Leadership in healthcare quality and safety recognised

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The former Australian Private Hospitals Association (APHA) president Christine Gee has been recognised for her contribution to safety and quality initiatives across Australia’s health care sector.

Ms Gee, who is CEO of Toowong Private Hospital in Brisbane, has been awarded the ACHS Gold Medal 2021.

The ACHS medal recognises an individual for improving quality and safety in Australian health services.

APHA CEO Michael Roff said Ms Gee’s contribution to improving health outcomes for Australians was significant.

“Christine has been a force to be recognised in this space," he said.

"Her strategic thinking, teamed with her immense intellect and charm have seen real change in safety and quality practices not only in the private hospital sector, but the whole of health care and Australian patients owe her a debt of gratitude for her efforts.

“Having worked with Christine as a former President and long-time Board member of our Association, I can attest to her commitment to this work,” said Mr Roff.

ACHS President Professor Len Notaras described Ms Gee’s contribution as ‘immense’.

“Christine has not only had a direct impact in quality and safety in her own hospital, she has also committed time, energy and her considerable leadership skills in the promotion of safety and quality in health care at a national level, over a sustained period of time.”

Ms Gee has held a number of leadership positions in the quality and safety area.

APHA said Ms Gee has chaired its Psychiatric Committee, the Safety and Quality Taskforce, Policy and Advocacy Taskforce and has been a Board member for more than 17 years, including serving as its president.

Current APHA president and Epworth HealthCare Group chief executive Dr Lachlan Henderson said Ms Gee was very deserving of the award.

“Christine has led the private hospital sector’s moves into understanding and evaluating private hospital safety and quality data. It is wonderful to see her contribution to the sector and beyond, recognised,” he said.