ORCID Profile
0000-0003-1636-8988
Current Organisations
University of Western Australia
,
Curtin University of Technology
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Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 27-06-2022
DOI: 10.1186/S12905-022-01845-4
Abstract: Adolescent girls appear more vulnerable to experiencing mental health difficulties from social media use than boys. The presence of sexualized images online is thought to contribute, through increasing body dissatisfaction among adolescent girls. Sexual objectification through images may reinforce to adolescent girls that their value is based on their appearance. This study explored how sexualized images typically found on social media might influence adolescent girls’ mental health, in positive and/or negative ways. In-depth interviews were conducted with girls aged 14–17 years (n = 24) in Perth, Western Australia. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Participants identified body image as a major concern, reporting negative appearance comparisons when viewing images on social media. Appearance comparisons were perceived to exacerbate adolescent girls’ appearance-based concerns. Comparisons also influenced adolescent girls’ efforts to change their appearance and seek validation on social media. The importance of awareness and education from a younger age about social media and its influence on body image was emphasized, as was the need for strategies to promote positive body image and counteract negative body image. The findings of this study have important implications for professionals working with adolescent girls and for the development of health promotion programs addressing social media use and body image concerns.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 26-05-2009
DOI: 10.1007/S00737-009-0080-7
Abstract: Depression during pregnancy is a significant public health problem because of its negative effects on the health of both mother and infant. Data on its prevalence and determinants are lacking in Bangladesh. To estimate the prevalence of depression during pregnancy and to identify potential contributory factors among rural Bangladeshi women, a community-based study was conducted during 2005 in Matlab sub-district, a rural area of eastern Bangladesh. Three hundred and sixty-one pregnant women were identified through an existing health and demographic surveillance system covering a population of 110,000 people. The women were interviewed at home at 34-35 weeks of pregnancy. Information on risk factors was collected through structured questionnaires, with the Bangla version of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS-B) used to measure their psychological status. Both univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression were applied using the SPSS 15.0 statistical software. The prevalence of depression at 34-35 weeks pregnancy was 33% (95% CI, 27.6-37.5). After adjustment in a multivariate logistic regression model, a history of being beaten by her husband either during or before the current pregnancy had the highest association with depression followed by having an unhelpful or unsupportive mother-in-law or husband, and family preference for a male child. Of the antenatally depressed women, 17 (14%) admitted to thoughts of self-harm during the pregnancy. This paper further explores the reasons why women have considered some form of self-harm during pregnancy. Depression during pregnancy is common among Bangladeshi women, with about a third being affected. The study highlights the need to allocate resources and develop strategies to address depression in pregnancy.
Publisher: Computers, Materials and Continua (Tech Science Press)
Date: 23-07-2014
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-10-2022
DOI: 10.1111/BIRT.12682
Abstract: To compare the health of neonates born to women who experienced family and domestic violence (FDV) 12 months prior to birth, with the health of neonates born to women with an earlier history of FDV and women with no history of FDV. A retrospective cohort of women who experienced FDV within 12 months of birth (antenatal FDV [AFDV]) (n = 1230) was identified using data from the Western Australia (WA) Police Force Incident Management System and WA Hospital Morbidity Data Collection. Two comparison cohorts were used, the first including women with a history of FDV (HFDV) 12-60 months prior to birth (n = 1549) and the second with no history of FDV (NFDV) recorded (n = 3690). Hospital, birth, mortality, and congenital anomaly data were used in generalized linear models to examine and compare neonatal health outcomes. Women in the AFDV group had higher proportions of factors associated with poor neonatal outcomes including smoking (42.4%), substance use (23.0%), and mental health disorders (34.8%). Neonates born to AFDV mothers had significantly higher odds of congenital anomalies (OR: 1.51, 95% CI: 1.18-1.94), low birth weight (1.74, 1.45-2.10), and preterm birth (1.48, 1.22-1.79) compared with neonates born to NFDV mother. Neonatal health outcomes in those born to AFDV women were not significantly different from those born to HFDV women. Antenatal and historical FDV were associated with poor neonatal health outcomes. Additional pregnancy and social support should be offered to women who have experienced FDV during or prior to pregnancy.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 18-03-2021
Publisher: 100 Families WA
Date: 2021
DOI: 10.25916/B914-1J34
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-10-2020
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 20-10-2014
Abstract: This study explored women’s experiences of their responses from health professionals following disclosure of domestic violence within a health setting. The existence of health-based policies guiding professionals in the provision of appropriate support following disclosure of domestic violence is only effective if health professionals understand the dynamics of violent relationships. This article focuses on the findings from the interviews conducted with 15 women living in the United Kingdom who disclosed their experiences of domestic violence when accessing health care. Following thematic analysis, themes emerged that rotated around their disclosure and the responses they received from health professionals. The first two themes revealed the repudiation of, or recognition of and failure to act upon, domestic violence. A description of how the health professional’s behavior became analogous with that of the perpetrator is discussed. The final theme illuminated women’s receipt of appropriate and sensitive support, leading to a positive trajectory away from a violent relationship. The findings suggest that the implicit understanding of the dynamics of violent relationships and the behaviors of the perpetrator of domestic violence are essential components of health care provision to avoid inadvertent inappropriate interactions with women.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 08-03-2023
DOI: 10.1136/BMJSRH-2022-201684
Abstract: There is a dearth of research investigating sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in children exposed to family and domestic violence (FDV). Further, there is no research on terminations of pregnancy in children exposed to FDV. This retrospective cohort study used linked administrative data from Western Australia to investigate whether exposure to FDV is associated with a risk of hospitalisations for STIs and terminations of pregnancy in adolescents. This study involved children born from 1987 to 2010 whose mother was a victim of FDV. Identification of family and domestic violence was from two sources: police and hospital records. This approach provided an exposed cohort of 16 356 and a non-exposed cohort of 41 996. Dependant variables were hospitalisations for pregnancy terminations and STIs in children aged from 13 up to 18 years of age. The primary explanatory variable was exposure to FDV. Multivariable Cox regression was used to investigate the association of FDV exposure and the outcomes. Following adjustment for sociodemographic and clinical factors, children exposed to FDV had an increased risk of hospitalisations for STIs (HR 1.49, 95% CI 1.15 to 1.92) and terminations of pregnancy (HR 1.34, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.63) as an adolescent than non-exposed peers. Children exposed to FDV are at an increased risk of hospitalisation for STI and termination of pregnancy as an adolescent. Effective interventions are needed to support children exposed to FDV.
