Simon Patton is sharing his consumer insights in a new study looking to understand the consumer experience and perspective of receiving care delivered by Peninsula Health’s allied health assistant workforce.
In July 2022, Mr Patton underwent a below-knee amputation following the development of an ulcer that failed to heal. A two-week hospital stay, followed by three weeks of rehabilitation, meant that Mr Patton received care from more than one allied health clinician, with further support from allied health assistants.
“I was approached by Peninsula Health to come onto this research project as a consumer advisor, and I was more than happy to do so,” says Mr Patton.
“I was well looked after by staff at Peninsula Health and I think it’s important to share my consumer perspective.”
The research project – led by Peggy Vincent and Dr David Snowdon – is an initiative that
aims to better understand how the allied health assistant workforce can assist in the care and rehabilitation of patients at Peninsula Health.
“One of the biggest gaps in this area of research has been the inclusion of the consumer perspective,” says Dr Snowdon.
“Having Simon as part of the research team means we have a consumer who’s going to help us engage with other consumers in a way that’s meaningful for them.”
Mr Patton is one of the first consumers at Peninsula Health to join a research team and will actively participate in the analysis and communication of findings from consumer engagement workshops to be held in late 2024.
“I look at it as a great opportunity,” shares Mr Patton. “We’ve all been a consumer at one point or another, so being able to analyse the thoughts, opinions and insights of other consumers will help improve the delivery of allied health assistant care in Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula.”
“From my perspective, my involvement on this project will hopefully get more consumers engaged in the research being conducted,” adds Mr Patton. “I feel that if you involve and educate people with what’s being done while showcasing how this fades out into the community, it’s a wonderful thing.”