Executive message Dr. Tim SinclairGeneral Manager

We want to hear from you!Does your ward or department have a story, event or staffachievement that you would like to share with the hospital?Mail peta.macfarlane@sswahs.nsw.gov.auwith your story and pictures.

Front Cover Picture:Dr Tim Sinclair, General Manager Concord Hospital, Professor The Honourable Dame Marie Bashir AD CVO and Professor David Le Couteur, Scientific Director Ageing and Alzheimers Institute at the launch of the AAAI

Photograph by:Produced by:

Design & Print by:

Audio Visual Services, SLHDMarketing and Community Relations Department,Concord Repatriation General HospitalPrint Rite Australiasales@printrite.com.au

Welcome to the Summer edition of the Concord Connection. Preparations for Christmas are in full swing in the Hospital with a number of wards par-ticipating in this year’s Christmas Decoration Competition. If last year is any indication, the Hospital will be transformed into a Christmas Wonderland. The Hospital’s Choir is also preparing to carol through some of our wards, BunningsHardware have very generously offered a numberof gifts for patients over the festive period and of course the always welcome Staff Barbequewill be held on 17 December.

To accompany the festive mood, the Hospitalcontinues to perform extremely well, despite an exceptionally busy Winter and Spring. July, August, September and October have all been recordbreaking months in terms of presentations tothe Emergency Department and admissions to the Hospital. Despite this increased activity, theHospital has maintained the highest standardsof care with all major quality and safety targetsbeing met. In particular, the Hospital’s performancein seeing patients within target time frames forboth emergency and elective surgery has beenachieved once again, which is a phenomenal performance for all staff involved.

The Hospital has been working to finalise a ClinicalServices Plan (CSP). As the first stage in the MasterPlanning process, the CSP will help to identifyfuture healthcare needs of our patients, assist inpreparing the hospital for changing and new modelsof care, identify the physical appropriateness of the Hospital’s design and any improvements thatmay need to occur and finally to understand thehealth and medical research requirements of theHospital in the future.

In addition to growing the core clinical service, diagnostic and tertiary components of care, the CSP proposes the development of a number of majornew models of care and contemporary service approaches. In particular, proposals include:• Veterans’PhysicalandMentalHealth Rehabilitation Centre of Excellence• AmbulatoryCarePrecinct• IntegratedCancerCarePrecinct• IntegratedAgedCareandRehabilitation Precinct

• Redesigned“hot”area- Emergency Department, ICU and Theatres• Upgradeddiagnosticservices• Expandedtertiarycare• Enhanced health and medical research with a focus on clinical service and research integration

As the finishing touches are made to the CSP, the Hospital is progressing with the master planning process. The next stages of master planning will be focused on the physical design of the Hospital. Through consultation with Hospital staff, the physical requirements of each department will be identified and built into the Services Procurement Plan and Project Definition Plan, which is then usedas the final business case for the redevelopment.This consultation and design process will assist in developing even stronger relationships betweenour departments into the future allowing ConcordHospital to continue its legacy of providingexemplary care to its patients.

2014 has been a wonderful year for ConcordHospital with the completion of the Palliative CareUnit in June, the opening of the Sydney SurvivorshipCentre in May and of course our regular annual events such as Harmony Day, International Nurses Day, International Secretaries Day, The Winter Solstice Dinner, Concord Clinical Week, Tour de Concord, Environmental Services Day and theOpera at Rivendell to name just a few. Additionally,continuing the Hospital’s strong history with Australia’s Armed Forces, the Hospital held a number of memorial services to mark the anniversaries of ANZAC, the Battle of Kapyong, the sinking of the hospital ship Centaur, Victory in the Pacific, andRemembrance Day.

With the continued focus on master planning andthe major ceremonies for the Centenary of ANZAC,2015 is shaping up to be another fantastic and busy year at Concord Hospital. Thank you everyonefor your hard work and commitment throughout the year. It is our wonderful group of dedicated staff who make Concord Hospital one of the most successful facilities in the state. I wish you all thevery best for the Christmas period and I look forwardto seeing you all in the new year.

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Families past and present came together in Septemberto celebrate Yaralla Child Care Centre’s forty year anniversary milestone. Highlights of the day were activities such as face painting, commemorative craft and singing performances by the children, accompaniedby Shanti Senadeera on the keyboard. Special guest appearances were made by superheroes Batman, Spiderman and Wonderwoman and crew members of Rhodes Fire Brigade.

Former director Betty Walker regaled guests withanecdotes of her twenty-six year association with the

centre and former alumni Danielle Muha spoke fondlyof her time spent at Yaralla some years ago.

Yaralla Child Care Centre was established in 1974 as a work based Centre to provide care primarily forthe children of the nurses of Concord Hospital.

The Child Care Centre has extended its focus over the years to provide care for all Hospital staff and the local community. October 2005 saw the Centre move into itsnew purpose-built facilities, which now caters foraround sixty children per day, ranging from three months to five years.