Publisher: Herbert Publications PVT LTD
Date: 2014
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 29-09-2016
DOI: 10.1111/JAN.12809
Abstract: To investigate the relationships between participation in mothers' groups and social capital, social support and mental well-being measures for mothers whose oldest child was 0-5 years. Evaluations of facilitated mothers' groups have found positive benefits for information sharing and support. Mothers' groups often continue as parent-led groups however, little is known about the potential benefits of ongoing participation compared with non-participation. Cross-sectional survey. Data were collected through a survey from March 2013-January 2014 in Perth, Western Australia. The data from a subgroup of mothers (N = 313) whose oldest child was 0-5 years of age were analysed using multivariable regression. Participation in mothers' groups in the previous 12 months was investigated for associations with social capital {Neighbourhood Cohesion Index (NCI) Families, Social Capital and Citizenship Survey (FSCCS) and Reciprocity} social support {Medical Outcomes Study-Social Support Survey (MOS-SSS) and Parent Support Outside Home Scale (PSOHS)} and mental well-being {Warwick Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale (WEMWBS)}. Participation was measured as three groups - locally, outside area of residence and non-participation. Mothers who participated in mothers' groups locally scored significantly higher than those who had not participated in mothers' group for 'social capital' (NCI, FSCCS, Reciprocity), 'social support' (MOS-SSS, PSOHS) and 'mental well-being' (WEMWBS). Mothers who participated in mothers' group outside the area scored significantly higher than those who had not participated in mothers' groups for one measure of 'social support' (PSOHS). Participation in mothers' group locally may provide support and social capital benefits for mothers of children aged 0-5 years, which may influence mental well-being.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-11-2020
DOI: 10.1002/NOP2.721
Abstract: To explore the health workforce responses to COVID‐19. Analysis of job advertisements. We collected advertisements for healthcare jobs which were caused by and in response to COVID‐19 between 4 March–17 April 2020 for the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand. We collected information on the date of the advertisement, position advertised and location. We categorized job positions into three categories: frontline, coordination and decision support. We found 952 job advertisements, 72% of which were from the United States. There was a lag period between reported COVID‐19‐confirmed cases and job advertisements by several weeks. Nurses were the most advertised position in every country. Frontline workers were substantially more demanded than coordination or decision‐support roles. Job advertisements are a novel data source which leverages a readily available information about how workforces respond to a pandemic. The initial phases of the response emphasise the importance of frontline workers, especially nurses.
Publisher: Sciencedomain International
Date: 10-01-2015
Publisher: The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners
Date: 04-2018
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 24-09-2009
DOI: 10.1017/S0033291708004455
Abstract: Recent evidence suggests that the prevalence of postnatal depression (PND) is highest in low-income developing countries. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of PND and its associated risk factors among Bangladeshi women. The study was conducted in the Matlab subdistrict of rural Bangladesh. A cohort of 346 women was followed up from late pregnancy to post-partum. Sociodemographic and other related information on risk factors was collected on structured questionnaires by trained interviewers at 34–35 weeks of pregnancy at the woman's home. A validated local language (Bangla) version of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS-B) was used to measure depression status at 34–35 weeks of pregnancy and at 6–8 weeks after delivery. The prevalence of PND was 22% [95% confidence interval (CI) 17.7–26.7%] at 6–8 weeks post-partum. After adjustment in a multivariate logistic model, PND could be predicted by history of past mental illness [odds ratio (OR) 5.6, 95% CI 1.1–27.3], depression in current pregnancy (OR 6.0, 95% CI 3.0–12.0), perinatal death (OR 14.1, 95% CI 2.5–78.0), poor relationship with mother-in-law (OR 3.6, 95% CI 1.1–11.8) and either the husband or the wife leaving home after a domestic quarrel (OR 4.0, 95% CI 1.6–10.2). The high prevalence of PND in the study was similar to other countries in the South Asian region. The study findings highlight the need for programme managers and policy makers to allocate resources and develop strategies to address PND in Bangladesh.
