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RACS ASC 2025
The WSLHD FLASH program and strengthening the healthcare team
Invited Paper
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Invited Paper

2:40 pm

04 May 2025

Meeting Room C2.2

LEADERSHIP IN SURGERY - IS TRAINING REQUIRED?

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Presentation Description

Institution: Western Sydney Local Health District, NSW Health. - NSW, Australia

Background: Effective clinical leadership is critical for patient safety, staff well-being, and system-wide improvements. However, leadership education is not routinely embedded in health professional training. The Fostering Leadership Across Systems in Health (FLASH) program was designed to address this gap, providing a seven-month, evidence-based leadership course for doctors, nurses/midwives, and allied health clinicians in Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD). Program Description: FLASH is an interdisciplinary, interactive program incorporating expert-led workshops, leadership coaching, and shadowing experiences with senior leaders. Interprofessional Education (IPE) workshops, including a change management simulation, foster collaboration across disciplines. Participants: Since 2021, approximately 355 clinicians (145 doctors, 110 allied health professionals, 100 nurses/midwives) have completed FLASH. Outcomes are assessed through anonymous surveys and independent focus groups. Early findings indicate improved confidence, leadership engagement, and system-wide impact. Results & Impact: Participants report increased self-awareness, interpersonal skills, and advocacy confidence, leading to positive system changes and cross-network collaboration. FLASH fosters a sense of belonging and retention among clinicians. Conclusion: FLASH is a unique interprofessional leadership program addressing a critical training gap.
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Ms Jane Bolster - , Prof Sandra Turner -