New TCHHS top boss vows to win back faith in health services ahead of independent investigation’s findings

Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service’s new chief executive has pledged to restore “trust and confidence” within remote Indigenous communities.

An investigation into Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service is currently reviewing the administration, management and treatment of First Nations peoples across the region.

Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service’s new chief executive has pledged to restore “trust and confidence” within remote Indigenous communities and amongst health workers ahead of the release of a critical report into healthcare in the region.

The death of a toddler after seeking treatment at Bamaga Hospital in June 2023 led to the sudden resignation of former CEO Beverley Hamerton.

A letter written by community leaders that month citing “a high prevalence of avoidable deaths” prompted Queensland Health to launch an independent investigation into the service in August.

Led by Professor Cindy Shannon AM, the inquiry will review the administration, management and treatment of First Nations peoples across the region with findings released in two parts starting later this month.

“This will include an assessment of health services provided by TCHHS … and an assessment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural safety,” Professor Shannon said in a recent update to stakeholders.

The report will be released in two parts starting next month.

Newly appointed CEO Rex O’Rourke, who started in the role in January, said the organisation was committed to improving healthcare in remote communities.

“I have confidence that our service has robust clinical governance and systems,” Mr O’Rourke said.

“But there are opportunities to improve and there always will be. Where we have an opportunity to improve is listening, talking and engaging with the community.

“You’ve got to win back the trust and confidence.”

Increasing staff retention, upgraded facilities and maternity services were part of a plan to improve patients’ wellbeing in communities like Weipa, Cooktown, Thursday Island and beyond, Mr O’Rourke said.

“I want the community to … feel confident that they’ll get the best quality care,” Mr O’Rourke said.

“We’ve got a bit to go. But I want the staff to feel proud to work for us and know that they feel valued and appreciated.

“Across Australia there is a workforce shortage for midwives and GPs in obstetrics and anaesthetics.

“One of the areas that has a direct impact (on staff retention) is the quality of the facilities you’re (working) in. Weipa had a refurbishment and has a great facility.

“If we’re going to attract people we need to have good, safe, clinical environments and Cooktown Hospital needs to be looked at further.”

TCHHS executive general manager southern sector, Michael Catt with chief executive Rex O'Rourke at the Wujal Wujal Primary Health Care Centre last month.

Mr O’Rourke said he was heartened to meet health workers who had supported vulnerable Wujal Wujal residents during and after the record December floods recently.

“There are huge boulders that have come crashing down (in the community),” he said.

“The devastation is phenomenal from a nature perspective.

“It was such a privilege to see the staff. Their safety and psychological support is key for me because they are the reason things are going well.”

Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service staff inspect a damaged vehicle at its clinic in the remote Indigenous community of Wujal Wujal in January.

A temporary clinic will be established in the southern Cape York township by late April.

Seventy per cent of residents within the TCHHS area identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.

Originally published as New TCHHS top boss vows to win back faith in health services ahead of independent investigation’s findings