Medical Practitioner Updates

Welcome to the June edition of the Medical Practitioner Update.

As we head into winter and the ski season opening over the long weekend, bringing an increase in visitors across our region, it’s a timely reminder of the ongoing demand on our services and the importance of continuing to strengthen our workforce.

We've recently stepped up our medical recruitment efforts, launching a targeted ‘Come to Southern’ campaign with BMJ Careers to promote roles across the District, and attending the Rural Generalist Engagement and Networking Conference (RGEN26) in Wagga Wagga to connect directly with trainees and experienced rural generalists.

These activities are about getting in front of the right candidates and building a clearer pipeline into our services. We're also working towards the restructure of the Medical Workforce Unit to better support managers and clinicians. If you know someone who may be a good fit for Southern, please refer them to our Medical Workforce Unit so we can follow up.

Our May newsletter reached 391 people and was opened by 157 readers - that’s about 40% of our audience. If you’d prefer to receive these updates at a different email address, you can subscribe here.

Raise It | Early results and a quick check of your department

• The Raise It public awareness campaign launched in late March 2026, replacing the former REACH escalation process.
• At Southern, calls to the statewide Raise It number are routed to the District Patient Flow Unit (DPFU), which records concerns in the eMR and supports timely clinical review.
• Early feedback shows the single statewide number is helping patients, carers and families feel more confident to speak up. Thank you to medical officers for responding promptly to Raise It escalations and supporting timely assessment and clear communication.
• When contacted by the DPFU, sites should close the loop by confirming outcomes to ensure concerns are fully documented and avoid unnecessary follow‑up.
• Please check your areas to ensure patient‑facing materials are up to date; remove outdated collateral. Contact the Communications team if you need updated Raise It materials or replacements

Visit NSW Health | Raise It

Hands-on Implanon training coming to Bega

• Hands-on LARC training workshop (Implanon NXT insertion and removal) will be held in Bega on Wednesday 12 August 2026, 9:30 am to 12:30 pm (venue confirmed after registration)
• Delivered by Family Planning NSW as part of its clinician education program to improve access to contraception across Southern NSW
• Open to medical practitioners, registered nurses, midwives, nurse practitioners, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners
• Participants who complete the course will receive a Statement of Completion
• The course is RACGP CPD approved (3 hours Educational Activities and 3 hours Reviewing Performance)

Register via the FPNSW training hub

Join instructor-led eMR training

• June eMR training sessions (myHub login required) are available for staff across Southern NSW and Murrumbidgee Local Health Districts. 
• Instructor-led training runs each month, with self-paced options available anytime through My Health Learning. 
• Quick reference guides are available on the eMR myHub page (myHub login required) for step‑by‑step support for common tasks.
• Staff can use the GTrain environment to run local training sessions and demonstrations for new starters.
• For team support or tailored training, contact Damien Kennedy, eMR / eMeds Team Manager for SNSWLHD & MLHD.

Hospital in the Home expansion continues

• Phase 1 of Southern's Hospital in the Home (HITH) reform is complete, with services at Queanbeyan, Goulburn, Moruya and South East Regional Hospital now aligned to NSW policy, and supporting more patients to receive hospital-level care safely at home.
• Phase 2 is underway, expanding access to additional communities including Crookwell, Yass, Braidwood, Cooma, Jindabyne, Bombala and Delegate.
• The next phase will build multidisciplinary teams and new clinical pathways, including options for direct admission.
• This work aims to improve patient flow, reduce pressure on ED and inpatient services, and provide more care closer to home.
• Medical practitioners can refer or discuss transfers via the District Patient Flow Unit (1800 999 880)
• Contact Tracey Bates or Summa Stephens for further information or to discuss how HITH can support your patients and service.

Maternity unit video tours now available

• Improving patient information and preparedness is a key focus of the NSW response to the Select Committee on Birth Trauma.
• Southern has developed a series of maternity unit video tours to support this work. First introduced in Eurobodalla in 2022 during COVID‑19 visitor restrictions, the videos have now been expanded across the District.
• The videos help families become familiar with the care environment before admission. Women are also welcome to visit maternity units in person.
• Each tour includes a walkthrough of key clinical areas and introduces members of the multidisciplinary team.
• The Eurobodalla video will be updated following the opening of the new hospital.

Watch the video tours

Renew your Working With Children Check before it expires

• Working With Children Checks (WWCC) expire after 5 years.
• If you renew before expiry, you can complete the process online without visiting Service NSW. If your WWCC expires, you must renew in person at Service NSW.
• The Office of the Children’s Guardian is increasing compliance checks, with organisational fines of more than $11,000 per breach and potential reputational risk.
• Medical officers should renew early to avoid gaps, as a valid WWCC is mandatory for many roles. Medical officers and line managers receive email reminders as expiry approaches – please act on these. Service NSW also sends a renewal reminder 3 months before expiry.
• For information, visit the Office of the Children's Guardian website.

Marking 10 years of South East Regional Hospital

• Join us for lunch on Wednesday 30 September 2026 at South East Regional Hospital (SERH) to celebrate 10 years of care – all staff are welcome.
• The anniversary marks a decade since SERH opened, replacing Bega Hospital and becoming a key hub for healthcare in the region.
• If you have photos from Bega Hospital or the early days of SERH, please share them with the Communications team to help tell the story of the past 10 years.

Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan launched

• Southern launched our Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) in Goulburn on 1 June 2026.
• We acknowledge that historical barriers have impacted access to healthcare for many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and this RAP sets out our commitment to improving cultural safety, growing our Aboriginal workforce, and strengthening partnerships with communities.
• The RAP has been developed over 18 months with input from staff and Aboriginal communities. Our focus is to ensure every person feels respected, safe and supported, and receives high‑quality care.

Further information

I appreciate your feedback on these updates - what’s useful, what could be clearer, and what would make them more relevant to your practice. Please feel free to email SNSWLHD-EDMS@health.nsw.gov.au.

Medical Practitioner Update | 12 May 2026

Welcome to the May edition of the Medical Practitioner Update. This month we’re sharing key clinical and operational updates, along with resources designed to support your practice across Southern NSW.

Our April newsletter reached 384 people and was opened by 161 readers - that’s about 42% of our audience. If you’d prefer to receive these updates at a different email address, you can subscribe here.

Audit Office of New South Wales Report | Oversight of Visiting Medical Officers

You may have heard about an Auditor General’s report about the VMO oversight mechanisms across NSW Health. While it is a financial audit, it has implications for how it will affect VMOs in NSW (including in Southern).

There are recommendations that require:

• strengthening system-wide governance and assurance of VMO engagement and remuneration
• strengthening system-wide oversight of value for money considerations in VMO engagement and remuneration
• establishing and communicating minimum internal control requirements for LHDs in relation to VMO engagement and remuneration

The Ministry will respond to these recommendations and that will have implications for all LHDs. The report only got released last week, and we will await more information from the Ministry. The full report is available on the Audit Office of New South Wales site.

Please contact Lucy Duncan if you have any questions about the LHDs processes. 

Read the Audit Office of NSW report 

Visit HealthShare's VMO Payment Processing Hub 

Full report available | Medical Engagement Dinners

• In March, our Executive team hosted the first round of Medical Engagement Dinners for 2026 in Cooma (11 March), Goulburn (18 March), Queanbeyan (25 March), Moruya (31 March) and Bega (1 April)
• A full report is now available highlighting the key themes, and reporting feedback verbatim, from each dinner.
• Invitations have been sent out for a second round of Medical Engagement Dinners in September 2026, where we will report back on progress against issues raised and continue the conversation.

Strengthening ED training and workforce

• From 2027, the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine (ACEM), will require all ACEM trainees to do a rural term. To enable us to provide these terms, we are exploring opportunities to strengthen Emergency Departments through future ACEM accreditation and expanded workforce partnerships.
• This work is being led by Dr Gregory Hollis, District Medical Lead – Emergency Departments, who provides clinical leadership for emergency medicine across the district. All ED directors in the LHD are supportive of this initiative.
• Recent developments within the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine (ACEM), including a stronger focus on rural and regional training and new supervision models, have created a more favourable environment for regional EDs to participate in accredited training pathways.
• This work is at an early, exploratory stage and is focused on positioning our Emergency Departments for future training participation, workforce attraction and long‑term service sustainability. Further updates will be shared as planning progresses.

Hospital in the Home and Infusions: What you need to know

• We are continuing to expand and refine Hospital in the Home (HITH) and day‑only infusion and transfusion services, providing eligible patients with hospital‑level care in their home or residential aged care setting.
• Direct referrals from GPs and community providers are accepted, with access to daily medical review, multidisciplinary care, monitoring, medication administration and investigations. Referrals should be made via the SNSWLHD District Patient Flow Unit on 1800 999 880.
• Referral pathways for infusions and transfusions have changed at Moruya, South East Regional Hospital and Goulburn. Referrals should now be emailed to SNSWLHDCommunityIntake@health.nsw.gov.au with treatment details and relevant pathology (including iron studies where required)

Safe Haven Bega

• Safe Haven Bega is a calm, culturally-sensitive and non-clinical setting staffed by trained peer workers and mental health professionals to support people experiencing mental health distress. An alternative to the emergency department, Safe Haven has access to people who understand.
• Safe Haven Bega is located at 17 Bega Street, Bega and is open 7 days per week, 12pm midday to 7pm. Phone 6491 9214.
• Walk-ins welcome. Medicare card not required. Referrals not required.

Read more about Safe Havens →

Flu vaccination available on-site

• Under NSW Health Occupational Assessment, Screening and Vaccination (OASV) requirements, doctors are expected to receive their annual flu vaccination by 1 June. Influenza vaccination is strongly recommended ahead of peak winter activity to help protect patients, colleagues and yourself, particularly given increased respiratory illness across our region in winter.
• NSW Health‑employed doctors and VMOs can receive their flu vaccination on site through community nursing services.
• Each facility runs vaccination clinics slightly differently, so please check local posters and communications for details on how to book an appointment at your site. To access flu vaccination through these clinics, please bring your Medicare card.

