SDHB celebrates its staff
The Southern District Health Board have honoured members of its staff at this year’s Southern Excellence Awards.
The event was held last night at Otago Polytechnic Hub, in Dunedin, and Bill Richardson Transport Museum, in Southland, simultaneously.
Southland Hospital’s general surgery clinical associate professor Dr Konrad Richter was named the joint recipient for the Breaking Boundaries award, along with Dunedin Hospital rheumatology specialist Jo Mitchell.
Southern DHB chief executive Chris Fleming said the award recognised individuals or teams that had broken boundaries through working in partnership with primary and community providers, and external stakeholder organisations.
Richter had worked to develop clinical and academic partnerships between Southland Hospital and the University of Otago, Fleming said.
He was also been involved with organising free public lectures
hosted at Southland Hospital.
Southland Hospital colorectal clinical nurse specialist Kim Snoep was named the winner of the Outstanding Care and Contribution award.
Snoep received the award for going the extra mile for patients and carers, Fleming said.
Snoep was described as an innovator having set up a ‘‘colorectal whiteboard’’ that revolutionised the tracking of patients through the department, ensuring they get timely tests and treatment.
DHB southern medical officer of health Susan Jack was the recipient of the Graham Crombie Outstanding Leadership Award.
Jack’s leadership had been instrumental in ensuring significant outbreaks in the southern district, such as measles and Covid-19, had been contained and not escalated to a point of widespread uncontrolled community outbreaks, Fleming said.
‘‘She takes an evidence-based approach and continues to provide clear direction and guidance.’’
The awards were about acknowledging staff and the roles they played in providing care and support across the southern health system, Fleming said. ‘‘2020 has been an extraordinary year for everyone, especially those working in health. [This year’s] nominees come from across our diverse teams and include leaders, clinical staff, technicians, carers and change-makers.’’