Thank you, South Metropolitan Health Service (SMHS) doctors! We asked you to help us co-design a new doctor support unit at SMHS.
We listened to your input and The Doctor Support Unit has now been launched.
Please visit our SharePoint Hub for more information: SMHS Doctor Support Unit
We’ve heard and we are acting to improve the workplace environment for medical staff. We are committed to improvement and recognise there is much to be done and we’re ready to roll up our sleeves and make it happen.
The SMHS Doctor Support Unit (DSU) is initially a one-stop shop for all Doctors in Training (DiT) workplace queries.
This central SMHS unit supports the professional development and health and wellbeing of DiTs. The unit will deliver a transparent and modern service to rostering, leave requests and overtime and on-call claims.
Delivering the initial phases of the SMHS DSU is a collaboration between SMHS Clinical Services, Fiona Stanley Fremantle Hospitals Group Medical Education and SMHS Workforce.
Our pledge to you is to:
Ultimately, this central SMHS unit will support all SMHS doctors, and this is a big task. So, it will be a phased approach co-designed with doctors and key stakeholders.
We’ve started by bringing together medical workforce, medical education, and medical strategy and service improvement teams at one location on level 2, Education building, Fiona Stanley Hospital.
For now, all doctors, other than DiTs, will continue to access support through normal processes. And, we won’t be leaving you behind. We will keep you updated as changes are made.
During consultation for DSU branding elements, 48% of the respondents ranked 'DSU home' as their first choice. The feedback gathered across 121 responses offer valuable insights into your aspirations and priorities regarding the branding elements.
This option was widely perceived as a symbol of safety and care, often described as a ‘home base’ offering protection from stressors. Its association with doctors and healthcare services was clear, evident in comments praising its doctor-focussed design. Respondents appreciated its sleekness, simplicity, and alignment with the SMHS colour palette. Overall, the simplicity, visual appeal, and alignment with SMHS values made this a standout choice.
This option was praised for its uniqueness to Western Australia (WA). It was perceived as warm and non-corporate, with positive associations with the heart and tree symbols. The modern flat iconography was appreciated, especially for its representation of support and connection to nature and Aboriginal culture. Overall, this option was seen as visually appealing, professional yet authentic, and imbued with cultural symbolism and warmth.
This option was characterised by its representation of community and support. Respondents appreciated the simplicity and effectiveness, with specific praise for the legibility of the text. The branding was seen as symbolising peace and support, and the design was perceived as modern and clean. Its connection to nature and health, along with its friendly and comforting appearance, resonated well with respondents.