Meet our Medical Officer of the Year Nominees

• This year marks the first time Medical Officer of the Year has been included as a category in the Southern NSW Excellence Awards, and I am pleased to see our medical colleagues recognised in this way.
• The nominees have been acknowledged for their outstanding contribution to patient care, teamwork, leadership and service across the district, reflecting the depth of commitment within our medical workforce.
• The Medical Officer of the Year winner will be announced at the Excellence Awards in Queanbeyan on 17 June, and we look forward to celebrating all nominees and the impact they have across Southern.
• 2026 Medical Officer of the Year Nominees
  • Dr Anindya Banerjee – Consultant Physician, Goulburn
  • Dr Arnab Banerjee – Director of Anaesthetics, Goulburn
  • Dr Bronwyn Henderson – Medical Officer, Emergency Department, Moruya
  • Dr James Blogg – Clinical Director, Alcohol and Other Drugs, Moruya
  • Dr Luke Mitchell – GP VMO, Moruya
  • Dr Marielle Ruigrok – Director of Emergency Medicine, Queanbeyan
  • Dr Nathan Oates – VMO Anaesthetist and Director of Prevocational Education and Training, SERH
  • Dr Nicole Maitin‑Casalis – FACEM, Emergency Department, Moruya
  • Dr Nicolie Regner – Staff Specialist Medical Oncologist, Moruya
  • Dr Pavan Bhandari – Clinical Director, Mental Health, Goulburn
  • Dr Swati Mahajan – Obstetrician, Goulburn
  • Dr Vimbai Kapuya – Rural Generalist, Yass

Book your ticket to attend

Further information

I would really value your feedback on these updates - what you find useful, what could be clearer, and what would make them more relevant to your practice.  Please feel free to email SNSWLHD-EDMS@health.nsw.gov.au or call me on 0434 163 938.

Medical Practitioner Update | 14 April 2026

Welcome to the April edition of the Medical Practitioner Update. This month we’re sharing key clinical and operational updates, along with resources designed to support your practice across Southern NSW.

Our March newsletter reached 381 people and was opened by 179 readers - that’s about 47% of our audience. If you’d prefer to receive these updates at a different email address, you can subscribe here.

Medical Engagement Dinners - what we heard

• In March, our Executive team hosted the first round of Medical Engagement Dinners for 2026 in Cooma (11 March), Goulburn (18 March), Queanbeyan (25 March), Moruya (31 March) and Bega (1 April)
• Doctors highlighted strong local culture, teamwork and commitment to community care, with positive feedback on emergency services, patient flow initiatives, virtual care, training programs and aspects of discharge communication.
• Common challenges raised across all locations included workforce shortages and reliance on locums, access to specialist services and diagnostics, theatre and waitlist pressures, and patient flow and aged care transitions.
• Doctors also emphasised the need for clearer referral pathways, more consistent communication between hospital services and primary care, and improved access to mental health, geriatric and allied health support.
• A second round of Medical Engagement Dinners is planned for September 2026, where we will report back on progress against issues raised and continue the conversation.

Welcoming Dr Jessica Smith, Medical Director Cancer Services

• We warmly welcome Dr Jessica Smith B Sci (Hons) MBBS (Hons) MMed, FRACP to Southern as our Medical Director of Cancer Services.

• Dr Smith is a medical oncologist and a member of several medical and oncology associations and societies. She has a strong interest in clinical trials, professional development, teaching, and leadership.
• Dr Smith trained in Western Sydney and has continued to work in the region, and more recently, has been covering oncology clinics within Southern NSW. Dr Smith is the current Treasurer of the Medical Oncology Group of Australia and previously served as the national chair of the Young Oncologist Group of Australia, a subgroup of the Medical Oncology Group of Australia, where she advocated for the needs and interests of young oncologists nationwide.
• Dr Smith believes in harnessing clinical trials and reviewing data to improve healthcare outcomes for cancer patients. She is also interested in improving the well-being of the medical oncology specialty and is a member of the Medical Oncology Workload and Workforce Group. As an active member of the Western Sydney University teaching team and the RACP examination committee, she is also passionate about improving oncology education for the next generation of doctors.
• When not working, Jess loves being an aunty, travelling, and regularly attends trivia evenings.

Read more about cancer services in Southern NSW →

Medical Workforce Unit restructure proposal

• We are consulting on a proposed restructure of the Medical Workforce Unit. The intention is to strengthen accountability, improve service navigation, and better support clinical services across the district.
• The proposed model introduces site‑based medical workforce teams, with central coordination and clearer local direction by Directors of Medical Services for recruitment, locums, onboarding, rostering and JMO coordination.
• Doctors are asked to review the proposed Medical Workforce Unit restructure and discuss it within their teams, including at the next Medical Staff Council (MSC) meeting or relevant site‑based forums. Feedback can be provided through these discussions or submitted directly in writing, and senior medical leaders are available to attend MSC or team meetings to discuss the proposal if helpful.
• All feedback is requested by 5pm on 23 April 2026. Written feedback should be emailed to claire.dutaillis@health.nsw.gov.au and SNSWLHD-EDMS@health.nsw.gov.au.
• Subject to consultation outcomes, implementation is planned to commence in late April or early May 2026.

Medicare Voluntary Compliance Notices – what you need to know

• The Australian Government has advised that Medicare Voluntary Compliance Notices may be issued where Medicare claims appear to have been submitted for services on dates when a provider was overseas. Under Medicare legislation, benefits are only payable for professional medical services delivered in Australia, and the notices are intended to prompt a review of claiming records rather than allege wrongdoing.
• Doctors who receive a notice may wish to review travel and clinical records, seek clarification from Medicare where needed, and submit voluntary corrections if errors are identified. This process provides an opportunity for practitioners to review billing practices and ensure ongoing compliance with Medicare requirements

Read more about Medicare compliance →

Flu vaccination available on-site

• Under NSW Health Occupational Assessment, Screening and Vaccination (OASV) requirements, doctors are expected to receive their annual flu vaccination by 1 June. Influenza vaccination is strongly recommended ahead of peak winter activity to help protect patients, colleagues and yourself, particularly given increased respiratory illness across our region in winter.
• NSW Health‑employed doctors and VMOs can receive their flu vaccination on site through community nursing services.
• Each facility runs vaccination clinics slightly differently, so please check local posters and communications for details on how to book an appointment at your site. To access flu vaccination through these clinics, please bring your Medicare card.

