Public health care is set to receive a boost this week, with 105 new nursing and midwifery graduates launching their careers on the Central Coast.
Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said obtaining qualifications in nursing and midwifery provides many opportunities.
“I’m very pleased to welcome 99 new graduate registered nurses and six new graduate midwives to begin their unique and rewarding career at the Central Coast Local Health District,” Mr Crouch said.
“Around the clock, 365 days a year, our nurses and midwives are on the front line of the NSW public health system.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has reminded all of us that nurses, midwives, doctors, allied health professionals and other health staff play a critical role in keeping our community safe and well.
“Being the very proud husband of a nurse has given me a unique insight into the dedication of these staff. Working as a health care professional is more than a job, it’s a vocation.”
District Director of Nursing and Midwifery at the Central Coast Local Health District Lynne Bickerstaff thanked the new graduates.
“The new graduates will take part in 12 month programs which provide support during their transition from student to practitioner,” Ms Bickerstaff said.
“New nurses will work across Wyong, Gosford and Woy Woy Hospitals in clinical areas including paediatrics, surgery, medicine, aged care, mental health, critical care and rehabilitation. Our new midwives will work across different areas in maternity services at Gosford Hospital.”
More than 2,500 graduate nurses and midwives will start work at about 130 public hospitals and health services in NSW this week.
More than 54,000 nurses and midwives currently work in the NSW public health system, an increase of 24.7 per cent since 2011.
