Staff and researchers in South West Sydney have been recognised for their innovative medical research and services to patients by being awarded the status of a South Western Sydney Academic Unit.
Minister for Medical Research Pru Goward was joined on Thursday by Member for Holsworthy Melanie Gibbons to congratulate the Mental Health Program, Radiation Oncology and Respiratory and Sleep Medicine teams, which have each been awarded the inaugural title.
Ms Goward said the title of an Academic Unit was a prestigious one, awarded to departments that provided services to patients that are multi-disciplinary, cover certain health problems or diseases and are based in one or more facilities within Local Health District.
“These services were chosen because of their strong track record of internationally recognised research, which translates into cutting edge clinical practice and ultimately world class treatment for patients,” Ms Goward said.
“We know that South Western Sydney is one of the fastest growing regions in the state and to ensure we meet the increasing demand for high quality health services in the community, it is vital that we continue to enhance and develop services.”
Ms Gibbons said it was inspiring to see the outstanding and innovative research taking place in South West Sydney.
“I congratulate all the recipients of the Academic Units and commend the South Western Sydney Local Health District for recognising the importance of supporting staff to continue their world class research right here in south west Sydney,” Ms Gibbons said.
South Western Sydney Local Health District and Ingham Institute research director, Professor Michael Barton, said the Academic Units were recognition from colleagues and the health service of their success as a group.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“The key to success is the multidisciplinary care for patients,” Prof Barton said.[/social_quote]
“The direction for the future is to increase collaborations and partnerships and a big part of how we do this is through research – bringing the latest innovations in diagnosis and treatment to patients.”
