As we head into the last month for 2023 it is a good time for us to stop and take stock of everything we have achieved collectively as a College and individually across our workplaces for the advancement of RACMA and Medical Leadership.
Taking a brief snapshot of 2023 for RACMA, here are some of the key achievements and developments which have and will have great impact on the way we move forward as a College.
- Custodianship of the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care’s ‘A Better Culture’ project.
- Publication of the College’s first Scope of Practice document to ensure RACMA can now clearly define the core role and contribution of Medical Leaders within the health system.
- Amendments to the College Constitution to ensure it is contemporary and flexible to allow the College to be agile in the future.
- Many Fellowship Training Program Renewal Project consultations to ensure we have a training program which meets the needs of RACMA Candidates and the communities they serve.
- Tailoring bespoke offerings based on well-regarded Leadership for Clinicians and Management for Clinicians programs for a range of settings and organisations.
- The College’s first Study Tour in the UK provided the global networks, connections and learnings that our Members are seeking.
- Taking the front foot with government Health Ministers across all jurisdictions to keep them regularly informed of the status of Training Posts linked with specialist training for RACMA Candidates.
- The swift and expert development of numerous responses and submissions to many key healthcare consultations via government and industry bodies.
- Key meetings with Australian Government health officials, Ahpra, the New Zealand Medical Council, key Aotearoa health/government bodies, Australian Medical Students Association (AMSA), the UNSW Centre for Future Health Systems and other medical colleges to explore opportunities to further collaborate.
- Strengthening relationships with Australian Indigenous Doctors Association (AIDA), the Leaders in Indigenous Medical Education Network (LIME), the Lowitja Institute and the Māori Medical Practitioners Association Te Ora.
- Publishing a position statement to recognise RACMA’s commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its principles, rights, and obligations.
- Development and planning of the next College Strategic Plan to be implemented in July 2024.
- RACMA 2023 in Auckland provided a culturally rich and diverse learning environment for all attendees.
- Commencement of the multi-million dollar technology project ‘Project Nexus’ which aims to deliver a contemporary Member relationship and training management system.
- The College website was refreshed to be “persona” driven, making it more user friendly and in line with College branding.
I could go on. But I want to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for the incredible effort and dedication form the College office and Members. The hard work has not gone unnoticed, and I am truly impressed and proud of the results. It sets us up for yet another fruitful year in 2024.
With all of this in mind, I encourage each of you to prioritise your wellbeing and take some well-deserved time to relax and recharge during the upcoming holiday season. This time of year is not just about meeting deadlines and achieving targets; it’s also an opportunity to reflect, spend quality time with loved ones, and focus on self-care.
Take the upcoming break to reflect on your accomplishments and the positive impact you’ve made. Use the time to recharge, relax, and engage in activities that bring you joy.
Importantly, cherish moments with family and friends. Disconnect from work-related stressors and fully immerse yourself in the joy of the holiday season.
Pay attention to your physical and mental well-being. Whether it’s a good book, a walk in nature, or simply a moment of quiet reflection, make time for self-care.
Let’s all approach the new year with a positive mindset, focusing on the possibilities and opportunities it brings.
Remember that your health and happiness are paramount, and I encourage each of you to return in the new year with renewed energy and enthusiasm. Our collective success is a result of the contributions of everyone, and I want to ensure that you feel supported not only in your professional endeavours but also in your personal well-being.
It’s a pleasure working with such talented and motivated colleagues. I look forward to our continued success together in 2024.
Wishing you all a safe and joyful holiday season filled with peace, love, and laughter.
As always, if you have any ideas or feedback about the future direction of the College and its work, please email me president@racma.edu.au.
Kind regards
Dr Helen Parsons CSC FRACMA
RACMA President
Author: Felicity Gallagher
27th November 2023
