Dementia affects many South Australians, including people living with the condition and the families and carers who support them. Ensuring people with dementia receive safe, high-quality care is an important priority across the health system.
The Dementia Care Statewide Clinical Network (SCN) is being established to advance the safety and quality of care for South Australians living with dementia. The network brings together clinicians, consumers and subject matter experts to collaborate, share best practice and develop system-wide solutions that support person- and carer-centred care.
We recently welcomed Dr Sally Johns as the Clinical Lead for the SCN. A geriatrician and Senior Staff Specialist with the Northern Adelaide Local Health Network, Sally brings extensive experience across the full spectrum of dementia care, along with a strong track record in research, education and clinical leadership.
In this Q&A, she shares what drives her work in dementia care and her vision for improving outcomes across South Australia.
Could you tell us a bit about yourself and what drew you to this area of work?
As a geriatrician, I specialise in the care of older people, including dementia care. It is thoroughly rewarding to work with older people and support them through what can be a challenging time of receiving a dementia diagnosis and in the care that follows this diagnosis.
Why does dementia matter right now in South Australia?
We have many people in our community and in our health systems who are affected by dementia or are caring for someone with dementia. It is critical that we ensure that people with dementia receive the best care possible.
What is the key challenge or opportunity for improving dementia care across the SA health system?
We have the opportunity to improve the experience for people throughout their journey with dementia, including initial assessments and diagnosis, their ongoing care and for some, transitioning to Aged Care.
What motivated you to take on this Clinical Lead role?
I have had the privilege of working with a wide range of clinicians and experts in my clinical work and I am keen to harness this experience to progress the care of people with dementia in our state.
How will you approach leading this work?
I aim to work collaboratively with the members of the network other stakeholders to achieve the best possible outcomes for people living with dementia.