Publisher: BMJ Publishing Group Ltd
Date: 03-2021
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-10-2016
Publisher: American Speech Language Hearing Association
Date: 12-07-2019
DOI: 10.1044/2019_LSHSS-18-0085
Abstract: Children who are deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) face a wide array of issues that can impact their mental health and well-being. This study aimed to explore the role of schools and classroom teachers in supporting the mental health and well-being of DHH children. A qualitative study comprising telephone and semistructured interviews with 12 mainstream school classroom teachers who directly support the education and well-being of DHH children was conducted. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Classroom teachers indicated they play an important role in supporting the mental health and well-being of DHH children but identified a range of constraints to providing this support. Four themes were identified: (a) “culture of professional practice,” (b) “operationalized practice,” (c) “constraints to practice,” and (d) “solutions for constraints.” Classroom teachers play an important role in supporting the mental health and well-being of DHH children but face several constraints in their practice, including limited training and awareness and access to resources. While further research is needed, this study suggests that classroom resources and teacher professional development are needed to enhance classroom teachers' understanding of how to support the mental health and well-being of DHH children.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 17-07-2014
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 07-2013
Abstract: In this study, domestic violence (DV) in five African refugee background communities post-settlement in Perth, Australia, is investigated—specifically, the interrelationship between experiences of DV, and changed and changing gender and family roles and responsibilities. The participatory qualitative design utilized in-depth interviews with 54 members of the Somalian, Sierra Leonean, Ethiopian, Liberian and Sudanese Communities, and focus groups with 24 professionals who support them. Three key dimensions of this interrelationship are discussed: “male loss of the breadwinner role and status,” “financial independence,” and “mismatch between formal response and expectations.” The importance of understanding experiences of DV within the context of cultural transition is highlighted here.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-2016
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 27-02-2021
Abstract: This study aims to determine the prevalence, and trends over time, of Western Australian (WA) mothers who were victims of intimate partner violence (IPV) requiring hospital admission. The study investigated the prevalence of all mothers and the specific prevalence of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal mothers. A population-based cohort study using de-identified linked health data of mothers of children born from 1990 to 2009 in WA was carried out. The prevalence of hospitalizations for IPV in mothers of children born in the period 1990-2009 (per 1,000 births) was calculated. Results indicate that the overall prevalence of hospital admissions for mothers assaulted 12 months prior to their child's birth month increased in the period 1990-2009, from 2.7 to 7.7 per 1,000 births. There was also an increase in the overall prevalence of hospital admissions of mothers who were assaulted 12 months prior to the birth month and 36 months after the birth month, from 8.9 per 1,000 births in 1990 to 19.4 per 1,000 births in 2009. In addition, being Aboriginal, having a mother <30 years of age, and being of low SES significantly increased the odds of having a mother with an IPV admission. This study highlights that while there has been an increase in the prevalence of IPV admissions for mothers of children born from 1990 to 2009 in WA, the level of prevalence has remained persistent for the last decade for the whole population. However, non-Aboriginal mothers have seen an increase in prevalence in the last decade. This increase is associated with the introduction of the Z63.0 code in
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2006
DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2005.11.065
Abstract: This paper addresses the limited sociological understanding of the phenomena of childbirth fear using data from a qualitative research project conducted in Western Australia. This qualitative study used an exploratory descriptive design, with 22 women identified as being fearful of birth participating in an in-depth interview. Data analysis using the method of constant comparison revealed that social context, explored within the framework of the medicalisation of childbirth, and the intervening circumstances in which the women gave birth, impacted on how and why they experienced fear. As such, this paper argues that fear of childbirth has social as well as personal dimensions and is both a prospective and retrospective phenomena. The analysis identified prospective fear as both social and personal. The social dimensions were labelled as 'fear of the unknown', 'horror stories' and 'general fear for the well-being of the baby'. Personal dimensions included the 'fear of pain', 'losing control and disempowerment' and 'uniqueness of each birth'. Retrospective fear was exclusively personal and was clustered around the themes of 'previous horror birth' and 'speed of birth'. The analysis also revealed two central factors that mediated against childbirth fear: positive relationships formed with midwives, and the support women received from their informal network. Understanding and unpacking the dimensions of women's childbirth fear, and understanding the nature of relationships that mediate women's fear, provides health care professionals with information on which to base potential intervention strategies and support women in ways that lessen rather than heighten their fear.
Publisher: Springer Publishing Company
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1891/1058-1243.25.3.162
Abstract: Informed choice is an expectation of today’s parents. Concern is evident around whether education models are evolving to ensure flexibility for parents to access options perceived as meeting their needs. Historical and current evidence around childbirth education models including the introduction of mindfulness to parent education will be presented. The aim of this article is to describe the rationale for incorporating adult and experiential learning with mindfulness-based stress reduction in a childbirth education program implemented in Western Australia. The curriculum of the Mindfulness Based Childbirth Education 8-week program is shared with corresponding learning objectives for each session. Ex les of educational materials that demonstrate how adult and experiential learning were embedded in the curriculum are presented.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 21-08-2012
Abstract: Many perpetrators of domestic violence engage in a perpetual cycle of forming sequential relationships while repeating violent behavior. Their methods of manipulation successfully dominate a partner, the outcome of the relationship being control and violence. This research study was influenced by a feminist standpoint epistemology, and was focused on the narratives of 15 women who chose to talk in great detail about the transition in their respective relationship from love to violence. The findings revealed three tactics, termed the princess effect, feeling vulnerable, and commitment, which were deployed by male perpetrators in the early stages of a relationship. The purpose of these tactics was to successfully engage and retain women, to then exert control, inflict violence, and subjugate them. A description of the initial act of physical violence is provided, revealing the impact of these tactics in meeting the ends intended by the perpetrator.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 13-05-2016
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 09-10-2018
Abstract: There is anecdotal recognition within the profession that novice occupational therapists who perform well at interview do not necessarily make the best practising clinicians. Further anecdotal evidence suggests that it is difficult to tell (at interview) which occupational therapists will follow which path and whether further training can achieve excellence in existing staff. What is it that makes the difference? What attributes do those truly 'excellent' clinicians have that makes them better than others? A two-round Delphi survey was utilised and 18 expert occupational therapists were purposively recruited from Perth's three adult tertiary hospitals. Panellists rated and ranked sixteen possible attributes that could comprise excellence in an acute practice occupational therapist. The final order of importance (from most to least) of the 16 possible attributes of excellence was determined. Communication, Self-management and Critical Thinking were found to be the three most important attributes, whereas Humility was considered the least important attribute. All attribute rankings achieved at least a low level of consensus. We now have a much clearer picture of what excellence looks like in the acute practice setting, giving managers a new understanding. There is now the possibility of integrating this information into both the recruitment of new staff and the professional development of existing staff. In this way we can move forward to a future that includes the active development of occupational therapy excellence in ways that were not possible before these results were available.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 11-2007
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 11-2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2018
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2013
