The “unique” role of PHNs in improving the health of their communities motivated South Western Sydney PHN’s new Board Chair, Karen Edwards, to join our organisation in 2020.
Ms Edwards says she’s passionate about improving access and equity in healthcare service delivery, particularly for outer metropolitan and regional communities.
“As Chair, I will have an opportunity to amplify the Board’s messaging around the needs of the South Western Sydney community on key issues like workforce shortages, patient to GP ratios, culturally safe care and health equity,” she said.
Ms Edwards, the Clinical Director at Gidget Foundation Australia, replaced long-term Chair, Dr Matthew Gray, in October last year. She brings previous experience in both public and private sector roles in health management, governance and clinical psychology to her new role.
As a Board Director, Ms Edwards said she had been proud to be associated with SWSPHN’s commissioning work.
“SWSPHN has a very rigorous approach to commissioning, and is always striving to deliver accessible, evidence-based services which meet the needs of this unique community,” she said.
In her new position, she’s keen to “prioritise a focus on equity, noting the unique challenges associated with accessing healthcare in this region, and the overall goal of improving the health and wellbeing” of our community.
“Talking with government, local representatives and community groups is one way I can understand what the community wants and needs from the PHN,” she said.
“The PHN has always taken a collaborative approach to health service delivery, partnering with GPs allied health, aligned not-for-profits and the Local Health District. These partnerships are critical to ensuring fit for purpose local services, and for improving the experiences of consumers.
“Moving forward I think we will continue to invest in these relationships.
“We are also keen to work more closely with Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation and Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Council as they support First Nations families within our region.”
Ms Edwards said SWSPHN had a strong track record of innovation and excellence in service delivery, amid a rapidly growing population.
“I am really looking forward to seeing how this organisation embraces technology, and leverages this to support primary care providers, and to deliver fit-for purpose healthcare which sets the bar for other PHNs,” she said.
Pictured above: As new Board Chair, Karen Edwards is looking forward to supporting SWSPHN’s strong track record of innovation and excellence in service delivery.