Effective Health Advocacy: A Mentoring and Training Program
Our member, a Registered Nurse in Queensland, reached out to our member support team with a concerning issue. AHPRA had placed some conditions on her registration, and until those conditions were met, her registration would be under threat.
This was due to their expression of concerns about the reliability of Government-spun Health advice at a public event. AHPRA had decided that our member would be required to undergo specialised training before these conditions could be removed.
*It is important to note that had our member requested assistance as soon as she was aware of the investigation (which is what we recommend to all members) we may have been able to avoid the conditions in the first place. There are a number of things AHPRA may not have adequately considered in its investigations, and which we would object to:
- The reliability of the anonymous complaint.
- The possible lack of evidence that what was alleged was actually said.
- The accuracy of the statements themselves.
- Whether there was a single complaint or multiple.
- How the investigation itself was being conducted.
Unfortunately, AHPRA had already conducted its investigation and confirmed the restrictions, limiting our scope to exactly what our hardworking member was asking for advice on where she could quickly complete this mandatory training. And more importantly: get AHPRA off her back for good.
She sought assistance from the Queensland Branch, NPAQ, leading to the development of a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and mentoring program by the team at NPAQ, spearheaded by case manager Abi.
The program, named "Becoming Better Health Advocates", was delivered through the online training module RedU, provided by Red Union Support Hub.
The aim of the program was to fulfil AHPRA’s requirements by enhancing the member's ability to share health information online in a responsible and ethical manner. The program covered various topics including professional values, ethical standards, culturally safe and responsive care, evidence-based care, and the safe and effective use of information and technology.
The program also incorporated a mentoring plan. This plan provided resources and support networks to help the member maintain a positive online presence and manage their mental health and well-being.
Upon completion of the training and mentoring, AHPRA approved the CPD and mentoring plan. Consequently, the restrictions on the member's registration were successfully lifted.
The case serves as an example of the teamwork and dedication of NPAQ to its members.
The "Becoming Better Health Advocates" program and mentoring plan are now accessible and being used by other nurses in similar situations.
How is the NPAA so effective in defending members during workplace issues and disputes? Our experienced and professional case managers use our unique RED™ case resolution system.
Why is the NPAA different? We believe that real change in healthcare STARTS with empowering frontline nurses, not bureaucrats.
If you are a member of NPAA and need assistance with a workplace issue, please submit a member support ticket on your dashboard, or contact us at 1300 263 374 - hotline@npaa.asn.au
To find out more about NPAA and become protected today visit: npaa.redunion.com.au/join
