John Wsol, Lead Pharmacist for Education at Calvary Public Hospital, was named the 2021 ACT Allied Health Professional of the Year today for his work achieving high-quality learning environments and patient outcomes.
Mr Wsol received the honour at the annual Allied Health Professional of the Year and ACT Allied Health Excellence Awards, which celebrate the outstanding contribution of exceptional and outstanding individuals and teams in the ACT public sector.
The awards are presented on International Allied Health Professionals Day, which in the ACT celebrates the achievements of the more than 1,800 allied health professionals who work in the Territory’s public health system.
“They are highly valued, and play a key role in providing therapeutic, scientific, and person-centred care to the Canberra community,” said Health Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith.
“The Awards highlight the breadth and depth of allied health, and the commitment of allied health professionals to clinical excellence, research, innovation and teamwork.”
Mr Wsol was also the winner of the individual Allied Health Education Excellence category, recognising his responses to complex clinical challenges.
“John Wsol is an outstanding Educator who demonstrates a creative approach to ensure education is engaging and meets the needs of learners,” Ms Stephen-Smith said.
Because of COVID-19 restrictions, this year’s awards were presented in a virtual ceremony.
Andrew Slattery, Canberra Health Services, received the award for Allied Health Management and Leadership Excellence.
“Andrew continuously role-models high-level respect for the cultural beliefs and practices of consumers and staff, which has resulted in achieving innovative and inclusive initiatives at Canberra Health Services.”
Renata Kiss, Canberra Health Services, received the award for Allied Health Clinical Excellence.
“Renata contributes significant innovations to the development of new health service initiatives. Renata has demonstrated leadership in implementing and sustaining the Strengthening Health Responses to Family Violence (SHRFV) program at Canberra Health Services during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
The Strengthening Health Responses to Family Violence Team, Canberra Health Services, received the award for Allied Health Team Excellence.
“The SHRV team has developed, implemented, and evaluated an innovative program to manage health responses to family violence, requiring significant training and practice change. The team is recognised for collaboratively creating an inclusive and engaging learning environment for a complex and sensitive topic that is based on best practice.”
Laura Triggs, Canberra Health Services, received the award for Allied Health Early Career Excellence.
“Laura demonstrates initiative in leading innovative projects and activities to promote the Pharmacy profession, contribute to the care of vulnerable groups, and in promoting Canberra Health Services as an employer of choice. Laura’s commitment to innovation shows the incredible value of Early Career health professionals to our health services in the ACT.”
The First Nations Menu Team, Canberra Health Services, received the award for Allied Health Excellence in Provision of Services to Improve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health and Wellbeing. They designed a culturally sensitive food menu across Canberra Health Services.
“Team members are recognised for their ongoing collaborative engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander consumer representatives to ensure respect for culture and connection with food and health.”
Rosalyn Stanton, Canberra Health Services, received the award for Allied Health Research Excellence.
“Rosalyn is recognised for innovation in practice, directly through evidence-based practice and indirectly through providing professional development and growth opportunities for staff and students.”
Carol Manga, Canberra Health Services, received the award for Allied Health Assistant Excellence.
“Carol demonstrates excellence by using innovative, equitable, and creative ways to engage personally and respectfully with clients, build rapport and trust, provide tangible support, and develop an effective therapeutic relationship with consumers.”
