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With WHAM women’s health is brighter
21 July 2008
The future of women’s health will be brighter with the launch of Hunter New England Health’s Women’s Health and Maternity (WHAM) Network in Tamworth tomorrow (Tuesday 22 July).
The WHAM Network aims to improve the health and well-being for all women from puberty to the end of their lives, using the most progressive and innovative approaches to care available.
Clinical Leader of the WHAM Network Anne Saxton said the establishment of the Network recognises the importance of the woman's role in the family, the community and in society and her ability to have a positive effect on overall health outcomes.
One of the first tasks of the WHAM Network is the development of the Women’s Health and Maternity Clinical Services Plan. The WHAM Plan will set the direction of Women’s Health and Maternity service development and delivery across the Hunter New England Area and highlight priority strategies for the next five years.
"Women have a major influence on health status and healthcare use by the entire family unit,” Mrs Saxton said.
“When you have a healthy mother and baby you are well on your way to having a healthy community which, in turn, leads to a healthy nation.”
A significant example of the woman's contribution to health is successful breastfeeding.
“Research clearly demonstrates the link between successful breastfeeding and reduction in obesity, chronic diseases - both in childhood and adult life - and in turn an overall reduction in hospital admissions.”
Mrs Saxton said improving the health of women and their children had a far-reaching effect on population health.
“Health education and better care for women impacts usage of acute health services, allowing the precious healthcare dollar to be directed to other essential services.”
The WHAM Network will facilitate a coordinated approach to overcoming challenges such as the ageing workforce, decreased availability of midwives and medical staff, as well as the difficulties faced in the provision of Aboriginal and rural and remote healthcare.
The WHAM Network will be headed by Anne Saxton, Tamworth’s Maggi Daley as the Network Coordinator, in conjunction with two Clinical Stream Leaders, Tamworth’s Jenny Bath for Women's Health/Gynaecology and Rosalee Shaw for Maternity Services.
Contact: Emma Gibbs
Phone: (02) 6767 7137 or 0428 114 767
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