Friday 17th October was a day of indulgence for all who attended the inaugural Pamper Day event at the Sydney Survivorship Centre. From massages, reflexology and beauty pampering to classes in Mindfulness, Yoga and Qigong, there was plenty on offer for the lucky patrons who turned up in their numbers to support the Survivorship Centre cottage. Musicians serenaded guests as they were treated to morning tea and a sumptuous buffet lunch, which was then followed by an exotic belly dance performance. There were handsome raffle and lucky door prizes on offer, with all funds raised going towards the maintenance of the Centre.

Visitorsleftfeelingbothtranquilandtransformedbytheattentionof the many volunteers who gave generously of their time and talent. These included beauticians, hairdressers, reflexologists, magician Trace of Magic, students of Australasian College MHM Education and Training Broadway and many more.

Our heartfelt thanks to them all for helping to make the day such a success!

Pamper day: A day of indulgence

Yaralla childcarecelebrates 40-year milestone

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I am persistent

I availed of the hospital’s services last 7 and 8October 2014 (came in via emergency on 7 October) and had an angiogram on 8 October and was discharged late afternoon/early evening. This is the second time in my 30 or so years inAustralia that I have used a public hospital and I have nothing but praise for the way Concordruns its service delivery.

The professionalism of staff was of a high standard;  staff made sure patients understood whyprocedures were being done on them;  staffwere prepared to listen to moans and groansthat patients carry but without being too indulgent or patronizing. Touches such as the provision ofan extra warmed blanket while lying in one ofthe treatment areas in Emergency was really nice. The cheerfulness of Emergency staff to dispelthe patients’ doom and gloom outlook wasreassuring and comforting.

It was a blur of names in Emergency but Alanwas great in putting the cannular (in one attempt), Priscilla the overall mood control and patientprocessing person looking after the floor, Fe who got another blood sample in one hit despite mynervous collapsing veins, and Fred who moved my bed to the cardiac unit. The orientation from staffat the ward (6 East) was great, the hand over briefs to the next shifts. When one is unwell and the kind of staff support you get is like what Concordprovides, the patient is very reassured andappreciative.

Names of staff in my ward, Catherine, Fiona, and I know I’ve missed others- to all of you, my thanks. It is now not unusual why numerous thank you cards populated the bulletin board. I am hoping this email finds its way to everyone who deserves to know that I felt truly privileged to have been on the re-ceiving end of what your institution does. Thank you very much, truly appreciated.  Sincerely yoursName withheld

I have been coming to concord for near on 14 yrs.I have lupus with some complications and oftenmy doctors bring me in to test me like crazy,treat me how they need to and all in all give methe most excellent care they can.

I have to say seeing as I was just released this morning and am home now that what a credityour hospital is.

From the kitchen staff to the porters, from thenurses to physio on occupational therapist, Allgo above and beyond the call of duty. Theyoften work under very difficult situations andseem to be able to smile and work through itand when it’s all to much they still treat mewith the utmost care and respect, it doesn’tmatter if I am on the rheumatology or kidneyward or in this case, MAU - the standard isalways amazing to me.

The gardeners do a wonderful job keepingthe public areas clean and neat and I knowthat no matter my situation I will always begiven outstanding care. I don’t alwaysremember everyone’s name but most nursesknow me and I always get a hug and theyalways tell me they love me. When you areunwell a welcome smile means the world onthe very rough days.

I thought it was important to let managementknow that your staff and service is absolutelyincredible.

Again thank you so much for all the care andin particular Dr Shenstone and his team. Theyhave always treated me with kindness andunderstanding, even when my body is doingone thing and my tests tell a different story.

Please pass on my regards to everyone andalthough I’m not a fan of being a patient,I know that when I need to I will be cared for.

Name withheld

My family would like to express our appreciation for the excellent services and support provided by Nicola Johnstone from ASET.

Nicola is always friendly, patience, understanding and helping us in whatever way she could, especiallyher effort in searching and arranging suitable equipment for our dad (suffered Parkinson Disease) is beyond our expectation.

Thank youName withheld

Concord’s compliments corner

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I am passionate

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Launch of the Clinical CareStandard for AntimicrobialStewardshipAntibiotic resistance poses a significant threat to public health because antibiotics underpin routine clinical practice in a variety of healthcare settings. Patients with infections caused by bacteria resistant to a specific antibacterial drug generally have an increased risk of poor clinical outcomes and death, and consume more health care resources.

The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (the Commission)has developed the Antimicrobial Stewardship Clinical Care Standard to improvethe care of patients with a bacterial infection and address the safety and qualityissues associated with the inappropriate use of antibiotics and antimicrobialresistance.

This is the first Clinical Care Standard to be launched in Australia.

Launched by the Commission at Concord Hospital in November, the unveilingwas timed to coincide with Antibiotic Awareness Week (AAW), 17-21 November 2014.