Read more about Medicare compliance →

Clinical Services Planning - Far South Coast update

• Southern NSW Local Health District is developing new Clinical Services Plans (CSPs) for the Eurobodalla and Bega Valley Local Government Areas, to guide the future clinical service profile for the Coastal Network.
• The Plans focus on what services are delivered, models of care, and the workforce and infrastructure needed to support safe and effective practice, including opportunities through virtual care, stronger primary care, shorter hospital stays and better support for care outside hospital settings.
• Since consultation began last month, the Health Service Planning team has attended community markets in Eurobodalla and held four face‑to‑face community engagement sessions in the Eurobodalla, with Bega Valley sessions planned shortly.
• With the Eurobodalla Regional Hospital approaching completion, clinician input remains critical to shaping service priorities, clinical pathways and future models of care across the Far South Coast.
• We encourage you to take part by completing the survey or reaching out to our planning team at SNSWLHD-Planning@health.nsw.gov.au.

Complete the Bega Valley LGA consultation survey →

Complete the Eurobodalla LGA consultation survey →

Read more about the Bega Valley and Eurobodalla Clinical Services Plans →

Enhanced AOD GP & Pharmacy Liaison Support

• Anthony (Tony) Ireson has commenced in a new district‑wide role as AOD GP & Pharmacy Liaison Coordinator, supporting GPs, hospital doctors and community pharmacies.
• The role focuses on improving coordination between general practice, hospitals, AOD services and pharmacies to support safer, more connected care for patients with alcohol and other drug needs.
• Tony can assist with referrals and care pathways, support for opioid treatment program patients, shared alcohol withdrawal (home detox) support, service navigation, and access to AOD Addiction Specialists and Nurse Practitioners.
• Tony will be visiting practices and services across the district over coming months to understand local needs and discuss how AOD services can support clinicians and their patients.

Read more about alcohol and other drugs services in Southern NSW →

Further information

As we head into winter, with the expected increase in respiratory illness and seasonal demand across our services, I want to acknowledge the additional pressure this can place on you and your teams. I am grateful for the skill, flexibility and teamwork you bring to supporting our communities during these busy months.

I would really value your feedback on these updates - what you find useful, what could be clearer, and what would make them more relevant to your practice.  Please feel free to email SNSWLHD-EDMS@health.nsw.gov.au or call me on 0434 163 938.

Medical Practitioner Update | 10 March 2026

Welcome to the March edition of the Medical Practitioner Update. This month we’re sharing key clinical and operational updates, along with resources designed to support your practice across Southern NSW.

Our February newsletter reached 315 people and was opened by 101 readers - that’s about 32% of our audience. If you’d prefer to receive these updates at a different email address, you can subscribe here.

Tax registration requirements for VMOs

NSW Health has introduced new tax requirements for Visiting Medical Officers (VMOs). From 10 February 2026, all VMOs must have a valid Australian Business Number (ABN) and be registered for Goods and Services Tax (GST) to provide services to NSW Health.

These requirements aim to ensure consistent tax reporting and reduce administrative issues related to GST and withholding tax. They apply to all VMOs engaged under sessional or fee‑for‑service arrangements.

Read IB2026_010 Visiting Medical Officer – Australian Business Number and Goods and Services Tax Requirements →

Virtual Antimicrobial Stewardship rounds

Medical officers are invited to take part in the weekly Virtual Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) Rounds held each Friday. These sessions provide a valuable opportunity to review local and complex cases, strengthen antimicrobial decision‑making, and support safer, more effective patient care across our District.

To receive the calendar invitation and Teams link, please contact your site pharmacist, who will send the meeting details directly to you.

Centralised patient and carer escalation support coming soon

A new statewide phone line for patient‑initiated escalation will launch later this month. This service will support patients, carers and families who are worried that a patient’s condition is getting worse and need urgent clinical review. It forms part of our local Clinical Emergency Response System, alongside early escalation at the bedside and timely senior review.

For Southern NSW Local Health District, all calls to the new number will go directly to the District Patient Flow Unit instead of individual site managers. This local change provides several benefits: it ensures callers reach a central, consistently staffed team, reduces delays, and reduces variability in response, particularly during periods of high activity or after hours.

During the transition period, all existing escalation numbers will remain live, ensuring there is no disruption to patient safety processes.

Medical officers should continue to respond promptly to any concerns escalated about clinical deterioration and maintain clear, reassuring communication with patients, carers and families so they feel comfortable speaking up.

It remains important to encourage early review by junior staff, support their decision‑making, and ensure assessments and plans are well documented, including when to re‑escalate. Consistent communication and documentation help reduce unnecessary escalation and support safer, more coordinated care.

Read more about Raise It (myHub login required)→

Read more about Clinical Emergency Response Systems (CERS) at Southern (myHub login required) →

Nominations open for 2026 Excellence Awards

Nominations are now open for Southern’s 2026 Excellence Awards, and we’re pleased to announce a new category this year: Medical Officer of the Year. This award recognises outstanding clinical care, leadership, professionalism and contribution to our medical workforce across Southern, and will be presented at our 2026 Excellence Awards ceremony in Queanbeyan on 17 June 2026.

