#2328_WSLHD_CPH_YIR 2023_4A_WEB

Future Directions As we reflect on our past achievements and the evolving landscape of public health challenges, it is imperative to outline the strategic pathways that will shape our future collective efforts. Below, we highlight a few emerging trends and transformative approaches that will guide some of our work in 2024 and beyond.

Proactive moves to address e-cigarette risks To counter the increasing prevalence of e-cigarette use, we eagerly anticipate the roll-out of the WSLHD E-Cigarette Action Plan. “Led by our Smoking and Vaping Prevention team, alongside district-based working groups, the newly established, robust governance structure for this plan will pave the way for a comprehensive District wide approach to a very serious public health issue,” said CPH Director, Dr Shopna Bag. The plan, focused on monitoring, evaluating progress, and addressing local impacts amid recent Commonwealth regulations, aims to support the community, staff, and clinicians. “We’ll be strategically positioned to assess and comprehend local impacts, particularly in light of the recent regulations introduced by the Commonwealth government and the forthcoming revision of the state tobacco/e-cigarette strategy.”

Integrating population health with clinical services The Centre will also continue advancing improvements for embedding population health initiatives within clinical services. “One example of this in practice is the strong partnership established with WSLHD Women’s Health services through the Maternity Engagement Program. This initiative seeks to identify tools and enablers crucial for supporting patients and clinicians, with a focus on making strides in reducing smoking rates for Aboriginal pregnant women and preventing congenital syphilis,” said Dr Bag. Looking ahead, CPH is keen to collaborate with partners to further contribute towards another crucial priority— the First 2000 Days strategy. “We are ready to engage in meaningful partnerships and welcome discussions for this joint effort to give babies and children the best start possible in life.” Enhanced collaboration Several new CPH Working Groups have been initiated to help drive outcomes for priorities outlined in the CPH Strategic Framework. Three groups—People and Culture, Sustainability, and Emergency Preparedness—will foster cross-centre brainstorming and action as well as build staff and organisational capacity. “We recognise the importance of collaboration and the exchange of ideas in addressing our strategic priorities. These working groups are vital platforms for driving innovation and ensuring the development of our staff,” said Dr Bag. As CPH takes bold steps to address the challenges posed by e-cigarette use, strengthening health protection responses to emerging risks, and advancing population health initiatives, Dr Bag says the team at CPH remains committed to fostering partnerships, innovation, and community wellbeing. “Comprehensively understanding the dynamics of our community and collaborating with our partner teams and organisations will be critical in tailoring strategies to best meet the health needs of our WSLHD community”.

Dr Shopna Bag , Centre for Population Health Director

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WSLHD Centre for Population Health Year in Review 2023