Concord Hospital’s Dr Thomas Gottlieb, Senior Specialistin Microbiology and Infectious Diseases addressedthe audience on the problem of antimicrobial resistance

Professor David Le Couteur, Scientific Director, AAAI, Professor The Honourable Dame Marie Bashir AD CVO, Dr Teresa Anderson, SLHD Chief Executive and Dr Tim Sinclair, General Manager Concord Hospital at the launch of the AAAI

Launched in October 2014 by patron Professor The Honourable DameMarie Bashir AD CVO, theAgeing And Alzheimers Institute (AAAI) supportsscientists who are researching the phenomenon ofageing and improving health care in older people.

The aim of the AAAI is to improve the quality of lifeand health of older people. The research is multidisciplinary, involving laboratory investigations,clinical assessments, population studies,pharmacological research and residential-community care studies. Medical research teamsat the AAAI are studying the reasons why ageingincreases the susceptibility to problems thatparticularly affect older people such as dementia, frailty and falls, and then developing new therapies for their prevention and treatment.

The AAAI’s volunteer Advisory Committee consistsof leading academics and members of the community who are committed to ensuringadvances in research and care for older peopleare well supported into the future.

Without AAAI funding, many of the research programs would not have been brought to a successful completion.

For further information about the Institute and itsresearch visit http://www.aaainstitute.com.au/

Patron Dame Mariewelcomes new Institute

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I am passionate I am the pride of Concord

I am persistent

There was pin drop silence at the Concord Hospital’s Medical Education Centre as a distinguished panel comprising Prof. Nico van Zandwijk, Director Asbestos Research Institute, Dr Andrew Penman, former CEO, Cancer Council, Mr Barry Robson, Chairman Asbestos Diseases Foundation of Australia, Ms Jocelyn Mclean, Mesothelioma Support Coordinator, Asbestos Diseases Research Institute and Mr Peter Dunphy, CEO Workcover NSW, presented the facts and the devastating legacy of

asbestos poisoning in our country over the last century.

The silence was broken only when the audienceentered into spirited discussion at the conclusion of the presentation, going on to express their gratitude to the panel for enlightening them on this insidious killer.

Details of the Public Health Forum calendar for 2015 will be available in the new year.

eMeds has been successfully operating in the Aged Care and

Rehabilitation wards for the last 8 years

eMeds or electronic medication management hasbeen successfully operating for 8 years in the AgedCare and Rehabilitation wards of Concord Hospital.With the Concord Centre for Mental Health goinglive in August 2014, 300 inpatient beds acrossthe two precincts now have their medications managedby eMeds.

Building on this success, an enhanced build that meets the needs of patients and clinicians beyondAged Care and Rehabilitation is being developed. Testing is currently underway. If you would like to be involved please contact the project.

This enhanced build will be rolled out in mid-2015. To get ready for this the hospital will be forming a series of implementation working groups in February 2015. If you would like to be a part of these work groupsor would like more information please contact timothy.morcombe@sswahs.nsw.gov.au or 9767 7372.

eMeds helps managemedications

After an eight year absence, Concord Hospital welcomes the return of Father Graeme Malone on campus as full-time Catholic Chaplain. During his timeaway at Mary MacKillop Place, Father Graeme has continued to be involved in the annual commemorativeservices at the Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway.His positive and caring approach has resulted in him developing a good rapport and mutual respectamongst members of our veteran community.

Father Graeme, together with Reverend Paul Weaver forms part of the Ecumenical Pastoral Care Department. Graeme looks forward to renewing his friendship with hospital staff, and continuing in working closely with chaplains and health professionals as a vital part of the healthcare offered to patients, staff and families in the fine tradition of more than70 years of Pastoral Care at Concord Hospital.

Concord welcomesthe return of FatherGraeme Malone, S.S.S.

Breaking the silence:Public health forum on asbestos

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I am persistent I am the pride of Concord

Concord Hospital undertook accreditation under the new EQuIP National Standard in September 2014. The hospital achieved excellent results with 19 Met with Merit (MM) and all other core standards Satisfactorily Met (SM) and only 6 developmentalNot Met (NM). The surveyors were justifiably generous in their praise of the services we provide, the good interdisciplinary working relationships and the strong governance that is in place. The following is a list of the 19 criteria that received a rating of Met with Merit:

1.2.1 Regular reports on safety and quality indicators and other safety and quality performance data are monitored by the executive level of governance

2.4..1 Consumers and/or carers provide feedback on patient information publications prepared by the health service organisation for distribution to patients

2.4.2 Action is taken to incorporate consumer and/or carers’ feedback into publications prepared by the health service organisation for distribution to patients

3.14.4 Action is taken to improve the effectiveness of antimicrobial stewardship

3.16.1 Compliance with relevant national or international standards and manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning, disinfection and sterilisation of reusable instruments and devices is regularly monitored

