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 Jenni, our Senior Information and Advocacy Officer.

How long have you worked at HCCWA

7 years

What inspired you to work at HCCWA?

I had a background in medico-legal work – I had previously worked in a health service, then I had worked for a major medical indemnity insurer. When I returned from maternity leave, I had made a choice to balance my home and work life and moved into the community services sector in the regions. I worked for Victim Support Service, Housing Support, DV program coordination and paralegal work. When I returned to Perth after living in Albany, Karratha and Kalgoorlie, I specifically looked for a role that aligned with my beliefs and values, but that also utilised my background in medico-legal work and challenging social injustices and inequity. I felt Health Consumers’ Council fit the criteria. Luckily, the feeling was mutual and I got the job!

Describe what you do at HCCWA

I am an Individual Advocate and my job is to advocate for consumers of the WA health system to ensure their rights are upheld under the Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights, that their voices are heard, and that any barriers or inequities are addressed. Sometimes that might involve ‘nudging’ a clinician or health service in the right direction by reminding them about person centred care and their obligations. I also help people to feel empowered to advocate for themselves by providing advice about their particular circumstances, together with information, resources, system navigation and referrals.

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

I think it’s great. It’s an important role given there are no other services offering free individual advocacy services for the entire WA health system. That includes issues with allied health, pharmacy, and dental – it’s not only hospitals and primary care! I have had consumers from Eastern States call us for support because other states’ health consumer organisations don’t offer individual advocacy. Unfortunately, those consumers only option is paying a private operator for support. Our service is pretty special and unique.

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

I see my work as an individual advocate as supporting people to understand what health care rights are and how to exercise those rights. My hope is that people come away from engaging with our service feeling more empowered and knowledgeable than they did before.

Ever met anyone famous?

Yes. Back in the 80s (the good old days) Prince Charles and Princess Diana visited Australia. They visited the region in Victoria that I lived in. All the primary schools around the districts converged on one location and I was selected from my school to present her with a bunch of flowers. I was around 5 or 6 years of age, and I remember she kissed me on the cheek! I did not realise how special that was until I was older.