NSW Hospitals Empower Parents with “Worried They’re Getting Worse” Initiative to Enhance Child Safety
NSW public hospitals are implementing a groundbreaking new tool designed to prioritize a critical voice in pediatric care: the parents and caregivers who know their children best. Developed by the Clinical Excellence Commission, and informed by recent research from Monash Health, the “Worried they’re getting worse” initiative aims to improve early detection of deterioration in a child’s condition.
recognizing the Parent’s Perspective
This isn’t just about adding another checklist. It’s a fundamental shift in how healthcare teams gather information. The core of the program is a simple, yet powerful question: “Are you worried they are getting worse?” This question will be routinely asked of families in emergency departments and inpatient pediatric and neonatal units across the state.
Why is this so meaningful? Parents and caregivers often notice subtle changes in a child’s behavior, temperament, or overall well-being before clinical signs like altered heart rate or breathing become apparent. These early observations are invaluable.
“Parents and carers can recognize small changes in a child’s condition sometimes before healthcare workers can observe changes,” explains NSW Health Minister Ryan Park. “Feedback from parents and carers is critical in capturing information about a child who is becoming seriously unwell.”
How the System Works
when a parent or caregiver expresses concern, it immediately triggers a review by a senior healthcare worker. This ensures that those vital observations are taken seriously and investigated promptly. The initiative isn’t intended to replace existing monitoring procedures, but to enhance them with the crucial insights of those who know the child intimately.
Phased Rollout & Expansion
The “Worried they’re getting worse” tool was initially trialed in March at Hunter New England Local Health District, demonstrating promising results.A statewide rollout began on July 21st at The Sydney Children’s Hospital Network. All NSW public hospitals are expected to have the tool fully implemented by October.
Looking ahead, the program’s success will pave the way for expansion into maternity and adult wards in early 2026, demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care across the entire NSW Health system.
Strengthening the Safety Net: REACH Program
This initiative complements the existing REACH program, already available in all NSW public hospitals. REACH allows parents and caregivers to directly request an urgent review by a senior health worker when they have serious concerns about their child’s condition. together, these programs create a robust safety net, empowering families to advocate for their children’s health.”We know staff right across the NSW public health system work incredibly hard,” says Secretary of NSW Health Susan Pearce AM. “This new initiative recognises the vital role parents and carers play in their child’s care alongside our excellent healthcare professionals. By working together, we can strengthen patient safety for children and babies and provide an habitat where parents and carers are encouraged and empowered to raise concerns.”
A Collaborative Approach to Care
The “Worried they’re getting worse” initiative represents a significant step forward in pediatric care in NSW. By actively listening to and valuing the observations of parents and caregivers, hospitals are fostering a more collaborative and ultimately safer environment for their youngest patients. this program underscores the understanding that the best care is delivered when healthcare professionals and families work together as a team.