3.17.1 A traceability system that identifies patients who have a procedure using sterile reusable medical instruments and devices is in place

9.2.4 Action is taken to improve the responsiveness and effectiveness of the recognition and response systems

11.6.1 The organisation obtains demographic data to: Identify the diverse needs and diverse backgrounds of consumers / patients and carers Monitor and improve access to appropriate services Improve cultural competence, awareness and safety

11.7.1 Policies and procedures that consider cultural and spiritual needs are implemented to ensure that care, services and food are provided in a manner that is appropriate to consumers / patients with diverse needs and from diverse backgrounds

12.11.1 Policy and procedures for the management of consumer / patient end of life care are consistent with jurisdictional legislation, policy and common law are available and staff receive relevant education

12.12.1 Access to and effectiveness of end of life care is evaluated, including through the use of clinical review committees

15.8.1 The organisation has sound financial management processes that: - Are consistent with legislative and government requirements - Include budget development and review - Allocate resources based on service requirements identified in strategic and operational planning - Ensure that useful, timely and accurate financial reports are provided to the governing body and relevant managers - Include an external audit

15.10.1 The systems that: - Determines what research requires ethical approval - Oversees the ethical conduct of organisational research - Monitors the completion of required reporting - Is evaluated, and improved as required

15.10.2 consumers and researchers work in partnership to make decisions about research priorities, policy and practices

15.11.1 Systems are implemented to effectively govern research through policy / guidelines consistent with: - Jurisdictional legislation - Key NHMRC statements - Codes of conduct - Scientific review standards

15.11.2 The governance of research through: - Documented accountability and responsibility - Establishing formal agreements with collaborating agencies - Adequately resourcing the organisation’s human research ethics committee (HREC), where applicable - Is evaluated, and improved as required

15.24.1 The waste and environmental management system is evaluated to ensure that it includes: - Development and implementation of policy - Coordination with external authorities - Staff instruction and provision of information on their responsibilities

15.25.1 Controls are implemented to manage: - Identification - Handling - Separation and segregation - Of clinical, radioactive, hazardous and non-clinical waste, and the controls are evaluated, and improved as required

15.26.1 The systems to: - Increase the efficiency of energy and water use - Improve environmental sustainability - Reduce carbon emissions - Is evaluated, and improved as required

This was a fantastic result and it was through great team work and dedication from all staff that the organisation was able to achieve this result. Congratulations to all staff. A copy of the final report will be provided to all heads of departments and will be available on the Quality & Safety Intranet page, when available. If you require further information or have any questions regarding the report, please do not hesitate to contact Breda Doyle, Clinical Quality and Risk Manager on 9767 7095.

EQuIP nationalaccreditation results

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On 19 November 2014 EnvironmentalServices held their first RecognitionDay. The purpose of the day was torecognise the hard work and valuable contribution Environmental Servicesprovide to the hospital.

The day allowed staff to cometogether as a group and participatein a range of different contests. Therewere a number of participants for eachactivity and the overall winners were:  

•The Great Throne Game and winner of the inaugural Concord Cleaners’ Cup – Thivie Thriuchchelvam

•WheelchairObstacleRace– Bela Simone

•Best Dressed PPE –  Analan Bremner

•Naming of Mascot - Sarah Malis, for her winning entry that Concord Hospital is keeping it clean with Pristine (the penguin mascot)

The recognition day signified the hardwork from all parties of theCollaboration of Excellence Project.The hospital joined with BD, 3M, Baxter,the Clinical Excellence Commission(CEC) and the Agency for ClinicalInnovation (ACI).  

Cleaning and portering patients aretwo of the most important activities undertaken in the hospital. Whilsteveryone has a role in keeping thehospital clean, Evironmental Services staff are observed by our patients andvisitors as being responsible for itsoverall cleanliness and tidiness upkeep.

Concord gets clean with Pristine

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I am the pride of ConcordOpera night at Rivendell The stage was set for Friday evening’s opera and fine dining affair, held as a separate event to Saturday evening’soutdoor performance. Guests were treated to not only a wonderful dinner, but also an intimate and exhilarating recital in the Great Hall.

Soprano Kathryn Zerk and tenor Warren Fisher performed excerpts from a variety of operas ranging fromLa Boheme to Gianni Schicchi, accompanied by pianist Grace Kim and cellist Teije Hylkema.  

Stormy weather failed to dampen the spirits of opera night’s avid fans and the Saturday evening event treatedpatrons to the toe-tapping sounds of the Ambulance Service of NSW Stage Band, followed by a select operaprogram which included Marriage of Figaro overture by Mozart, Hungarian Dance no. 5 by Brahms,Puccini’sToscaandVerdi’sLaTraviata.

As always thanks to our sponsors Canada Bay Club, Tintilla Estate, City of Canada Bay, Raine and Horne Concord,Gospel Pianos and Print Rite. All funds raised over the two day event will go towards the Concord Centre forPalliative Care.

