Two SCHN finalists at NSW Health Excellence in Allied Health Awards

Allied Health professionals at Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network have been recognised in the 2021 NSW Health Excellence in Allied Health Awards for their excellence in research and leadership.

The NSW Health Excellence in Allied Health Awards acknowledge the passion, dedication and contribution of allied health staff across the state, as well as the valuable input the professions have in delivering patient-centred care.

Dr Cathryn Crowle, Senior Occupational Therapist and Co-Lead of Research in the Grace Centre for Neonatal Intensive Care and Andrea Worth, Network Co-Head of Psychological Medicine-Allied Health, were this week announced as finalists in the inaugural and prestigious awards.

Dr Crowle has been nominated for Allied Health Researcher/Educator of the Year. This award recognises exemplary contribution to research to enhance Allied Health service delivery.

Dr Crowle is renowned as an accomplished researcher with expertise in early detection and intervention for neurodevelopmental disorders, with a particular focus on cerebral palsy. Her work has transformed clinical practice and had a huge impact on the care of babies in The Children’s Hospital at Westmead’s Grace Centre for Newborn Intensive Care. Her research has also helped ensure infants are now screened for risk of cerebral palsy from birth.

Andrea Worth has been nominated for Allied Health Leader of the Year. This award celebrates a ‘visionary’ leader who continually exhibits excellence in leadership, as well as skills to support, mentor and coach staff.

With a social work career spanning more than two decades, Andrea is recognised for the way she supports, empowers and upskills the allied health staff she leads in Psychological Medicine. Throughout her career, Andrea’s leadership capabilities have shaped her ability to foster relationships with the members of her department, identify and build on their strengths, and grow their contribution to the Network.

The impact of Andrea’s work has been far-reaching, both helping sick children and their families, as well as those she works with.

“The achievements of both Cathryn and Andrea exemplify the important role allied health deliver across the SCHN and we are proud to be represented by these two exemplary professionals in this year’s awards,” Paula Bray, Director of Allied Health at SCHN said.

The winners will be announced in the inaugural award ceremony which will be held in Darling Harbour on Monday, February 28.