Abstract: Comorbidity among mood, anxiety, and alcohol disorders is common and burdensome, affecting in iduals, families, and public health. A systematic and integrative review of the literature across disciplines and research methodologies was performed. Supradisciplinary approaches were applied to the review and the ensuing critical appraisal. Definitions, measurement, and estimation are controversial and inconstant. Recovery from comorbidity cannot be easily extricated from a sociocultural milieu. Methodological challenges in quantitative and qualitative research and across disciplines are many and are discussed. The evidence supporting current treatments is sparse and short-term, and modalities operating in isolation typically fail. People easily fall into the cracks between mental health and addiction services. Clinicians feel untrained and consumers bear the brunt of this: Judgmental and moralistic interactions persist and comorbidity is unrecognized in high-risk populations. Competing historical paradigms of mental illness and addiction present a barrier to progress and reductionism is an impediment to care and an obstacle to the integration and interpretation of research. What matters to consumers is challenging to quantify but worth considering: Finding employment, safe housing, and meaning are crucial to recovery. Complex social networks and peer support in recovery are important but poorly understood. The focus on modalities of limited evidence or generalizability persists in literature and practice. We need to consider different combinations of comorbidity, transitions as opposed to dichotomies of use or illness, and explore the long-term view and emic perspectives.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 22-04-2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.CHIABU.2019.05.007
Abstract: Previous research shows a co-occurrence between children's exposure to violence and child maltreatment. This study examined the risk of maltreatment allegations in children whose mothers had been hospitalised due to an assault. The study used a retrospective cohort of children born in Western Australia between 1990-2009 (N = 524,534) using de-identified linked-administrative data. Multivariate Cox regression determined the adjusted and unadjusted hazard ratios for child maltreatment allegation in children with a mother hospitalised for assault. Models were adjusted for a range of sociodemographic characteristics. One in five children had a maltreatment allegation following their mother's hospitalisation for assault. This increased to two in five children when the mother was assaulted in the prenatal period. Aboriginal children accounted for 57.6% of all allegations despite representing only 7.8% of the population. Children whose mother had a hospitalisation for assault were nine-times (HR = 9.20, 95%CI: 8.98-9.43) more likely to have a subsequent maltreatment allegation than children whose mother did not have a hospitalisation for assault. Following adjustment for confounding factors, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal children had an almost two-fold increased risk of maltreatment allegation (HR = 1.56, 95%CI: 1.43-1.70 HR = 1.93 95%CI:1.80-2.07). Our study shows that child maltreatment allegation is common in children following a maternal hospitalisation for assault. Targeted early intervention is required for families with young children, and pregnant women experiencing violence. Importantly service staff need awareness of the impact of violence on families and the appropriate services to refer families to.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 10-05-2022
DOI: 10.1177/15248380221090218
Abstract: Technology-facilitated abuse (TFA) is a significant, harmful phenomenon and emerging trend in intimate partner violence. TFA encompasses a range of behaviours and is facilitated in online spaces (on social media and networking platforms) and through the misuse of everyday technology (e.g. mobile phone misuse, surveillance apps, spyware, surveillance via video cameras and so on). The body of work on TFA in intimate relationships is emerging, and so this scoping review set out to establish what types of abuse, impacts and forms of resistance are reported in current studies. The scoping review examined studies between 2000 and 2020 that focused on TFA within intimate partnerships (adults aged 18+) within the setting of any of these countries: the UK and Ireland, USA, Canada, New Zealand and Australia. The databases MEDLINE, CINAHL and Scopus were searched in December 2020. A total of 22 studies were included in the review. The main findings were that TFA is erse in its presentation and tactics, but can be typed according to the eight domains of the Duluth Power & Control Wheel. Impacts are not routinely reported across studies but broadly fall into the categories of social, mental health and financial impacts and omnipresence. Similarly, modes of resistance are infrequently reported in studies. In the few studies that described victim/survivor resistance, this was in the context of direct action, access to legal or professional support or in the identification of barriers to resistance.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-05-2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2023
DOI: 10.1016/J.CHIABU.2022.105594
Abstract: Exposure to family and domestic violence (FDV) in childhood can have a detrimental effect on children's health and social outcomes. However, research on the school outcomes of children exposed to FDV is scant. To investigate the impact of FDV exposure on school attendance and suspension in Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal children. A population-based retrospective cohort study of school children, in grade 1 to 10, born from 1993 to 2006 in Western Australia (n = 26,743) using linked administrative data. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to calculate odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals to determine the association with school attendance and suspension outcomes for children exposed to FDV compared to non-exposed children. Compared to non-exposed children, children exposed to FDV have an increase of poor school attendance: Aboriginal children adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.91, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.75-2.07, non-Aboriginal children aOR = 2.42, 95%CI: 2.12-2.75. FDV-exposed children also have an increased risk of school suspension: Aboriginal children aOR = 1.60, 95%CI: 1.47-1.74, non-Aboriginal children aOR = 2.68, 95%CI: 2.35-3.05, compared to non-exposed counterparts. Exposure to FDV is associated with an increased odds of poor school attendance and school suspension. Evidence-based and innovative strategies are needed to support children who are exposed to FDV. This involves responding in ways that does not cause further trauma to children a restorative and trauma-informed approach is vital.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 11-2007
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2019
Abstract: To describe available public health jobs in Australia and New Zealand by comparing recent job advertisements. We screened vacancies from 14 online job boards for public health jobs in late 2018. Data collected included information on job titles, sector, contract tenure, location and salary. We compared our findings with those of a job advertisements study from 2005. We found 333 public health job advertisements in Australia and New Zealand. Common roles included project officers, researchers and managers. Nearly 40% of jobs asked for a 'tertiary' degree, with an additional 20% requiring a PhD degree. A qualification in public health was considered essential in 13% of job advertisements. Median annual salary range was $95,000-$111,365. There is not one specific public health job. Instead, such jobs are erse in role, sector, qualification level required and the salary they confer. Implications for public health: There is a demand for skilled workers to perform increasingly complex public health functions, but this may eventually be outpaced by graduate supply. Furthermore, while salaries are considerable, long-term positions are not, and this has implications for the sustainability of the public health workforce.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2021
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 27-06-2023
DOI: 10.1111/AJR.13013
Abstract: This study describes the experiences of eight mothers from the Wheatbelt region of Western Australia who shared their stories of travelling and/or temporarily relocating for birth. The aim of this study was to describe rural and remote Western Australian mothers’ experiences of travelling long distances and/or relocating to give birth. This study was based on Crotty's four elements of qualitative research. This study was underpinned by a constructivist epistemology, a feminist theoretical lens and a narrative approach using semistructured, story‐based interviews. Participants narrated their stories of birthing away from home by telephone interview. Five major themes were identified utilising thematic analysis. These were (1) feeling forgotten in the system, (2) accessibility and choice, (3) compounded social isolation, (4) doing it hard: financial and logistical challenges and (5) building strength: advocating for myself and baby. Mothers’ stories were reflective of current and historical failures of rural maternal health policy, including widespread closures of rural birthing hospitals. Mothers described the logistical barriers they faced with little support and suggested multiple solutions that would improve their experiences. Mothers faced significant obstacles which impeded their access to equitable maternal healthcare. This study highlights the complexities of birthing as a rural mother and the need to address maternal health inequities between rural and metropolitan women.