Further information about Opera Night at Rivendell can be found by visiting the website www.operanightatrivendell.com.au

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I am caring

Once every year, the hospital pays tribute to the many volunteers who giveof their time to help smooth the journey of patients and visitors tothe hospital.

Their duties include escorting patients, photocopying, laminating andother administrative functions, market day, guiding school and tour groups, driving the courtesy cart and numerous other acts of kindness.

Speaking on the occasion, Director of Nursing Sharne Hogan paid tribute to their service, which she described as indispensable tothe running of the hospital. The Sunset Singers, led by Rick Strattenand choir of Concord Hospital, which counts a fair number of volunteersamongst them, sang carols at the lunch bringing a note of Christmas cheerto the event.

The luncheon also provided an opportunity for the hospital toacknowledge International Day of People with Disability, with the cuttingof a celebratory cake.

Volunteer appreciation luncheon

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I am the pride of ConcordI am caring

On the 17th of October the Sydney Local Health District(SLHD) successfully hosted its biannual Education Day.Our impressive education centre auditorium was fullto capacity with 125 podiatrists representing the publicand private sector from across NSW as well as some of our nursing colleagues. The event was free for SLHD staff along with our invited Sydney South West LHDcolleagues.

The program was diverse, with topics ranging frompaediatric management, the benefits of podiatricmanagement in renal patients, orthopaedic intervention in wound management and recent research projectsbeing undertaken by our SLHD, all of which were aimedat providing insight into the range of challenges that health practitioners meet every day in practice. To furthersupport this there was an emphasis on the practical application of evidence based-medicine used in the SLHD. Rebekah En, Anita Hood and Stephania Penkala, memorably demonstrated child milestones with practical demonstrations, which was as humorous as it wasinstructive. Daniel Raffael and Angus Brewin presenteda master class in footwear options for complex footdeformities where delegates were introduced to newconcepts and reminded of old techniques to helpand manage our patients more effectively.

The calibre of speakers was also a great representation of the expertise SLHD has to offer, Prof Twigg, Dr Mark

Horsley, Dr Shaundeep Sen, Dr S Gupta, and Ms JanetteFranklin, just to name a few are all internationallyrecognised and generously gave their time to our event. The delegates appreciated the broad scope, as onedelegate said “I work as a community podiatrist inMerrylands CHC and found the whole conferenceinteresting and relevant… I do not work with children in my current role but I really appreciated the variety of your speakers topics and the inclusion of this aspect of our profession”. Support from the following organisationsincluded: Paterson Medical, Pharmco, Ego and AthletesFoot exhibiting new products with samples andinformation.

The occasion also brought together podiatristsrepresenting the Inner West Medicare Local and SLHD podiatrists (Sarah Stubbs, Angus Brewin and DirectorVanessa Nube) for a breakfast meeting to discuss ournewly released referral pathways. All parties found that the meeting illustrated that the pathways would developand support stronger ties between the hospital and private practice and would have a positive impacton patient outcomes.

The day ended in the relaxed atmosphere at Briars at Greenlees sporting club where networking opportunitieswere explored, old friends and colleagues were able to“chew the fat” and plans for Podiatry Education Day2016 were made.

Podiatry education day 2014

Thank you to our donors - Rhodes Multicultural Community Association (RMCA) for their fundraising efforts of $5 000, raised at the recent Rhodes Moon Festival celebrations. The Association was established from a group of women who met informally for over a year, exercising and dancing together. They have been instrumental in establishing a community organisation that celebrates and brings together diverse cultures to create a sense of community through events, dance and hosting language courses.

- NSW Chemists’ Golf Club for their fundraising efforts of $20,000 towards the Burns Unit, from monies raised at their recent annual Charity Golf Day.

We thank them sincerely for their generous support. Mayor Angelo Tsirekas, City of Canada Bay (L) and Marketing Director Alice Kang (R) with RMCA Secretary Yuehan Hang (centre) and association members.

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I believe in sharing

The University of Sydney Faculty of Pharmacy recently held the inaugural Hospital Pharmacy Student conference for final year Master of Pharmacy students at Concord Hospital. The conference was designed for students to expand their practicalexperience of working in hospitals as a pharmacistwith important insights into how the health system works.The conference included an overview of the role of a hospital pharmacist and a tour of Concord Hospital.

The 36 final year students who attended the conferenceparticipated in interactive sessions related to thecomplexity of medication management, medicationsafety, chart reviews, Antimicrobial Stewardship andmedication reconciliation in the hospital. The event allowed students to participate in “Grand Rounds”of the hospital led by the Pharmacy Department,focussing on recent medication incidents andmedicines safety.

The attendees learnt from clinical case studypresentations and interactive workshops and engaged in practising clinical scenarios. As part of theconference attendees were split into small groups, and guided by Pharmacy Department staff were ableto have an emersion hospital pharmacy experienceon different wards and area of practice within thehospital. This provided students a first-hand accountof the role of the hospital pharmacy and howmedicines are managed with the health system.

