Student helps future-proof allied health workforce

CheckUP is delighted to continue our long-standing support of Griffith University’s Work Integrated Learning program, valuing the opportunity to play a role in supporting students who are eager to bring innovative approaches to our workplace.

Philomena Tatireta, who is undertaking a Master of Advanced Health Services Management at Griffith University, joined CheckUP in the later half of 2021 for a placement, working remotely from Papua New Guinea to undertake a project with our outreach team.

“The project I supported with, had an aim to future-proof allied health workforces in rural and remote parts of Queensland,” she said.

“This was to be done through enhanced student outreach placements using a multidisciplined or integrated approach with key stakeholders in areas that need healthcare the most.

“Prior to commencing my Work Integrated Learning placement with CheckUP, I had envisioned gaining invaluable insights and wisdom fon how I can effectively and efficiently serve rural and remote populations better; as a health service manager and with a particular focus on the health project space.

“The Outreach team and my Work Integrated Learning placement supervisor were amazing. Despite the fact that it was difficult for me to do my placement in person, they made the environment nurturing and provided astounding support to help me succeed every step of the way.”

In terms of aspects of the placement that contributed the most to the educational experience, Philomena said,”For me this would pertain to the initiation and planning phases of the project where I was able to refine and apply fully the theory-based knowledge and skills gained during my master’s programme to solve a real-life problem. The most common subject areas that were applied and enhanced during my placement were from the project management course, health economics and health workforce theories.”

CheckUP is appreciative to Philomena for her contributions and congratulates her on being one of only four students in her cohort that received Outstanding Achievement Awards for their Work Integrated Learning placements.

As for the future, Philomena says she plans on transitioning to a higher education program in the field of health economics, “to support my country manage its scarce resources efficiently