We encourage all medical practitioners to get involved - whether by nominating a colleague whose work inspires you, or by submitting a project or initiative you’ve led that has made a meaningful impact. This is an opportunity to showcase the achievements, innovation and dedication within our medical community.

All medical practitioners are warmly invited to submit a nomination and help us celebrate excellence across the district. Nomination close on Friday 17 April 2026.

Download the 2026 Excellence Awards Handbook →

Nominate a colleague for 'Medical Practitioner of the Year' or another category→

Clinician input needed for future service planning for Far South Coast

Southern's Health Service Planning team is developing new Clinical Services Plans (CSPs) for the Bega Valley and Eurobodalla Local Government Areas. The CSPs define the future clinical service profile for the Coastal Network - outlining what services we deliver, the models of care we use, and the workforce and infrastructure needed to support safe, effective practice.

The Clinical Services Plans look at how changes such as virtual care, stronger primary care, shorter hospital stays, better integration across services and more support for out of hospital care can improve the way we deliver services. The updated Plans may also help guide any future investment in health facilities across the region.

With the new Eurobodalla Regional Hospital approaching completion, your medical expertise is critical to shaping service priorities, clinical pathways and models of care.

We encourage you to take part by completing the survey or reaching out to our planning team at SNSWLHD-Planning@health.nsw.gov.au.

Complete the Bega Valley LGA consultation survey →

Complete the Eurobodalla LGA consultation survey →

Medical Engagement Dinners

The first round of Southern's Medical Engagement Dinners kick off this week, with dinners in Cooma (11 March), Goulburn (18 March), Queanbeyan (25 March), Moruya (31 March) and Bega (1 April). Invitations were sent out in February - registrations have now closed for the Cooma dinner, but the other locations are still accepting registrations. These events are an opportunity to connect with colleagues, meet district leaders, and share insights on clinical priorities. We will have another round of events planned for September 2026.

Register to attend →

Updated workplace protections: what you need to know

Recent changes to workplace protections in NSW have strengthened safeguards for workers across the health system. The updated legislation broadens what the NSW Industrial Relations Commission (IRC) can consider, including matters involving bullying, sexual harassment, and victimisation. These protections now apply to a wider range of workers and workplace situations, reinforcing the importance of respectful, safe and inclusive work environments.

The reforms also expand protections for staff who raise concerns or exercise their workplace rights. If someone experiences detriment after making a complaint, seeking advice, or carrying out responsibilities under industrial or discrimination laws, the IRC can now assess whether the action was influenced by conscious or unconscious bias. Employers must be able to show that decisions were fair, transparent and based on sound reasoning, supported by clear documentation.

Medical practitioners and leaders are encouraged to act early if issues arise and to talk with your Director of Medical Services before responding to matters that may fall under these expanded protections. This includes concerns about bullying, sexual harassment, victimisation, or situations where staff may feel they have been treated unfairly after raising an issue. Early support helps ensure concerns are managed appropriately and promotes a safe and respectful workplace for all.

Further information

Thank you for the continued support that you provide across Southern every day. As we move further into 2026, I’m looking forward to working alongside you to keep improving the way we deliver care for our communities.

I’d really value your feedback on these updates - what’s useful, what’s missing and how we can make them easier to read and more relevant to you. Please feel free to email SNSWLHD-EDMS@health.nsw.gov.au or call me on 0434 163 938or my Executive Assistant, Brooke Leggoe, on 6150 7574.

Medical Practitioner Update | 10 February 2026

Welcome to the February edition of the Medical Practitioner Update. This month we’re sharing key clinical and operational updates, along with resources designed to support your practice across Southern NSW.

If you’d prefer to receive these updates at a different email address, you can subscribe here.

Welcome to our JMOs

We are pleased to welcome the Junior Medical Officers commencing across Southern this month. Thank you for choosing to begin (or continue) your medical career with us. We look forward to supporting you as you settle into your teams, services and communities.

As you settle in, please look after yourselves and each other. If you stay late to finish clinical care or are called back after hours, please submit your Unrostered Overtime and Callback (UROC) claims via StaffLink as soon as you can. If you’re unsure what qualifies or how to lodge a claim, your JMO Manager or the Medical Workforce Unit can help - don’t hesitate to ask. UROC is in place to ensure you are compensated fairly for the extra clinical work you perform.

For extra support, consider Delivering Under Pressure (DUP) - free, confidential one-to-one coaching designed for doctors in training that you can self-refer to. And if you want to talk things through with someone independent, the JMO Support Line connects you - confidentially - with an experienced senior clinician outside your immediate workplace who understands JMO life; book via 1300 JMO 321 (1300 566 321).

If something’s not sitting right - workload, team dynamics, training goals - I encourage you to reach out to your Director of Prevocational Education and Training, term supervisor or Medical Workforce Unit sooner rather than later. A short conversation now can save a lot of stress later.

Read more about unrostered overtime (including meal allowances), callbacks and meal break claims →

Read more about JMO support services →

Accessing UpToDate through CIAP

All NSW Health medical staff have access to UpToDate through the Clinical Information Access Portal (CIAP). UpToDate is a comprehensive, evidence‑based clinical resource included as part of the statewide CIAP collection.

