Although nurses at public health institutions are always under scrutiny, South West Regional Health Authority (SWRHA) CEO Anil Gosine emphasised that it was a tough job that not everyone could do.
“It takes a very strong, intelligent and compassionate person to take on the ills of the world with passion and purpose and work to maintain the health and well-being of the planet,” Gosine said. He was speaking at the Nurses Achievement ceremony at the San Fernando Hill, Visitor’s Centre, yesterday where primary and secondary care nurses were recognised for their achievements.
Noting that nurses are always highlighted in the media, he said it was because of their role as frontliners in healthcare institutions. He added: “It is said that the hallmark of a successful healthcare organisation is the presence of committed individuals who keep the organisation running despite the odds.
“This is reflective of our staff in the SouthWest RHA, especially our nurses, whose outstanding service, unwavering commitment and inspiring contributions to patient care in the southwest region have proven integral to our development as a people-centred organisation.
“Nursing is not for everyone and for this reason, it gives me great pride to witness these achievement presentations today.
“Our successes cannot only be measured by statistical data but by what we have accomplished despite the obstacles encountered and our willingness to persevere against the odds.
“I know that there will be inevitable challenges but it is the way we deal with challenges that allow us to grow and improve our ability to provide excellent service.”
General manager of Nursing, Franka Olliviere-Andrew, told her charges that they were the backbone of the nation’s heathcare system, therefore playing a big role in every patients’ experience.
She added healthcare was also changing because of technology, cost containment and Government decisions which pose a challenge to them. As a result, she said, nurses needed to change the way they did things in order to get better outcomes for their patients.