Steph Barrett
RN, BScN, GDipBus(Mgt)
Coordinator of Nursing Palliative Care, WA Country Health Service

Steph champions the implementation of a transformative palliative care programme in Western Australia (WA), following the review on End-of-life Choices. As a response to the pressing need for improved palliative care in rural and regional WA, the state government made a financial commitment. Combining her extensive background in leadership, management, project development, and hands-on nursing, Steph drives the expansion of palliative care services within the WA Country Health Service (WACHS).

With a commitment to innovation and excellence, Steph's role entails introducing advanced models of palliative care, fostering multidisciplinary palliative care hubs and enhancing staffing. Steph is also instrumental in establishing a state-level afterhours telehealth service through the WACHS Command Centre, amplifying support for clinicians and bringing care closer to patients and caregivers. Moreover, Steph champions the introduction of palliative care community home care supports, enabling patients and caregivers to receive care while remaining within familiar surroundings. These efforts are geared towards better supporting clinicians and ensuring accessible services for patients and caregivers within their local communities.

Steph's journey has been enriched by collaboration with skilled and compassionate regional palliative care teams, from whom she derives invaluable insights. Her esteemed role as the leader of the Palliative Care Program for WA Country Health Service is a source of pride and honour, reflecting her dedication to improving the lives of those in need.