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Detect & Protect - a Roadblock to Suicide, a Pathway to Rural Wellness

Tracks
Bluewater I - In-Person
Friday, November 8, 2024
9:20 AM - 9:40 AM
Bluewater I

Overview

Christine Boucher, Wellness Worx


Presenter

Agenda Item Image
Ms Christine Boucher
CEO
Wellness Worx & RFCS

Detect & Protect - a Roadblock to Suicide, a Pathway to Rural Wellness

Abstract

In the challenging landscape of rural and remote Australia, health equity and accessibility remain persistent issues, Cumulative stress as a result of natural disasters is palpable in these regions, reflecting the importance of effective interventions and comprehensive wellness support.

This presentation introduces the ADAPT Program, an innovative initiative developed in collaboration by RFCS Gippsland and Wellness Worx to address the challenges in rural and regional healthcare. Employing a case management framework, Successfully implemented within Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS) Gippsland and Bush Nursing Service, ADAPT demonstrates a replicable solution that strategically confronts prevailing health resource challenges through education and training of wellness support officers in rural and remote communities.

Aligned with Government strategies such as The Australian National Suicide Prevention Strategy (2020-2023) and the Royal Commission’s Mental Health System Final Report, ADAPT contributes to the vision of a responsive mental health and wellbeing system. It echoes the Australian Government's Delivering Ag2030 theme, emphasizing 'human capital' as a critical aspect of action.

The presentation will draw on data collected from the ADAPT program, revealing an impressive 85% improvement in overall wellness among participants, with a remarkable 95% satisfaction rate.
The innovative delivery approach, which equips on-the-ground wellness support led by community-based wellness officers, serves as a conduit and pathway to support access to and use of other online and community healthcare services. This ensures that individuals overcome barriers, whether technological, resource-related, or due to remoteness, to access these essential services.

Delegates will gain insights into the successful implementation of the ADAPT Program, learning about its impact on rural and regional communities, and will have a deeper understanding of how innovative delivery and approach can inspire change, imagining a future where rural and regional communities thrive with the support they need, particularly in the aftermath of natural disasters.

Three Key Learnings:

Delegates will gain insights into the successful implementation of the ADAPT Program, learning about its impact on rural and regional communities, and will have a deeper understanding of how innovative delivery and approach can inspire change, imagining a future where rural and regional communities thrive with the support they need, particularly in the aftermath of natural disasters.

Biography

Christine Boucher spent over 20 years as a Registered Nurse specializing in Cardio-thoracic Intensive Care, working internationally. As CEO of Wellness Worx, she collaborates with government bodies, Not for Profits and rural businesses to develop strategic Health and Well-Being Programs. Residing in East Gippsland, Christine holds multiple qualifications and is a strong advocate for improving health access and equity in rural and regional communities. Her mission is to enhance health outcomes, particularly in these areas, through strategic wellness initiatives. Christine firmly believes that workplaces are the frontline of healthcare and are crucial in advancing community health and boosting the economy.
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