How to access:

• From a NSW Health computer, go to CIAP (www.ciap.health.nsw.gov.au), then click the UpToDate link.
• From outside the NSW Health network, log in to CIAP using your StaffLink ID, then select UpToDate.
• You may register for your own UpToDate account via CIAP, which will also provides you access to the UpToDate mobile app.
• Ensure you log in from a NSW Health computer at least once every six months to maintain access.

Find user guides, training and support at CIAP →

Medical Engagement Dinners

The first round of Southern's Medical Engagement Dinners begin in March. Dates were shared in the January update: Cooma (11 March), Goulburn (18 March), Queanbeyan (25 March), Moruya (31 March) and Bega (1 April). Invitations were sent out last week. These events are an opportunity to connect with colleagues, meet district leaders, and share insights on clinical priorities.

To make them as useful as possible, we welcome your feedback ahead of time. If you have particular questions, topics, or issues you’d like discussed, please let us know. Sharing themes early helps us ensure the right people and information are in the room for you. We will have another round of events planned for September 2026.

Introducing Dr Nita Dhupar, District Medical Lead for Obstetrics and Gynaecology

I am delighted to introduce Dr Nita Dhupar, District Medical Lead for Obstetrics and Gynaecology.

Dr Dhupar is an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist with over 35 years of clinical experience, including over two decades as a specialist in Australia. Dr Dhupar is also the District Medical Lead for Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Murrumbidgee Local Health District, the Clinical Director of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Wagga Wagga Base Hospital and holds an academic appointment as Associate Professor with Charles Sturt University.

Dr Dhupar shared the following introduction:

"My background is strongly grounded in regional and rural maternity care, clinical governance, education, and service redesign. In recent years, my work has focused on strengthening pregnancy pathways, early risk identification, multidisciplinary collaboration, and the use of telehealth to improve access and continuity of care for women and families. I have been closely involved in Pregnancy Connect implementation within MLHD and am keen to build on this experience to support Southern Health’s priorities and local models of care.

I am very much looking forward to working collaboratively with clinicians, managers, and primary care partners to support safe, timely, and coordinated maternity care across the region. I am equally committed to fostering respectful communication, shared decision-making, and practical solutions that work for both patients and clinicians.

I look forward to meeting many of you over the coming weeks and working together as part of the Pregnancy Connect program."

Please join me in welcoming Dr Dhupar to her new role.

Introducing Dr Annie Collins, District Medical Lead for General Practice

I am delighted to introduce Dr Annie Collins, District Medical Lead for General Practice. Dr Collins will be a familiar face to many as she has worked across a lot of Southern's hospitals and health facilities previously.

Dr Collins shared the following introduction:

"I'm a long-time resident of the ACT and Southern NSW Region, growing up in Canberra and eventually coming to medicine after a time and graduated from the ANU Medical School in 2009.  Other than one year working for the Flying Doctors out of Broken Hill, I've largely remained in the Southern NSW and ACT region and worked in almost every Southern NSW Local Health District site over the years! I finished my fellowship with the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine with advanced skills in Emergency and, as a glutton for punishment, I went on to do my Advanced Diploma in Obstetrics.

I now work mainly in Yass Hospital as a GP VMO where I have experienced first-hand the challenges of being a rural hospital doctor.  I am new to this role as District Medical Lead and I hope to enhance the work that the hospital-based GP workforce perform with facilitating continuing education and promoting rural generalists in the region.  There is a lot of scope for rural generalists and hope to inspire the next generation to take up this very rewarding role."

Please join me in welcoming Dr Collins to her new role.

VMO Claims | Key Reminders

• Visiting Medical Officers (VMOs) are reminded to submit claims in line with NSW Health policy for VMO payments, using the VMoney system. Claims should be lodged promptly, with accurate documentation of services provided, to ensure timely processing. The policy outlines requirements for record‑keeping, eligible activities, timeframes for submission, and processes for verification and payment.
• VMOs are reminded to send in their monthly claims within 12 months of when the service was provided, as required under the NSW Health VMO Determinations and the VMO Claims Management Policy. If a claim comes in more than 12 months late, NSW Health may reduce the payment by 50%, and if a claim is more than 24 months late, it can’t be paid at all.
• To help avoid delays, we’ll send general reminders about these rules and will also contact you directly if you have any outstanding claims that are approaching these deadlines. This is part of the statewide process to make sure VMO payments are managed fairly and consistently.
• If you’re unsure about any part of the process - such as what needs to be included with a claim, how to submit it, or the relevant deadlines - please reach out for assistance.

Read the NSW Health VMO Claims Management policy (PD2024_032) →

Visit HealthShare's VMO Payment Processing Hub →

Bega Medicare Urgent Care Clinic now open

The new Bega Medicare Urgent Care Clinic (UCC) started seeing patients on 31 January 2026, operating from Bega Valley Medical Practice, 61 Carp Street, Bega. The clinic is open seven days a week from 8am to 6pm, with extended hours planned.

This service aims to ease pressure on the South East Regional Hospital, where more than half of presentations in 2023-24 were for semi-urgent or non-urgent conditions. It offers walk-in, fully bulk-billed care for conditions such as minor burns, cuts, infections, insect bites, respiratory illnesses, UTIs or minor fractures.

The Bega clinic was selected through a competitive tender process led by COORDINARE – South Eastern NSW PHN, which is responsible for commissioning Medicare UCCs across the region. This means Bega now joins Queanbeyan and Batemans Bay, both of which already host Medicare UCCs within the expanding national network.