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 19-11-2020
DOI: 10.3389/FPUBH.2020.588092
Abstract: The delivery and coordination of public health functions is essential to national and global health, however, there are considerable problems in defining the people who work in public health, as well as estimating their number. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review was to identify and explore research which has defined and enumerated public health workforces. In particular, how were such workforces defined? Who was included in these workforces? And how did researchers make judgments about the size of a workforce? In this systematic review, we identified 82 publications which enumerated a public health workforce between 2000 and November 2018. Most workforce definitions were unique and study-specific and included workers based on their occupation or their place of work. Common occupations included public health nurses and physicians, epidemiologists, and community health workers. National workforces varied by size, with the United States and Switzerland having the largest public health workforces per-capita, although definitions used varied substantially. Normative assessments (e.g., assessments of ideal workforce size) were informed through opinion, benchmarks or “service-target” models. There are very few regular, consistent enumerations within countries, and fewer still which capture a substantial proportion of the public heath workforce. Assessing the size of the public health workforce is often overlooked and would be aided by fit-for-purpose data, alignment of occupations and functions to international standards, and transparency in normative methods.
Publisher: Computers, Materials and Continua (Tech Science Press)
Date: 12-03-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2020
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 05-05-2022
Abstract: The aim of this study was to examine the key sociodemographic characteristics of Australian mothers and their children who were victims of family and domestic violence (FDV) that resulted in the male perpetrator being criminally charged for the offense or the mother being hospitalized. A population-based retrospective cohort study using de-identified linked health and police data of mothers with children born 1987-2010 who were victims of FDV 2004-2008 was utilized. Results indicate that mothers who were identified in police data are different demographically from those identified in health data and differed again from mothers identified in both health and police data. Within Western Australia, 3% of the population identify as Aboriginal however, 44% of mothers identified as victims in police data and 73% within the health data were Aboriginal. Of the mothers identified in police data, 30% were under 25 years of age at their first assault recorded in police data compared with 21% in those identified in both police and hospital data. Most mothers identified as victims of FDV in police data had children present at their assault (60.6%). Prevalence of FDV exposure, identified in police data, was significantly different in Aboriginal children compared with non-Aboriginal children. Aboriginal children had a 19-fold (
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-05-2014
DOI: 10.1111/JAN.12435
Abstract: The aim of this study was to explore the ways that mothers' groups and playgroups support families with children aged 0-5 years and foster community connectedness in newer residential communities in Perth, Western Australia. The transition to parenthood is a time of increased support need. Changing community demography has resulted in a loss of traditional support structures and an increased need for local community initiatives to support families with young children. A qualitative descriptive design was used for this initial phase of a mixed methods sequential exploratory study. Data were collected between December 2011-August 2012. Interviews and focus groups conducted with 39 mothers provided insights from 16 mothers' groups and 13 playgroups. In addition, interviews were undertaken with three child health nurses and four local government early childhood staff. For the participants in this study, mothers' groups and playgroups provided opportunities to learn about parenting, to build a supportive network, to forge friendships and a connectedness to the local community. The families who relocated often experienced isolation until new groups and social networks were found. In general, where participation in mothers' groups and playgroups facilitated relationships with others from the local community, connectedness to that community was reported by participants to be enhanced. Mothers' groups and playgroups provide important community development opportunities and appear to help reduce potential isolation for mothers with young children. The findings are of interest to nurses and other health professionals working with families with young children.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2007.05.047
Abstract: This paper reports on the Australian component of a five nation study undertaken in Australia, Canada, Thailand, Bangladesh and Afghanistan examining policy networks that address women's health and domestic violence. It examines the relationship between health and domestic violence in Western Australia and analyses the secondary role assumed by health. The study adopted a qualitative research paradigm and semi-structured interviews. Snowball s ling was used to identify relevant and significant stakeholders and resulted in a final s le of 30 in iduals representing three key areas: the 'health policy community', the 'domestic violence prevention community' and 'other interested stakeholders', that is, those who have an interest in, but who are not involved in, domestic violence prevention work. Results suggest that the secondary positioning of health is associated with the historical 'ch ioning' of the issue in the women's movement limited linkages between the health policy community and the domestic violence prevention community and within the health policy community itself the 'fit' between domestic violence and the Western Australian Health Department mandate and the mis-match between domestic violence and the medical model. The conclusion indicates a need for collaboration based on effective links across the domestic violence community and the health policy community.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 03-2012
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-03-2021
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.332
Abstract: To explore adolescents’ experiences of access to and continued use of mental health services, and identify factors influencing their perceived satisfaction with their care. This paper focusses on the role of organisational and policy‐level factors in the mental health system. Qualitative semi‐structured face‐to‐face interviews with 22 adolescents aged 14‐18 years living in Perth, Western Australia. Adolescents identified key policy, systemic and service‐based factors which influenced their access to and continued use of mental health services. These were strongly related to the processes of service intake, level of orientation towards person‐centred care and adequacy of service resourcing and funding. Areas of concern for adolescents included, complex service intake procedures, suboptimal mental health service environments, lack of client‐centred care and the quality of mental health support provided in school settings. Our research has identified a wide spectrum of factors influencing mental health service access and use amongst adolescents. The findings further support the growing national consensus for major reform to address the mental health needs of this age group. The current strengths within mental health services and the system identified by adolescents need to be supported and extended. Although there have been numerous recommendations on ways to improve mental health service access and ongoing engagement for Australian adolescents, a number of the major challenges faced by this high‐risk population have shown little improvement. The findings of this research indicate the importance of now moving towards implementing meaningful plans for action.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-03-2016