A highlight of the two-day conference was theopportunity to visit the simulation laboratory in theConcord Medical Education Centre. In the clinicalsimulations, students were actively involved in scenariosthat could occur in a pharmacy setting such asmanaging an epileptic seizure, using an adrenalineauto-injector in the setting of anaphylaxis and training in resuscitation and the use of a defibrillator.

The conference was a huge success and feedbackfrom the students has been very positive, in particular the practical experience working with ‘Simon the SimMan’ in the simulation lab and participating in hospitalrounds on the wards being particular highlights.

Professor Andrew McLachlan, Professor of Pharmacy(Aged Care) at Concord Hospital, convener of the eventsaid “This conference was a fantastic way to provideour students with a unique insight into and experienceof hospital pharmacy. The conference provided studentswith a detailed view of how a hospital pharmacistinteracts with patients on a daily basis but also importantly, how that role interacts with the broader healthsystem.”

The Faculty of Pharmacy were most grateful toRosemary Burke, Director of Pharmacy at ConcordHospital, and her staff in the Pharmacy Departmentfor their generous support and active participationin the inaugural pharmacy student conference.

Planning is underway for the Hospital PharmacyStudent conference in 2015.

1. Clinical simulation expert, Toni Cavalletto guides students through the clinical simulation2. Students gain insight and wisdom from local hospital pharmacy experts, Rosemary Burke, Joana Tsang and Stuart Binns

Inaugural student hospitalpharmacy conference a success

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DATE EVENT VENUE CONTACT Friday 20 February Continuous Service Awards Conference Rooms 1 and 2 Peta Macfarlane 9767 6038 Friday 6 March Trivia Night Concord RSL IND Committee Friday 20 March Harmony Day On the Green Peta Macfarlane 9767 8488 Saturday 11 April Kapyong Service 113th AGH Memorial Chapel Alice Kang 9767 8488 Sunday 19 April Centenary Anzac Day Dawn Service Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway Alice Kang 9767 8488 Sunday 19-30 April Centenary Anzac Exhibition Conference Rooms 1 and 2 Alice Kang 9767 8488 Friday 1 May International Secretaries’ Day Conference Rooms 1 and 2 Alice Kang 9767 8488 Tuesday 12 May Centaur Service 113th AGH Memorial Chapel Alice Kang 9767 8488 Tuesday 12 May International Nurses’ Day On the Green IND Committee Saturday 15 August VP Day Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway Alice Kang 9767 8488 Wednesday 19 August Vietnam Veterans Day 113th AGH Memorial Chapel Alice Kang 9767 8488 Tuesday 25-28 August Concord Clinical Week Concord Medical Education Centre Winston Cheung 9767 6221 Thursday 10 September Spring Markets On the Green Melissa Puglisi 9767 7560 Friday 9 October Veteran Health Day Conference Rooms Alice Kang 9767 8488 Tuesday 3 November Kokoda Day Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway Alice Kang 9767 8488 Wednesday 11 November Remembrance Day Service 113th AGH Memorial Chapel Alice Kang 9767 8488 Friday 4 December Volunteers Appreciation Lunch Conference Rooms 1 and 2 Melva Lindley 9767 5256 Thursday 10 December Christmas Markets On the Green Melissa Puglisi 9767 7560 Wednesday 16 December Staff BBQ On the Green Peta Macfarlane 9767 6038

Calendar of Events 2015

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I believe in sharing

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I am dedicated

Wednesday 15 October was Ride2Work day, a national event which encourages workers to try the health,financial and environmental benefits of commuting towork by bike.

Due to inclement weather, unfortunately the lunchtime ‘Tour de Concord’ ride for staff was cancelled however registered riders were still able to partake in the catered lunch. The rain failed to dampen the spirits of the36 riders, who requested for the ‘Tour de Concord’ lunchtime ride to be rescheduled to another date (Friday 7 November).

Concord staff get on their bikes

Concordians enjoy an eveningwith old colleagues and friends

Friday 21 November saw old co-workers and friends catch up for an evening of fun and nostalgia at the annual Concordians dinner.

Guest speaker for the evening, The Hon John Fahey, President I.O.C Anti-Doping Commission, regaled the audience with tales of doping indiscretions amongstour sporting elite. He also shed an insider’s light onSydney’s memorable 2000 Olympics bid and humorously described his heroic actions in saving HRH Prince Charles during the Royal visit whilst reigning as NSW Premier.

Guests were delighted when on behalf of the Chevalier College, Mr Fahey presented his friend and former school mate, Concordians President Professor Peter Haertsch with the Chevalier Medal for his generous support towards his alma mater.

The Concordians Association would like to encourageall Concord staff to become a member. One of the keyaims of the Concordians is to fundraise for ConcordHospital. Annual membership is $5 and membership forms are available from the Marketing Department or on 9767 6038.

