Our team works hard for the people of WA, we’re passionate about making a difference in the lives of West Aussies and working hard to make patients, carers, loved ones – all health consumers – are at the centre of our healthcare system to make healthcare fair.

We’d like you to meet Clare Mullen, Executive Director of HCCWA

How long have you worked at HCCWA

Since September 2018, so seven and a half years now.

What inspired you to work at HCCWA?

I had the chance to work on a project which led to setting up the Health Engagement Network. In the course of that work, I came to the realisation that the next wave of transformation in health and healthcare will be – and needs to be – consumer and community-led. When a job in the Engagement Team was advertised, I applied and was successful.

I’m so grateful that the founders of HCC – both consumer leaders and community members, as well as the politicians and public servants of the day – recognised the need for, and committed to, establishing HCC as an independent voice for the community on all aspects of health and healthcare.

Describe what you do at HCCWA

I’m now privileged to be the Executive Director – in that role I take care of the organisation, making sure we have the resources to do what the community requires of us; I take care of the team, making sure everyone has the conditions and the support they need to do the great work they do with and alongside the community; and I play a part in championing and amplifying consumer perspectives on every aspect of health and healthcare. I also spend time building and nurturing relationships with consumer reps and leaders, as well as the many organisations and stakeholders that we work with to achieve a more compassionate, equitable and safe health system for all.

What do you think about HCCWA and the work we do?

I feel so lucky to work in an organisation where everyone works so hard and passionately every day to deliver better health outcomes and experiences for everyone across WA. I’m also inspired and energised by the efforts of the thousands of people in our community who show up to speak up for consumers on committees, working groups, as well as in clinics and hospitals to make sure that more people have a fairer and safe experience in WA health services.

I love the commitment to improving equity – that is, recognising that some people have a different experience in the health system because they either belong to a particular group, or have particular characteristics. Everyone at HCC is committed to making healthcare fair in WA.

How do you see your work helping to improve outcomes and experiences for everyone in WA?

At HCC we’re all working hard to make sure that consumer perspectives are heard in every room where decisions are made about health or healthcare. Be that in your appointment with a doctor where you’re deciding on a treatment plan, or at a Board meeting deciding on a health service’s budget, or informing statewide policy on safe high quality care.

Ever met anyone famous?

Yes! In one year I met Dr Patch Adams, Germaine Greer, and UK Prime Minister Tony Blair when I was organising a health conference in the UK. I was awestruck 🙂