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-09-2019
DOI: 10.1111/JPC.14618
Abstract: To describe neurodevelopmental outcomes among a cohort of Western Australian infants exposed to maternal meth hetamine use during pregnancy and to determine whether the Ages and Stages Questionnaire is a reliable screening tool for this population. Meth hetamine-using women were approached for participation when referred to the state-wide perinatal specialist drug and alcohol service for pregnancy care. Drug use during pregnancy was self-reported in each trimester using a standardised questionnaire. Ages and Stages Questionnaires were completed by infant care givers at 4 and 12 months, and development was formally assessed at 12 months using the Griffiths Mental Development Scales. Griffiths results for term-born infants in our cohort were compared to a Western Australian historical cohort of 443 healthy 1-2-year-olds. A total of 112 meth hetamine-using pregnant women participated in the study, who gave birth to 110 live-born infants. Ages and Stages Questionnaires were completed for 89 (81%) and 78 (71%) of the infants at 4 and 12 months, respectively. The Ages and Stages assessment identified 30 infants (33.7%) as having a potential developmental delay at 4 months and 29 infants (38.7%) as having a potential developmental delay at 12 months. Griffiths assessments were performed on 64 (58%) of the infants, with a mean general quotient of 92.7. This was significantly lower in term-born babies compared to the historical cohort (who had a median general quotient of 113.0). There was a weak correlation between 12-month Ages and Stages scores and Griffiths general quotients (r = 0.322) and no correlation between 4-month Ages and Stages Questionnaire scores and later Griffiths results. Infants born to women reporting meth hetamine use during pregnancy are at increased risk of developmental delay and may warrant enhanced developmental follow-up. However, they are a challenging group to follow due to complex psychosocial factors. Ages and Stages Questionnaires at 4 and 12 months were not helpful in screening for infants who had a developmental delay at 12 months.
Publisher: David Publishing Company
Date: 28-08-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.PEC.2011.04.037
Abstract: Changes in health care provision have led to an emphasis on providing end of life care within the home. community pharmacists are well positioned to provide services to community-based palliative care patients and carers. A multiple qualitative case study design was adopted. A total of 16 focus groups and 19 interviews with pharmacists, nurses, general practitioners and carers were undertaken across metropolitan and regional settings in Western Australia, New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria. Data were analysed thematically using a framework that allowed similarities and differences across stakeholder groups and locations to be examined and compared. Three main themes emerged: effective communication challenges to effective communication and: towards best practice, which comprised two themes: community pharmacists' skills and community pharmacists' needs. A key component of the provision of palliative care was having effective communication skills. Although community pharmacists saw an opportunity to provide interpersonal support, they suggested that they would need to develop more effective communication skills to fulfil this role. There is clear need for continuing professional development in this area - particularly in communicating effectively and managing strong emotions. Community pharmacists are willing to support palliative care patients and carers but need education, support and resources.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 09-06-2011
Publisher: Swansea University
Date: 30-08-2018
Abstract: IntroductionAlmost half of Australian women assaulted by their partner have children in their care. Evidence suggests a link between children’s exposure to violence, and subsequent maltreatment allegations. However, this evidence is limited by small s le sizes. Linked administrative data present an opportunity to further investigate this sensitive topic. Objectives and ApproachThis study investigated the relationship between assaults on mothers and subsequent child maltreatment allegations. The s le included all live births in Western Australia from 1990 to 2009 (N=524,534) and their parents, with follow up to 2013. Linked administrative data on child maltreatment allegations and mothers’ assault-related hospital admissions were obtained. Multivariate Cox regression estimated the risk of maltreatment allegation following maternal assault admission. Adjusted and unadjusted hazard ratios (HR) and 95\\% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for the risk of maltreatment allegation, and time (in months) between assault admission and the first maltreatment allegation. ResultsOne in five children whose mother had an assault admission had a subsequent maltreatment allegation, increasing to more than one in three children when restricted to assault admissions in the prenatal period. More than half of the children who had a maltreatment allegation after their mother was admitted for assault were Aboriginal. After adjusting for covariates, children whose mother had an assault admission had two-fold increased risk of having a maltreatment allegation. The risk of maltreatment allegation was greatest in young children, 5.5-year-old (SD=4.6), when restricted to maternal assault admissions in the prenatal period the children were younger at 4-year-old (SD=4.1). The time from maternal assault admission to maltreatment allegation was around 12 months longer for Aboriginal children than for non-Aboriginal children. Conclusion/ImplicationsChildren of mothers who have been assaulted are at higher risk of child maltreatment allegation. Targeted early intervention is required for families with young children, and pregnant women experiencing violence. The time to maltreatment allegation for Aboriginal children warrants community developed culturally-safe partnerships between Aboriginal communities and government services.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 03-12-2014
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 2011