The Hon John Fahey presents his former school mate ConcordiansPresident Professor Peter Haertsch with the Chevalier Medal C

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I am dedicated I am the pride of Concord

In August, finalists in the 2014 Concord Hospital Early Career Researcher Prize presented their research work to an audience of their peers and judges. This annual award recognises young researchers early in their research career and is judged in each of three categories: Early Career Researcher (non-student); Student Researcher (Postgraduate) and Student Researcher (Undergraduate). The award is supported by the Concord Hospital Research Committee, the Concord Hospital Medical Staff Council and theANZAC Research Institute, with prizes of $1000 to the winners in each of the three categories.

A record number of entries were received this year, an indicator of the extent and breadth of research at Concord Hospital. The hospital’s major areas of research interest were well represented, with entries reflecting the focus on research into colorectal surgery, cardiology, bone biology, inflammatory bowel disease, andrology and burns to name a few.

The Early Career Researcher (Student category) was judged by Professor Emmanuel Stamatakis, Professor of Exercise and Sport Sciences at the Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney. The prize in the

postgraduate student category was won by ChrisNaoum, a Concord cardiologist and a PhD student. Chris was awarded for his work into the factors underlying breathlessness and exercise impairment in patients with large hiatus hernia. The prize in the undergraduate student category was won by RosyWang, a 4th year medical student at Concord Clinical School. Rosy undertook a large review of the records of patients with Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC), a chronic disease commonly associated with Inflammatory Bowel Disease. She collected data on symptoms, treatment and outcomes for more than 200 patients with the disease.

Dr Konstantin Horas was awarded the prize for Early Career Researcher in the non-student category. Konstantin is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Bone Biology Research Group at the ANZAC Research Institute. The group is working on the factors underlying the mechanisms of breast cancer metastasising to bone. Konstantin’s work has shown that human breast cancercellswhicharelackingthereceptorforVitaminD have a greater potential to metastasise or spreadto bone.

Concord Hospital early careerresearcher prize

“Crohn’s women prone to complications” says Professor Rupert Leong,Head of Endoscopy at Concord HospitalA study led by Professor Rupert Leong of Concord Hospital and presented at the Australian Gastroenterology Week Conference, found women with Crohn’s disease had significantly worse results than men. The study followed more than 1,400 patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) for an average of nine years. Complications from the disease, including strictures that can lead to bowel obstruction, and fistulas or abscesses, developed in 27.4 percent of women compared to 16.6 per cent of men. 

According to Professor Leong, young women are also facing some of the toughest decisions about managing life with the chronic illness - including whether or not to have children.  “We are aware that young women

considering pregnancy will sometimes stop their medications because of concern about possible harm to their baby. What they really need to do is to stay on their IBDmedications to keep the disease at bay.”

“Most IBD medications aren’t harmful to the foetusand with close monitoring, we are seeing really goodpregnancyoutcomes,”headded.IBD, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, affects about 75,000 Australians. 

Our congratulations to Dr Ken Liu, Gastroenterology Advanced Trainee, for receiving a Distinction, and being selected as winner of the Poster (clinical) category at the Australian Gastrointestinal Week Conference 2014.

Finalists in the Concord Early Career Researcher Prize (Student category). From left to right: Rosy Wang; Paul Lunney; Professor Emmanuel Stamatakis (Judge); Chris Naoum, Vincent Chow and Naseem Mirbagheri

Finalists in the Concord Early Career Researcher Prize (Non-Student category). From left to right: Konstantin Horas; Jinwen Tu, Sepehr Lajevardi and Royston Ponraj

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Otto Steen, the creator of the ‘Concord Lion’ was born in Denmark in 1902 and trained in sculpture at Royal Danish Academy of Art with Prof Einar Utzon-Frank (Uncle of Mr Jorn Utzon, architect of the Sydney Opera House). He migrated to Australia in 1927 and attended the East Sydney Technical College, Darlinghurst (now known as the National Art School).

Here Otto was to come under the influence and tutelage of the charismatic English-born sculpture teacher, (George) Rayner Hoff. Hoff was the creator of multiple award-winning and prominent sculptures including Sydney University Physics Building’s “famous scientist    bronzes”,andtheoriginalSulmanMedal.

From I930 to 1934 Otto worked as assistant to Hoff on sculptures for the ANZAC Memorial in Hyde Park, Sydney. The lion and stone sculpture for the Holden car company (the basis for the original Holden car logo), was still being created at the East Sydney Technical College by Hoff, when Steen enrolled there as hisstudent.

The first commission of the firm Stephenson and Turner (S&T) one of most prolific, modernist Australian architectural firms of the 20th Century awarded to them by Dr Herbert Schlink, hospital chairman, gynaecologist andsculptureenthusiast,wastheKingGeorgeV(KGV)Hospital for Mothers and Babies at RPAH.

