In this episode of Consumer Health Partnerships, we speak with Melanie McKenzie from Harrison's Little Wings and Dr Chayel Klein an Obstetrician at the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, on the Preterm Birth Prevention Collaborative. 

Melanie McKenzie and Dr Chayel Klein explored the collaborative efforts to reduce preterm and early term births through consumer engagement and innovative practice changes.

Along with the importance of involving consumer representatives in healthcare projects to have patient-focused outcomes, they also discussed the challenges and successes of the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital's initiative, the impact of the discontinuation of the Foetal Fibronectin test, and the broader systemic issues in women’s health. 

Key Takeaways:

• Consumer involvement: Involving consumer representatives prioritises patient needs and personal experiences in healthcare projects.
• Effective communication: Early and consistent communication with consumers is crucial for effective feedback and engagement.
• Clear project goals: Clear project goals and remuneration helps new participants feel valued and committed to the project.
• Test discontinuation impact: The discontinuation of the Foetal Fibronectin test could impact rural services significantly.
• Partnership and goal-setting: Effective partnerships with consumer organisations and realistic goal-setting are essential for successful healthcare projects and achieving desired outcomes.

Links & Resources:

• Melanie McKenzie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-mckenzie-320b8542/?originalSubdomain=au
• National Preterm Birth Prevention collaboration: https://women.wcha.asn.au/collaborate/breakthrough-collaboratives/the-national-preterm-birth-prevention-collaborative/
• Harrison's Little Wings: https://harrisonslittlewings.org.au/staff-member/melanie-mckenzie/

"Consumer Health Partnerships” is a podcast for healthcare stakeholders that spotlights the synergistic power of partnering with consumers to share a human-centred health system. We share inspiring stories and practical strategies from healthcare professionals at the forefront of embracing a human-centred approach to patient experience and co-design. We are redefining care by respecting their patients’ equal place in conversations about their health.

This show is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.