Abstract: Palliative care emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach to care to improve quality of life and relieve symptoms. Palliative care is provided in many ways in hospices, hospital units, and the community. However, the greatest proportion of palliative care is in the community. In hospice and palliative care units in hospitals, clinical pharmacists are part of the interdisciplinary team and work closely with other health care professionals. Their expertise in the therapeutic use of medications is highly regarded, particularly as many palliative care patients have complex medication regimens, involving off-label or off-license prescribing that increases their risk for drug-related problems. However, this active involvement in the palliative care team is not reflected in the community setting, despite the community pharmacist being one of the most accessible professionals in the community, and visiting a community pharmacist is convenient for most people, even those who have limited access to private or public transport. This may be due to a general lack of understanding of skills and knowledge that particular health professionals bring to the interdisciplinary team, a lack of rigorous research supporting the necessity for the community pharmacist's involvement in the team, or it could be due to professional tensions. If these barriers can be overcome, community pharmacists are well positioned to become active members of the community palliative care interdisciplinary team and respond to the palliative care needs of patients with whom they often have a primary relationship.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-07-2011
DOI: 10.1111/J.1442-2018.2011.00613.X
Abstract: The shortage of nurses worldwide has taken its toll on the Australian healthcare system and, as a result, there is an increased migration of overseas-qualified nurses, some of them with a non-English-speaking background. Despite Australia's regulations that assess the eligibility for nursing registration, many migrant nurses who have been successful in gaining their nursing license feel only partially prepared to work. This article presents the findings of a study, based on Husserlian phenomenology, that describes the work experience of 13 female nurses who were working in Western Australia, Australia. The participants, who could recognize the core components of nursing, were taken aback by the way that nursing is practised in Western Australia. The major differences that they encountered were related to clinical skills, holistic care, the work dynamic with doctors and patients, and the overall societal status of the nursing profession. As a result, they had to adjust their practice to conform to the new work environment. In this study, the participants elaborated on some positive and some not-so-positive aspects of their experiences in their endeavor to integrate into the Western Australian metropolitan hospital setting.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 07-08-2020
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-10-2016
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 29-11-2020
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 27-12-2023
Abstract: This research explored adults’ perceptions of how sexualized images typically found on social media might influence adolescent girls’ mental health, what support girls might need should they experience mental health difficulties, and how such difficulties could be prevented or reduced. Qualitative data were collected using semi-structured in-depth interviews with parents of adolescent girls (n = 11) and those who provide support to them: school support service staff (n = 7) and youth mental health service providers (n = 10) located in Perth, Western Australia. All three participant groups perceived sexualized images typically found on social media as exacerbating poor mental health among adolescent girls. Two interrelated themes, emerged with participants describing the ‘potential for comparison’ and ‘pressure to conform’ they believed girls encounter on social media that influences their mental health. Participants also explained how they perceived ‘counteracting negative influences’ related to sexualized images on social media could prevent or reduce the potential for mental health harms among girls, and the importance of adults and services ‘keeping up to date’ and being ‘approachable and trustworthy’ when describing the support they believed girls might need. The findings of this study have important implications for the development of health promotion programs focused on social media use and mental health among adolescent girls.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-2017
DOI: 10.1071/HE15134
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 18-06-2022
DOI: 10.1186/S13023-022-02358-X
Abstract: People living with rare disease often have protracted journeys towards diagnosis. In the last decade, programs have arisen around the world that are dedicated to ending this ‘diagnostic odyssey’, including the Undiagnosed Diseases Program Western Australia (UDP-WA), which has a focus on finding diagnoses for children and young adults. To explore the lived experience of the diagnostic journey semi-structured interviews were conducted with parents of 11 children at commencement of their involvement in the UDP-WA. Thematic analysis revealed three main themes that captured parents’ experiences and perspectives. Parents reported (i) the need to respond to significant care needs of their children, which span not only the health system but other systems such as education and disability services. In doing so, parents become the navigator, expert and advocate for their children. Meanwhile, parents are on (ii) the diagnostic odyssey—the rollercoaster of their journey towards diagnosis, which includes various names applied to their child’s condition, and the impact of no diagnosis. Parents described their views on (iii) the value of a diagnosis and the outcomes they expect to be associated with a diagnosis. Analysis showed an overall significant perceived value of a diagnosis. Our study provides new perspectives on the concept of diagnosis and indicates that parents may benefit from supports for their child’s care needs that are beyond the scope of the UDP-WA.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 13-11-2012
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-12-2013
DOI: 10.1111/JMWH.12075
Abstract: This pilot study tested the feasibility and effectiveness of using Mindfulness-Based Childbirth Education (MBCE), a novel integration of mindfulness meditation and skills-based childbirth education, for mental health promotion with pregnant women. The MBCE protocol aimed to reduce fear of birth, anxiety, and stress and improve maternal self-efficacy. This pilot study also aimed to determine the acceptability and feasibility of the MBCE protocol. A single-arm pilot study of the MBCE intervention using a repeated-measures design was used to analyze data before and after the MBCE intervention to determine change trends with key outcome variables: mindfulness depression, anxiety, and stress childbirth self-efficacy and fear of childbirth. Pregnant women (18-28 weeks' gestation) and their support companions attended weekly MBCE group sessions over 8 weeks in an Australian community setting. Of the 18 women who began and completed the intervention, missing data allowed for complete data from 12 participants to be analyzed. Statistically significant improvements and large effect sizes were observed for childbirth self-efficacy and fear of childbirth. Improvements in depression, mindfulness, and birth outcome expectations were underpowered. At postnatal follow-up significant improvements were found in anxiety, whereas improvements in mindfulness, stress, and fear of birth were significant at a less conservative alpha level. This pilot study demonstrated that a blended mindfulness and skills-based childbirth education intervention was acceptable to women and was associated with improvements in women's sense of control and confidence in giving birth. Previous findings that low self-efficacy and high childbirth fear are linked to greater labor pain, stress reactivity, and trauma suggest the observed improvements in these variables have important implications for improving maternal mental health and associated child health outcomes. Ways in which these outcomes can be achieved through improved childbirth education are discussed.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 14-07-2021
