North West Hospital and Health Service (HHS) staff member Helen Bailey has been announced as a successful recipient of a $20,000 grant for research focused on using virtual reality to increase the effectiveness of delivering maternity care in rural and remote Queensland.

The Queensland Health Clinical Research Fellowships, valued at a total of $2.731 million, have been awarded to 18 clinicians researched across various medical, nursing and allied health fields.

Health Service Chief Executive said it was wonderful to see Ms. Bailey supported in her pursuit of a critical research project aimed at improving health outcomes for rural and remote communities.

“I would like to congratulate Ms. Bailey on this wonderful achievement,” Mr. Birgan said.

“The healthcare needs in rural and remote areas like the North West are continually evolving, and the innovation of virtual reality in education is promising for regions like ours.”

Ms. Bailey, Director of Nursing Relief Coordinator Remote Facilities for North West HHS said she was delighted to be awarded the grant.

“We know that rural and remote areas often face unique healthcare disparities, including limited access to services, so this grant will further support the important work to improve maternity care in our communities,” Ms. Bailey said.

“By harnessing the potential of virtual reality technology, this project aims to improve maternity education and training, ensuring that healthcare professionals in these communities are better prepared to provide high-quality care to expectant mothers.”

Ms. Bailey’s research project is in partnership with Central Queensland University and the University of the Sunshine Coast.