The Ipswich Alcohol and Other Drug Service (AODS) team has been recognised on a national scale for their innovative hepatitis C testing and treatment program.
In response to the high rate of hepatitis C in the West Moreton community, the service has improved its approach to diagnosing and treating the condition to reduce the harmful impact of drug use.
West Moreton Health AODS Clinical Nurse Lisa Ball said the national recognition highlighted the meaningful impact the dedicated team was having in the West Moreton community.
“People in the region tell us they experience the effects of stigma due to the impact of drug use, re-infection, or being in prison,” she said.
“Our team strives to create a safe environment where individuals can access the care they need without fear of judgment or discrimination.”
Same-visit hepatitis C testing and treatment is offered to people already using the service, as well as community education programs on safer alcohol and drug use behaviours.
“Our follow-up and wrap-around services, including counselling and education, removes some of the barriers to health and wellbeing services,” Ms Ball said.
“I’ve watched as the perceptions around mental health and substance addiction evolve and how awareness campaigns are leading to better outcomes for people in the community.”
Since March 2022, the team has tested more than 170 people for hepatitis C, resulting in 24 positive diagnoses and eight successful treatments.
She said some of those tested for hepatitis C did not realise they should seek testing.
“Working at West Moreton Health, to me, is more than just providing health care services, but also challenging perceptions and shattering the stigma surrounding mental health and substance addiction.”
The AODS team has been announced as a finalist in 2024 HESTA Australian Nursing and Midwifery Awards in the Outstanding Organisation category.
Representatives from the service will attend the award ceremony in May where the winners in each category will be announced.
More information on the HESTA awards is available HESTA website.