How did you get started as an allied health assistant, and where has it taken you?

At the age of fifteen I commenced a two-week work experience placement at Hunter Valley Private Hospital (HVPH) as a “Technical Assistant in Nutrition and Dietetics”, as part of my year 10 curriculum.

During that two-week placement I absolutely loved every interaction with patients and thrived in the hospital environment. I was far more interested in staying with the hospital than going back to school. I was offered an apprenticeship once I completed my year 10 certificate—the hospital was willing to pay for my TAFE NSW Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance (Nutrition and Dietetics), and provide me with a job throughout my study.

I worked for HVPH for four years at which point I decided to branch out and take on new study, completing a Certificate III in Assistance in Nursing and a Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy). Since completing my certificates with TAFE NSW I have worked in seven hospitals, both Metro and Regional, Private and Public, and have been a passionate AHA for 13 years.
 

What has been a defining event or highlight of your career so far?

My manager Helen Feeney at HVPH for seeing potential and value in me, and offering me the apprenticeship that started my career in health.

My current workplace, Westmead Hospital’s Head of Department Physiotherapy Katherine Maka, and Allied Health Director Marie Fournaris for being champions of the allied health assistant workforce and supporting my professional development. They have both empowered me to work at the top of scope and provided me with so many valuable opportunities.
 

Why is establishing a national network for AHAs so important? Where do you see it heading in the future?

Allied health assistants are a crucial element of the healthcare workforce and I strongly believe that the establishment of AHANA is only going to grow the awareness and capabilities in strengthening the allied health assistant workforce. It will provide a governing body to support the development and understanding of how best to utilise and appreciate your allied health assistants. 
 

What’s your vision for the future AHA workforce? What would you like to see done differently within the AHA profession and/or the wider allied health workforce to improve quality health care delivery?

• Recognition for the contributions allied health assistants play in healthcare. 
• Further career development and support. 
• Empowerment of the allied health assistant to work at top of scope and clearly understand scope.
• Introduction of the allied health assistant role at a university level. 
• Attention and focus on allied health assistant models of care within healthcare facilities.
   

Any additional insights you’d like to share?

Throughout my working career I have always been asked “why don’t you just become an allied health professional?" It’s important for me to mention that university (yes I did attempt it once) was not suited to my learning style and I am a passionate believer that you don’t necessarily need a degree to succeed.