Consisting of members from the community, the Health Service Reference Group has been implemented to assist the Board with:
·advice on major strategic issues and initiatives relevant to the health of our community;
·broad strategic planning and policy development processes which contribute to the development of MDHS services in the community;
·two way communication process between MDHS and the community; and
·other key components as outlined in the Terms of Reference for the Health Service Reference Group.

The Health Service Reference Group meets four times per year rotating between our three campuses (Avoca, Dunolly and Maryborough).

Jean Anderson, President of the MDHS Board of Management, also chairs the HSRG committee and was responsible for instigating the original proposal to establish the group several years ago. Jan Watts is the second Board of Management member also belonging to HSRG, and the remaining five committee members are representatives from the community who volunteer their time and expertise to assist in strategic planning and policy development which contributes to the development of MDHS services within the community.

Community members of the Health Service Reference Group include:

Ms Tricia Walsh, Maryborough
Mr Maurice Lekamge, Daisy Hill
Mr Martin Saul, Bowenvale
Mrs Margaret Pilgrim, Homebush (near Avoca) 
Ms Catherine Thompson, Maryborough

From MDHS—Peter Appledore (CEO), Fiona Brew (EDON) and Louisa Taylor (Director of Community Services) attend each meeting along with the Directors of Nursing from Avoca and Dunolly when the meetings are held at their particular campus.

As well as the normal processes open to any community member, community members can contact either the CEO, Mr Peter Appledore, or the relevant campus Director of Nursing regarding issues of concern.

Community members can also contact the relevant Health Service Reference Group member in their communities regarding improvements or additions to current service provision.

A review of the structure and processes of the HSRG is currently underway, with members of the community recently invited to meetings held in Dunolly, Avoca and Maryborough, to provide feedback and suggestions, and assist in identifying issues relevant to consumers of MDHS services. 

If you are interested in becoming part of the Health Service Reference Group and representing your community to the Health Service, please contact the PA to the CEO on 03 5461 0301 for further information.