The FNQ community is investing in the education of one of its most valued resources – doctors, nurses and allied health clinicians.
Through the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation, $42,252 has been invested in more than 40 staff of the Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service, and the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service.
Foundation CEO Tony Franz said this year we received a record 73 applications, with 43 applicants approved to receive up to $1500 each to go towards approved courses or educational opportunities.
“Funds for these education grants come from general donations received, and also profits from our commercial operations that we operate,” Mr Franz said.
“The Foundation sees investing in our staff as a vital aspect of what we do and we are thrilled that so many came to us this year, with a view to accessing these education grants to further their own skills,” he said.
Cairns Hospital memory clinic senior psychologist Denise Craig (above left) used her education grant to attend a bioethics and health law conference.
“I was grateful for the opportunity to present the outcomes of an “end of life law” education series and enrich my own knowledge of the research and perspectives of others,” Ms Craig said.
Her role within the health service is primarily one of supporting people living with dementia to live to their post diagnosis potential and “get on with the business of living”.
“It is always important, as a clinician researcher, to share knowledge, potentially motivating others to improve services and patient outcomes and perhaps even to conduct their own research. I sincerely thank the Hospital Foundation for this opportunity,” Ms Craig said.
Cairns Hospital Ear, Nose and Throat unaccredited trainee Dr Lyndon Nofz (above right) used his education grant to travel to present research at a conference featuring international delegates.
“My research involved unique case studies of patients I had seen during my time at Cairns Hospital that presented a diagnostic and/or treatment dilemma, Dr Nofz said. “Presenting the case studies at the Australasia Laryngology Conference helped me understand the disease process and treatment options better, and allowed me to discuss it with national and international colleagues,” Dr Nofz said.
