With the new year in full swing, the North West Hospital and Health Service (HHS) is seeking community volunteers who are passionate about improving healthcare standards and want to make a real contribution to the future growth of health services in the North West.

The Mount Isa Hospital Auxiliary and the North West Consumer Advisory Groups are seeking fresh perspective from community members to improve health services.

These groups are the perfect opportunity for community members to voice their opinion and provide vital intel on community needs.

The Mount Isa Hospital Auxiliary is a registered charity, playing a vital role in raising funds for essential equipment that enhances the experience for patients and staff across hospital wards.

From suppling cots and beds for the Paediatrics Ward to creating comfortable spaces for dementia patients and supporting the Midwifery Group, the Auxiliary’s contributions have a direct and positive impact on the hospital community.

Treasurer Lisa Mihajlovic, a proud auxiliary member for over 12 years, says the Mount Isa Hospital Auxiliary isn’t just for seasoned volunteers but for members of all ages and backgrounds.

“Being part of the Auxiliary is a wonderful way to give back to the community. Every contribution we make directly improves the quality of care for patients,” said Ms Mihajlovic.

For any community members interested in joining the Mount Isa Hospital Auxiliary, or anyone wanting more information, contact Liz Lee at 4744 4469 or email Elizabeth.Lee@health.qld.gov.au.

Similarly, the Consumer Advisory Groups play a vital role in the North West HHS’s ability to continue providing high quality health care; by partnering with consumers and the community to ensure each Hospital and Health Service can provide the right care, at the right place, at the right time.

The Consumer Advisory Groups are a unique opportunity to speak directly with executive team members and hospital staff about service delivery and collective requirements for each facility.

Each facility has its own Consumer Advisory Group to ensure an accurate depiction of community needs.

Executive Director First Nations Health Christine Mann said this is an exciting time to join the consumer advisory groups as existing members look to warmly welcome new volunteers.

“We know healthcare is better when we talk to our patients, consumers, and community,” said Ms Mann.

“We currently have a number of consumer groups with vacancies, so we are seeking further passionate individuals with recent experiences in using the health services to register and get involved to help design and deliver better hospital services.”

For more information on joining a Consumer Advisory Group for your community, contact nwhhs.engagement@health.qld.gov.au.

North West HHS looks forward to welcoming new community members to our volunteer and consumer groups as their experience and knowledge will be invaluable for the future of healthcare in the North West.