Read the media release →

Midwifery Group Practice now at Cooma Hospital

A Midwifery Group Practice (MGP) model is now operating at Cooma Hospital. Under the MGP model, women receive continuity of care from a known primary midwife throughout pregnancy, labour and birth, and for up to two weeks after birth. The four-midwife Cooma MGP team began accepting referrals in late 2025 and is already caring for local mums and families.

Cooma now joins Moruya, South East Regional Hospital and Goulburn as part of Southern’s growing network of MGP sites. The Midwifery Group Practice model supports the expansion of midwifery continuity of care services across NSW, with funding provided through the NSW Budget. GPs can continue referring patients through established pathways.

Read the media release →

Public Health Update | Mosquito-borne illness

Communities across southern NSW have been reminded to protect themselves against mosquito bites following recent detections of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) in sentinel chickens in the Upper Lachlan and a probable human case in the Riverina.

In Southern, a JEV vaccine is available for free for people aged 2 months or older who live or work (including volunteer deployments) in the Goulburn-Mulwaree and Upper Lachlan Local Government Areas (LGAs) and are at risk of mosquito bites. Vaccination is available through general practice and pharmacy.

Symptoms of JEV include fever and headache, variably accompanied by neck stiffness, disorientation, nausea or vomiting, tremors, coma, seizures or convulsions and/or paralysis. If patients present with symptoms of encephalitis, include JEV in your differential diagnosis if they live or have visited rural areas, especially if they were near pig farms or report being bitten by mosquitos. Refer patients with suspected JE for management and further investigation and notify our Public Health Unit.

Clinical guidance is available at nsw.gov.au/mosquitoes and via HealthPathways.

Read more about eligibility for JEV vaccination →

Read the Media Release →

Further information

Thank you for the continued support that you provide across Southern every day. As we move further into 2026, I’m looking forward to working alongside you to keep improving the way we deliver care for our communities.

I’d really value your feedback on these updates - what’s useful, what’s missing and how we can make them easier to read and more relevant to you. Please feel free to email SNSWLHD-EDMS@health.nsw.gov.au or call me on 0434 163 938or my Executive Assistant, Brooke Leggoe, on 6150 7574.

Medical Practitioner Update | 13 January 2026

Welcome to our first update for 2026. We hope you had a safe and restful holiday season. As we start the new year, we’re focused on supporting you with important information and resources to help deliver the best care for our communities.

Our first newsletter reached 309 people and was opened by 126 readers - that’s about 41% of our audience. If you’d prefer to receive these updates at a different email address, you can subscribe here.

Surgical Services GP Referral Guide updated

• An updated Surgical Services GP Referral Guide was published in December 2025.
• The guide helps medical practitioners find medical specialists by specialty within Southern. It provides general referral information and indicates where specialists and clinics are located across the district. (Note: This guide is for referral purposes only and is not a policy directive.)
• Access the updated guide, and other information on our elective surgery services at Surgical services in Southern NSW
• For detailed clinical guidance and referral pathways, visit the ACT and Southern NSW HealthPathways website.
• To request a change to the directory, email SNSWLHD-SurgicalIntake@health.nsw.gov.au
   

Save the Date – Medical Engagement Dinners 2026

GPs and practice managers are invited to join the Executive Director of Medical Services, Chief Executive, and members of Southern's Board and Executive Leadership Team at our Medical Engagement Dinners. These events provide an opportunity to connect, share insights, and strengthen collaboration across our district.

The first round of dinners for 2026 will be held on Wednesday 11 March in Cooma, Wednesday 18 March in Goulburn, Wednesday 25 March in Queanbeyan, Tuesday 31 March in Moruya, and Wednesday 1 April in Bega.

Further details, including venues and RSVP information, will be shared closer to the dates.

Bank account transition for Patient Billing

District Patient Flow Unit & Hospital in the Home | Learnings and update

• Thank you for your ongoing support during the launch of the Southern's District Patient Flow Unit (DPFU) and district‑wide HITH model. Your collaboration is essential to ensuring safe, consistent care across the region. The new DPFU and district‑wide HITH model is now fully live, with all existing HITH patients transitioned to the updated model of care and medical governance structure.
• Early Go‑Live learnings have highlighted the need for clearer pathways, particularly around patient eligibility, referral processes, and transfer coordination - the points below address the most common issues raised in the first three weeks.
• The DFPU now coordinates all interhospital transfers - check the Patient Flow Portal or Ambulance Arrivals Board for transport/bed updates before calling. To arrange a transfer or direct admission to one of our hospitals or our Hospital in the Home service, call 1800 999 880.
• New HITH eligibility criteria apply statewide - patients must meet acute/sub‑acute admission criteria, receive daily MDT review, be clinically stable, and not require 24‑hour observation.
• VeCC manages moderate NVP/HG and stable community‑based patients - including respiratory illness and chronic disease; severe NVP/HG (PUQE‑24 ≥13 or red‑flag criteria) should be referred to HITH.
• Infusions and transfusions remain with community nursing unless the patient meets HITH criteria.
• Single Encounter workflow is mandatory - ED arrivals must be admitted to ED in iPM first, then transferred; incorrect departure status disrupts the encounter chain.

