Hollywood Private Hospital in Nedlands, Western Australia developed a program in 2006 which was designed to address eight key areas of operations to ensure it had a robust and well trained workforce as the years (and patient demand) increased – a program which has been shortlisted in the prestigious NATIONAL ACCOLADES FOR EXCELLENCE – the awards program for the nationally focused Community Services and Health Industry Skills Council.
“The operating environment is very competitive with three major public hospitals and one major private hospital all within close proximity. This poses a significant challenge in attracting and retaining health care workers. Our ‘Octopus strategy’ was designed to target high school students, mature aged workers and apprentices by mapping and supporting career pathways using the Health Training Package.” Explains Anne Green, Manager, Training and Development with Hollywood Hospital.
Hollywood Hospital entered the awards in the Workforce Development in Health category. Key aspects of the project were:
• The trainee partnerships with local high school students which helps them gain employment and commence a career pathway appropriate to their interests
• Addressing the recruitment and retention issues surrounding the employment of Gen Y
• Career development for nursing graduates including and beyond the first year
of employment
Hollywood Private Hospital is recgonised as a leader in providing vocational training leading to nationally recognized qualifications to a diverse range of staff. “We continually look for new ways to innovate the way we deliver our training. To be shortlisted as a finalist means we are on the right track in developing new programs.” Enthused Anne.
Industry Skills Council Research, Development and Policy Manager, Robin Flynn explained the need for such a prestigious awards program, “With over a million people employed, the Community Services and Health Industries are one of the largest employer groups in the country, and underpin the national economy. In fact, when other industries are shrinking, these industries continue to grow and employ more and more Australians. Everyday. The Community Services and Health Industry Skills Council established the awards program to recognize excellence in the industries which support and care for our entire country”
The winner of the National Accolades For Excellence Awards will be announced at a Gala Dinner in Melbourne on October 21st.
To arrange an interview with any of the finalists or to speak with the Industry Skills Council about their awards program, contact Kate Engler 0412 526 851
