excellence and infection prevention and control protocols.
“From the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic Southern Cross Care have shown a preparedness and
determination to protect not just the physical health of their residents and staff, but also their social
and emotional wellbeing," said Catholic Health Australia CEO Pat Garcia.
Southern Cross Care CEO Helen Emmerson spoke of nurse-led care as being "one of our defining points of difference".
“We are very proud to be run by nurses and led by nurses. Both the chief operating officer and myself are registered nurses with a true passion for delivering quality care," Emmerson said.
“Our COVID-19 Navigation plan minimised the need to furlough staff during outbreaks and helped
prevent significant transmission. Our team has the necessary training, resources and support in
place to manage COVID-19 confidently.”
Southern Cross Care's multi-layered engagement model was also acknowledged in the award.
"Our leisure, lifestyle and engagement programs are resident-led and we are currently deepening
this engagement," Emmerson said.
"This gives our residents the confidence to continue doing what brings them joy and purpose."
The Catholic Health Australia National Awards are held each year to recognise exemplary contributions to health and aged care.
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