Giving back

While others may think retirement is a time to relax and take it easy, Consumer Advisor Kate Doherty sees it as an opportunity to give back.

Already involved with other commitments, such as fundraising to build and run preschools in Timor-Leste and organising quarterly lunches for seniors at St Dominic’s Parish East Camberwell, Kate decided that joining Mercy Health’s Consumer Advisory Committee (CAC) would be another interesting way of giving her time and skills to the community.

Kate’s friend MarianneMahony (former Chair of the CAC), encouraged her to join.

Consumer Advisor Kate Doherty

“I had never heard of the Consumer Advisor role but it sounded really interesting and I liked the idea of being involved in healthcare because of my background as an optometrist,” Kate said.

One year in, Kate continues to find the role enjoyable and fulfilling. “I’ve learnt so much about the organisation and I’m so impressed with Mercy Health’s mission to provide the best possible service. It is such a privilege to be a part of that,” she says.

Everybody’s opinion is valued and it is a wonderful opportunity to have the consumer’s voice heard.

Participating in Care First Rounds has been one the most rewarding aspects of the role for Kate. Care First Rounds involve Executives touring clinical areas to meet frontline staff and patients to discuss safety and risk issues. In 2018, Consumer Advisors became involved in the rounds to encourage Mercy Health’s teams and service areas to consider quality and safety with a patient focus.

So what would Kate say to anyone thinking about becoming a Consumer Advisor? “Even though it requires some time, it’s very gratifying, and the assistance given by Mercy Health executives and staff is exceptional. Everybody’s opinion is valued and it is a wonderful opportunity to have the consumer’s voice heard.”

If you would like more information about becoming a Consumer Advisor, please email the Consumer Participation and Experience Team at getinvolved@mercy.com.au or phone (03) 8416 7872.

You can also find out more about becoming a Consumer Advisor on our website: www.mercyhealth.com.au/our-structure/consumer-engagement/consumer-advisory-committee/

Last reviewed July 5, 2019.

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