How Tasmanian truck drivers have been/were supported to take their health care on the road In a world that runs on convenience, it’s easy to forget about the people behind the wheel – keeping our shelves stocked and goods moving across the state and country. Truck drivers play an important role in our everyday lives,…
You wouldn’t expect primary health care and health promotion would fit into the job description of a paramedic. But community paramedics – an emerging position in Ambulance Tasmania – are helping create a much-needed bridge between emergency services and primary care. These specialised paramedics focus on non-urgent, low-acuity (less severe) and complex, chronic cases,…
How one nurse practitioner was moved to support vulnerable Tasmanians and now inspires other health professionals in her clinic Inspiration for meaningful action can strike at the most unexpected times. For Launceston-based nurse practitioner Jane Laidlaw, it happened during a routine drive to an early gym class in 2018. Once parked, she saw someone living…
How two general practices recruit and retain new GPs by creating a sense of belonging In the rural and remote areas of north and north-west Tasmania, attracting and retaining GPs has long been a challenge. Many doctors who start their careers in these regions face significant barriers to staying long term – including professional isolation,…
Dementia is a condition that affects the ability to perform daily tasks, significantly impacting both people living with dementia and their loved ones. As Tasmania’s population ages, dementia is becoming a pressing public health issue. By 2042, more than 25% of the Tasmanian population will be aged 65 and over. But when does forgetfulness turn…
How a Tasmanian program is increasing access to palliative care medicines When you are caring for someone near the end of their life, it can be hard to find the medicines they need outside a hospital or specialist care environment. But a new project that encourages community pharmacies to stock a core range of palliative…