Episode 2: Sharlene Wiebenga
Sharlene is a seasoned health sector professional. She has applied science qualifications focused on health policy. She is not a clinician. She has worked across population health, diabetes, obesity, smoking, women's health and regulation. Policy and planning are the key areas.
She loves working with like-minded people. Regardless of the job function and background, the same goal needs to be shared. In general, these professionals have a social conscience. Make changes that are positive for people.
There is a shift in the community around risk appetite. In particular, this has been apparent with the COVID-19 pandemic and public health conditions. Health now looks at a range of issues and the public perception of many topics changes with time. Some examples include smoking, seat belt use in cars and skin cancer advice.
In the future, IT will dramatically change health services. Collecting data and using it to make decisions is becoming easier and faster. Algorithms are being used for predictive analysis and helping with the decision making process. As a result, the future work will; be higher-level functions, and the lower level roles can be handled by technology.
The health work environment is adaptive and dynamic. However, in the end, we are dealing with people. Therefore it is not just about numbers and data. We need to have sensitivity and realise we are dealing with peoples' lives.
When big decisions are made, it is essential to understand how this cascades down and impacts people other than yourself or your socio-economic group. Do not make assumptions without proper considerations and consequences for everyone. We live in a homogenous society.
Leaders now need to be adaptive to the changing workplace. Some people love working at home and can be more productive. However, this requires a different leadership style for a team that is not in the office daily. Models of communication need revisiting. What are the required structure and ways of working?
A balance is required. Be adaptive while focusing on the end-user or client requirements.