Pain Coordination Service | Information & referrals

• Southern now offers a district‑wide Pain Coordination Service, led by Allied Health clinicians, providing a single contact point and coordinated support for consumers living with persistent pain. The service works closely with St Vincent’s Chronic Pain Service to facilitate access to multidisciplinary specialist care (virtual or face‑to‑face).
• Initial referrals to the service are accepted from any health professional and is suitable for consumers ≥16 years with persistent pain >3 months, functional impact, frequent ED presentations, or reliance on analgesics.
• The service is not suitable for consumers with active cancer treatment, unresolved diagnostic issues, third‑party payer arrangements, or primary drug/alcohol or unstable mental health presentations.
• For detailed clinical guidance and referral pathways, visit the ACT and Southern NSW HealthPathways website.
• Referrals via Southern’s Central Intake Service (request Pain Coordination); St Vincent’s referrals require a GP or specialist referral (see HealthPathways: Chronic Pain Management Referrals).

Specialist Palliative Care Service | Information & referrals

• Southern's Specialist Palliative Care Service provides expert support for patients with life-limiting illness, their families, and carers. The service has developed quick-reference one-pagers for the Inland Network, Coastal Network and General Practice with essential information on referrals, contacts, and available support.
• For detailed clinical guidance and referral pathways, visit the ACT and Southern NSW HealthPathways website.

Further information

Thank you for your continued commitment to patient care. I look forward to working with you throughout 2026 to achieve great outcomes together.

I would also love your feedback on these updates - both the format and the content. Your input helps us make sure these communications are useful and relevant to you. Please share your thoughts by emailing SNSWLHD-EDMS@health.nsw.gov.au or call me on 0434 163 938or my Executive Assistant, Brooke Leggoe, on 6150 7574.

Medical Practitioner Update | 9 December 2025

Since stepping into the role of Executive Director Medical Services in March, I’ve been impressed by the skill and resilience of our medical teams. This year has shown how much we can achieve together, and I’m proud of the progress we’ve made.

We’ve heard your feedback asking for short, sharp updates. This message is part of that commitment - giving you clear information in a way that’s easy to access. It’s also available on our website so you can view it anytime, even when you’re not connected to our network.

Thank you for your feedback

Thank you to everyone who took the time to complete the Medical Workforce Communication Survey (July 2025). The survey highlighted your strong commitment to patient care, teamwork, and leadership — and a shared desire for communication that is timely, relevant, and purposeful.

What we heard

• The preferred channel for important updates is NSW Health email, followed by in-person meetings and targeted discussions.
• You value updates about clinical developments, workforce and recruitment matters, and education or training opportunities.
• The majority prefer updates monthly or only when essential, with messages that are brief, clear, and directly relevant.
• There is a strong request for earlier notification of clinical information and fewer duplicate messages.
• Many of you suggested innovative formats such as “Clinical Case of the Month” features and concise infographic summaries

Our 2026 Medical Workforce Communication Plan

In response to your feedback, I will implement a Medical Workforce Communication Plan. My aim is to ensure communication supports your clinical work and strengthens our shared leadership across Southern NSW LHD. We will focus on relevance, transparency, and collaboration - ensuring every message has value and contributes to better outcomes for our workforce and patients.

Our Communication Plan – commencing January 2026

Next Steps

• The first monthly communication will be shared in December 2025 (this one), summarising key medical updates, recruitment activity, and clinical priorities.
• We will pilot quarterly brief online forums starting early 2026, to enhance two-way engagement and collaboration.

A mid-2026 follow-up survey will evaluate how effectively these changes are meeting your communication needs.

District Patient Flow Unit now live

• Southern's new District Patient Flow Unit coordinates patient movements between hospitals in Southern NSW Local Health District, and to or from hospitals outside our district.
• The unit manages transfers, coordinates conference calls between referring and accepting clinicians, confirms bed availability, and books patient transport so care is timely and safe.
• The unit has had a phased introduction with Yass, Crookwell, Delegate, Braidwood, Bombala, Cooma and South East Regional Hospital going live on 18 November 2025, and all remaining hospitals going live on 2 December 2025.
• To arrange a transfer or direct admission to one of our hospitals or our Hospital in the Home service, call 1800 999 880.

District-wide Hospital in the Home Model of Care

• The new District HITH Model of Care will impact how you refer patients for HITH Services. All referrals for HITH services will be via Southern's District Patient Flow Unit.
• The new model builds on the existing local HITH services to increase access for patients across district.
• The service is led by a dedicated Medical Officer leading a multidisciplinary team to provide care to a broader cohort of patients, extending to paediatric, chronic and complex, palliative, and aged care patients and including home oxygen and transport support for hospital-related appointments.
• The unit has had a phased introduction with Moruya and South East Regional Hospital going live on 2 December 2025, and Queanbeyan and Goulburn going live on 8 December 2025.
• To arrange a transfer or direct admission to the Hospital in the Home service, call 1800 999 880.

Further information

As I reflect on my first year in this role, I’m proud of the progress we’ve made together - strengthening partnerships, improving communication, and focusing on integrated care. There is more to do, and I look forward to continuing this journey with you in 2026. Thank you for your trust and commitment to our shared goals.

If you have suggestions for improving communication and collaboration, please email SNSWLHD-EDMS@health.nsw.gov.au or call me on 0434 163 938or my Executive Assistant, Brooke Leggoe, on 6150 7574.

As we move into the festive season some of us will be working over the holidays, but it's really important to spend whatever time you can with our loved ones – that is an investment into their (and our) futures!

Thank you for everything you do. It is a privilege to work alongside such talented and dedicated clinicians.

Warm regards,
Professor Pooshan Navathe
Executive Director Medical Services
Southern NSW Local Health District