Abstract: Background: It is not well understood what occupations public health graduates have after graduation, nor is it well known whether their education provides them with the relevant knowledge and skills to feel well matched to their occupations. Furthermore, it is commonly presumed that public health graduates work in government, and investments in education would bolster this workforce. Methods: We aimed to describe the common occupations of Australian public health graduates, describe the heterogeneity of graduate destinations, describe the level of mismatch that graduates report, and compare these results with other fields of study. We used eight years of Australian graduate survey data (2008–2015) from the Graduate Destinations Survey, examining outcomes data from 8900 public health graduates from four levels of education. We compared occupation and industry heterogeneity, and level of occupational mismatch between public health graduates, and graduates from other fields of education. Results: Public health graduates report having a broad set of occupations in a broad set of industries after graduation, and this breadth is dissimilar to most health degrees. Furthermore, public health graduates tend to have average or lower-than-average rates of mismatch. Conclusions: Despite going into a broad set of occupations and industries, graduates from public health tend to report being well prepared given their education. Given that both occupation and industry outcomes are heterogeneous for graduates, an investment in public health education does not guarantee an increase in the governmental public health workforce.
Publisher: The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners
Date: 2018
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 23-06-2022
DOI: 10.1002/AJS4.227
Abstract: Non‐physical abuse is a form of intimate partner violence (IPV), which negatively impacts physical and mental well‐being. The study objectives were to understand the process of support seeking amongst women who experience non‐physical IPV. Interviews were conducted with women who have experience of non‐physical IPV and support workers. The findings of this study suggest that women generally delay support seeking for non‐physical IPV as they are unable to recognise this form of violence. Increasing awareness about non‐physical IPV can be a prevention strategy to assist women in recognising this and seeking support. The important finding in our study that most of the women initially contacted a healthcare professional regarding the psychological impact of the non‐physical violence offers an opportunity for earlier intervention. Healthcare professionals are in a unique position to address the healthcare needs of women who experience IPV and can therefore assist in facilitating disclosure, offering support and referring to DV services. Training and education for professionals on all forms of IPV is required to improve identification and referral of women.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 26-08-2022
DOI: 10.1111/JPC.16179
Abstract: To investigate childhood (0-18 years) hospitalisation and emergency department (ED) contacts for epilepsy in Western Australian (WA) children exposed to family and domestic violence (FDV) pre 5 years of age compared to children with no FDV exposure. A retrospective, population-based cohort study included children born 1987-2010 who were identified as being exposed to FDV (n = 7018) from two sources: WA Police Information Management System and WA Hospital Morbidity Data Collection (HMDC) and a non-exposed comparison group (n = 41 996). Epilepsy contact was identified in HMDC and ED Data Collection records. Cox regression was used to estimate the adjusted and unadjusted hazard ratio and 95% confidence interval (CI) for epilepsy contact adjustment was made for a range of demographic characteristics known to impact health outcomes. Analyses were stratified by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander status to account for higher rates of FDV and epilepsy hospital admissions in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. Children exposed to FDV had a 62% (HR 1.62, 95% CI: 1.33-1.98) increased risk of epilepsy contact than non-exposed counterparts. Furthermore, the children exposed to FDV had a 50% longer average hospital stay for epilepsy than non-exposed children (4.7 days vs. 3 days, P = 0.006). When stratified by Aboriginal status, we found that Aboriginal children exposed to FDV stayed (on average) 2 days longer in hospital for epilepsy than their non-exposed counterparts (5.1 days vs. 3.1 days, P = 0.018). FDV exposure in early childhood is associated with increased risk of requiring secondary health care and longer hospital stays for childhood epilepsy.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 24-11-2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.SAPHARM.2012.08.001
Abstract: Currently, no review has been completed regarding the information-gathering process for the provision of medicines for self-medication in community pharmacies in developing countries. To review the rate of information gathering and the types of information gathered when patients present for self-medication requests. Six databases were searched for studies that described the rate of information gathering and/or the types of information gathered in the provision of medicines for self-medication in community pharmacies in developing countries. The types of information reported were classified as: signs and symptoms, patient identity, action taken, medications, medical history, and others. Twenty-two studies met the inclusion criteria. Variations in the study populations, types of scenarios, research methods, and data reporting were observed. The reported rate of information gathering varied from 18% to 97%, depending on the research methods used. Information on signs and symptoms and patient identity was more frequently reported to be gathered compared with information on action taken, medications, and medical history. Evidence showed that the information-gathering process for the provision of medicines for self-medication via community pharmacies in developing countries is inconsistent. There is a need to determine the barriers to appropriate information-gathering practice as well as to develop strategies to implement effective information-gathering processes. It is also recommended that international and national pharmacy organizations, including pharmacy academics and pharmacy researchers, develop a consensus on the types of information that should be reported in the original studies. This will facilitate comparison across studies so that areas that need improvement can be identified.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 23-11-2022
No related grants have been discovered for Colleen Fisher.