Consumer Representative Networking Event
Written by
Paula Collins
Engagement Lead – Consumers and Stakeholders
In early September, we hosted our Consumer Representative Networking Event, bringing consumer representatives together both in person and online to share their experiences, stories and perspectives.
It was a great opportunity to hear about the current experiences of health consumer representatives across WA, and the room was full of conversation, energy and positivity. There was a real sense of enthusiasm for the opportunities ahead and to continue learning from one another, sharing ideas and finding new ways to strengthen consumer engagement.
Interestingly, several key themes emerged throughout the discussions, highlighting areas where we can continue to support and work alongside our consumer representatives.
Key themes we heard
A number of common themes and areas of interest emerged, including:
- Consistency in consumer engagement — the current approach varies between providers, and there is an opportunity to explore greater consistency in how consumers are engaged.
- Closing the feedback loop — consumers want to know how their feedback has been considered and whether it has contributed to changes or improvements in services.
- Greater transparency and collaboration — there was interest in strengthening collaboration between service providers and exploring whether agendas and key discussion points could be shared with HCC.
- Culturally safe healthcare — culturally safe healthcare remains a key priority, with consumers sharing concerns and experiences that highlight the need for continued focus in this area.
- Communication and training — there was discussion about how consumer voices and lived experiences could be better incorporated into staff training and education.
- Preventative health — participants highlighted the importance of preventative health and the broader impact it can have across the health system.
Looking ahead
Following these discussions, we’re keen to keep the conversation going and build on the ideas and insights shared at the event.
Some of the areas we’ll be exploring include:
- Connecting with key consumer group committees to better understand upcoming meetings, agendas and opportunities for consumer participation.
- Exploring how consumer voices and lived experiences could be incorporated into staff training and education.
- Creating more opportunities for consumer representatives to connect, network and engage with HCC.
- Sharing upcoming Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for new projects and opportunities to contribute.
- Connecting with the Health Engagement Network (HEN) and encouraging consumer representatives to sign up for the WA Consumer Collaborative.
- Sharing information about upcoming consumer training opportunities — click HERE to find out more.
We’ll be hosting another Consumer Representative Networking Event later this year, and we’d love to see both new and returning consumer representatives there.
There’s lots to keep the conversation going, so stay tuned to our newsletter for details about the next event. We look forward to connecting with you again soon!
Ready to get involved?
You do not need previous committee experience to become a health consumer representative. Your experiences of healthcare, as a patient, carer, family member or community member, can help improve how health services are designed and delivered.
Build your skills through HCCWA’s upcoming consumer representative training.
Connect with other consumers and find opportunities through the Health Engagement Network.
Join the movement for fairer healthcare in WA.
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