LEETON paramedic Matthew Simpson has shown he is among the cream of the crop by taking out a coveted award last week.
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Mr Simpson was named the Young Leader Award winner at the HESTA Primary Health Care Awards last Tuesday in Melbourne, for his work in driving greater patient care through mentoring, training and improving processes for paramedics.
Working as a paramedic specialist – intensive and extended care with NSW Ambulance, Mr Simpson is highly skilled and brings a broad range of practical experience and clinical knowledge to the delivery of patient-focused care.
Mr Simpson was proud to accept the honour.
“Life as a NSW Ambulance paramedic is challenging and rewarding,” he said.
“Sharing of knowledge between peers and across health professions is essential and being actively engaged within the health care community allows clinicians to work collaboratively to improve conditions and processes from the inside out.
“I mostly work Leeton ... Dealing with people during a time of crisis and when they’re most vulnerable is challenging, more so because they are people I know.
“I love what I do.
“Especially the community and family support that comes with working in a small town.”
The annual awards recognise the dedication and professionalism of those working at the frontline of health care.
They include physiotherapists, dentists, pharmacists, therapists, GPs, rehabilitation professionals, health educators and medical practice managers.
Mr Simpson is highly-regarded by his peers for his approachability and openness when debriefing after difficult situations and for taking time to educate and support colleagues by providing mentoring and emotional support where necessary.
He said taking on those roles was all part of the job he enjoyed doing each day.
“For paramedics, providing mental and emotional support is critical to what we do,” Mr Simpson said.
“Currently, we do have a situation around mental health.
“Mental health is not a separate health condition, it is a health condition.”
For his efforts in taking out the award, Mr Simpson received $5000 to be used for furthering his education, as well a further $5000 as part of the honour.
HESTA chief executive officer Debby Blakey presented Mr Simpson with the award.
“We are pleased to recognise the leadership and commitment shown by Mr Simpson to his profession,” Ms Blakey said.
“(We also) acknowledge the diversity of disciplines necessary to deliver outstanding levels of care and better health outcomes.”
