General News
1 June, 2024
GH plans for equitable and safe care
Grampians Health has launched its inaugural reconciliation action plan, formalising a framework for providing culturally safe and equitable care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Acting CEO Ben Kelly said the plan was key to Grampians Health’s vision for being an innovative, progressive and trusted leader in regional and rural care.
“Reconciliation is a shared responsibility for all Australians, and our reconciliation action plan showcases our commitment to going beyond symbolic gestures,” Mr Kelly said.
“This plan defines the steps we’re going to take as an organisation to deliver meaningful and substantial change for First Nations care recipients, families and staff.
“As a public health service provider we're committed to improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and key to this is providing comprehensive healthcare that meets individual needs closer to home and Country.”
Strengthening relationships with First Nations communities to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices are heard and embedded in Grampians Health’s strategic goals and objectives is at the heart of the plan.
Grampians Health chief of strategy and regions Dr Rob Grenfell said the plan was an integral step towards reconciliation for the organisation.
“Our vision is for Grampians Health to be a place where First Nations people know they are valued as individuals and that their rich and diverse heritage, culture, and spirituality is respected and celebrated,” Dr Grenfell said.
“The reconciliation action plan is built on improving relationships, respecting the importance of cultural identity and providing opportunities for First Nations peoples, organisations and communities.
“We endeavour to serve our communities on a deeper level, and creating opportunities for First Nations people and business operators to engage with Grampians Health will help achieve this.”