The firm arranged for several sculptors to create permanent artworks for the building. One sculptor was Otto Steen. He created 2 sets of both large and small

terracotta wall sculpture with motherand baby themes.  S&T won the SulmanMedal for Public Architecture in 1941 for KGV.  (1,2,3)        

S&T were also awarded the tender in 1940 for the design of the Yaralla Military /113th General Hospital, with building firm F.T. Eastment & Sons.  This too, won the firm the Sir John Sulman Medal for Public Architecture in 1946.

At the time of completion, each of these buildings had a large 3D ceramic wall sculpture - nurse, doctor, coal man, laundry worker - each dynamically depicting theexact purpose of the building.  The largest sculpture, high on the western side of the main stairwell tower of Building 5 depicts a vigilant-looking lion with a Southern Cross and Red Cross, all created by Otto Steen. (4)                                                                                                             

Steen was known to use more famous works as his inspiration, and the main Yaralla/Concord sculpture was no exception. These appear to have been the world renowned Art Deco, Egyptian style Wembley lion of the 1924 British Empire Exhibition, and also the lion sculpture created in 1927-1928 by his mentor, Rayner Hoff.

It is highly probable that the Concord Hospital wall sculpture logo had a highly personal meaning for Steen, both as a tribute and memorial to his late mentor Rayner Hoff who died at the early age of 43.

* This article is a condensed version of information kindly sourced by Dr Penny Spring, a keen ConcordHospital historian.References:1.  Fisher JD. “Stephenson, Sir Arthur George (1890–1967)”. Australian Dictionary of Biography. Online. Retrieved 25/10/142. Goad P, Wilken R & Willis J. Australian Modern. The Architecture of Stephenson & Turner. State Library of Victoria 2004.3. Willis, Julie. “King George V Memorial Hospital”  in Sydney Architecture. Online.  Retrieved 26/10/144. Scarlett, Ken.  “Hoff, Rayner” (pp 260-77) and “Steen, Otto Lundbye” (pp 605-6) in Australian Sculptors. Nelson 1980.

Historical facts: Architecture,art and the Concord Hospital lion

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I am driven I am the pride of Concord

Concord Hospital continued its tradition of supporting veteransandwarwidowsbyhostingaVeterans’HealthDay with a series of presentations and information stands.

Federal Member for Reid, Mr Craig Laundy MP and representing the Deputy Commissioner, Department of Veterans’Affairs,MrEffieCauchibothofficiallyopenedproceedings, emphasising the importance of feelingvalued and making the most of life.

More than 100 attendees listened intently as Award-winning endocrinologist Professor Markus Siebel began the presentations with the encouraging news that osteoporosis was a disease that could be treated and prevented. Professor David Le Couteur provided useful information on how to avoid dementia, while Professor Andrew McLachlan spoke about medicine myths and interaction with herbal medicine. Col Professor Robert Lusby gave guests a personal insight into his Rwanda experience during his time spent in the Royal Australian Army Medical Corps.

Guests were treated to a buffet luncheon, proudly sponsored by Burwood RSL and entertained by the soothing sounds of the Sunset Singers and Concord Choir.

As a result of the many positive comments received, the event will continue to be included on the Hospital’s annual calendar of events for next year.

Veterans health day

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I value innovation

On the 3rd of November 1942, the Australian flag was raised on the Kokoda Plateau to celebrate a victory snatched from possible defeat. Kokoda veterans Reg Chard and Ray Gentles, formerly of the 55th and 53rd Battalion respectively, re-enacted the flag raising at the Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway on Monday 3 November 2014 to mark Kokoda Day.

The commemorative address was delivered by The Hon Charlie Lynnn MLC, Parliamentary Secretary for Veterans’Affairs.MrBillHarrigan,RSLStateCouncillorrecited the ode. Our thanks to Mr Kent Maddock, for the moving tenor solos and the NSW Corrective Services Band for their accompaniment.

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I value innovation I am the pride of ConcordRemembrance day

We are the Dead. Short days agoWe lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,Loved and were loved, and nowwe lie in Flanders fields.

John McCrae was serving as a Major and amilitary doctor and second in command of the 1st Brigade Canadian Field Artillery when his dear friend, a young Canadian artillery officer, Lieutenant Alexis Helmer was killed. As the brigade doctor, Mr McCrae was asked to conduct the burial service for Lieutenant Helmer - as the chaplain had been called away on duty. Deeply moved by the death, John wrote the poemthatbecamefamousas“InFlandersFields”,sung so poignantly by the Meriden Singers at theRemembrance Day service, held in the Concord Hospital 113th AGH Chapel on 11th November.

The service marked the 96th anniversary of the armistice which ended World War 1. Rev. John Sanderson, Chaplain, Australian Regular Army delivered the commemorative address. The service was led by Rev. Paul Weaver and Fr Graeme Malone, chaplains at Concord Hospital.

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