On Wednesday 23 July, we are celebrating #HelloMyNameIs Day – a powerful reminder of the importance of something simple: introducing yourself.
At Werribee Mercy Hospital, we believe that exceptional healthcare begins with genuine human connection. That’s why we’ve embraced the “Hello, my name is…” initiative — a simple yet powerful practice that places compassion and respect at the forefront of every interaction.
The campaign began in the UK in 2013, founded by Dr Kate Granger, a physician and terminally ill cancer patient. During her treatment for sarcoma, Kate noticed that many healthcare professionals didn’t introduce themselves before delivering care. It left her feeling invisible and unsettled during some of the most vulnerable moments of her life. In response, she and her husband launched the #HelloMyNameIs movement to encourage healthcare workers to start every interaction with a simple introduction.
It was a call to bring kindness back into clinical settings — not just as a nice-to-have, but as a vital part of safe, person-centred care. Kate died on 23 July 2016, and the date has since become a global day of reflection and action — a chance to reaffirm that compassion and connection are as important as any treatment we offer.
These four words — “Hello, my name is…” — are more than a greeting. They are the foundation of trust between patients, families, and healthcare professionals. Whether it’s a nurse introducing themselves to a patient, a doctor speaking with a family, or a colleague connecting with someone new, this small gesture fosters empathy, dignity, and open communication.
By starting with an introduction, our staff are saying: I see you. I respect you. I’m here to support you. It’s a commitment to collaborative care — where your voice is heard, your needs are understood, and your wellbeing is our priority.
Because at the heart of healthcare is people. And every interaction truly matters.
Look out for the new initiative at Werribee Mercy Hospital from July 23 to learn more.
