Our Length of Service Awards are fast approaching – you only have until tomorrow to RSVP to the event.
As we lead up to the big day, we will continue to share the stories of some amazing people who help keep Monash Health ticking.
Elizabeth Stephens is celebrating 40 years with Monash Health.
At the start of her career, Elizabeth Stephens worked as a Ward Clerk at Mordialloc Hospital, in 1983. The experience allowed her to develop a passion for providing quality care to her patients.
Forty years later, as a Grade 3 Mental Health Officer, her passion for providing care to her patients continues.
Working with her social worker colleagues, she takes pride in connecting patients with services and coordinating group activities and tasks to allow patients to develop key life skills.
“It gives me great pleasure to see a patient develop and expand skills in areas such as financial management.”
An important part of her role is helping to educate and develop appropriate behaviours for her patients so that they can engage with others in our community.
“I take patients on group outings in our community. We visit the shops, go out for lunch or take part in activities like bowling. These outings allow our patients to experience the community environment and have fun while participating as part of a team.”
Elizabeth describes herself as firm but fair in her approach to her work and patients. She sets clear boundaries and expectations early and has a willingness to listen to her patients. This creates strong partnerships where both carer and patient feel respected, leading to better healthcare outcomes for everyone.
A highlight of Elizabeth’s career is seeing long-term patients transition successfully from Secure Extended Care Units (SECU) to the less restrictive environment of community care units.
“I have been in my current role for 22 years, and it still gives me an immense sense of pride seeing my patients thrive as they make the transition from the SECU to the community care units.”
Elizabeth also assists with the Quit Program and engages with patients about how to quit smoking and the effects that smoking has on their health.
As Elizabeth reflects on her time at Monash Health, she thinks she has been lucky to work with good teams and has always found a supportive environment to explore and work across different areas, including general, mental and acute health.
Approved by Louise Kanis, Executive Director, Communication and Engagement and Paula Hakesley, General Manager, Mental Health Program