“In recent years, our healthcare workforce has faced unprecedented challenges and working conditions, which understandably, are starting to take their toll on all levels of the system,” said Australian Health Review Editor in Chief Dr Sonĵ Hall. 

This includes not only those on the front lines dealing with the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, understaffing, our aging population, and the increasing impacts of climate change on community health and well-being but also the upper levels of management who are relied upon to provide leadership and guidance. 

The October issue of the Australian Health Review examines the key factors behind Australian hospital CEO turnover and how effective retention strategies can be implemented in order to strengthen leadership continuity and enhance organisational performance. 

“It is also vital that a positive working culture is supported and exemplified by all staff, but critically those in positions of power,” added Dr Hall. 

“An evaluation of anti-bullying training in surgery conducted by La Trobe University found that while full-day anti-bullying training does have some effect in reducing these harmful behaviours, to implement a full shift in culture, a sustained, multi-faceted strategy is needed to foster a more respectful workplace environment.” 

This issue also dives into the workforce concerns of staffing ratios. Articles featured have a particular focus on allied health clinical care ratios in Australia and New Zealand and the implications this has for future workforce planning. 

“A healthy workforce is crucial for the sustainability of the entire health system,” added Dr Hall. 

“It’s important to use all resources, including our workforce, effectively to meet the health needs of people and communities, while also prioritising the wellbeing of our workforce.” 

An article from the researchers at the University of Sydney and AHHA’s Executive Director, Knowledge Exchange, Adj AProf Rebecca Haddock, examines the current state of sustainable healthcare in Australia, and the importance of considering the decarbonisation of clinical practices, in addition to broader system approaches that target power consumption and transport. 

“Health funding, like sustainability, requires consideration at all levels, not just at the macro but also the micro, to gain valuable insights.” 

The October issue of the Australian Health Review also highlights a collection of articles that focus on funding and cost efficiency for very specific areas of health, such as deep brain stimulation for Parkinson’s disease, multi-parametric magnetic resonance imaging of the prostate and peripheral intravenous catheter use. 

Related: AHHA responds to “Unleashing the potential of our health workforce” review