The HCF Research Foundation has awarded $1.4 million in Translational Research Grants (TRG) to four projects aimed at addressing critical challenges in Australian healthcare.
The grants focus on translating research into practical solutions, particularly in hospital safety, aged care, and addiction recovery.
Dr Chris Pettigrew, head of the HCF Research Foundation, explained that the foundation prioritises initiatives that bridge the gap between evidence-based studies and their application in real-world settings.
“Our TRG scheme bridges the gap between research and real-world application, equipping healthcare providers with the tools to implement innovations that make a tangible difference. These grants are more than research; they’re investments in better care and healthier outcomes for Australians,” he said.
A project led by Prof. Kate Curtis at the University of Sydney seeks to reduce hospital-based patient harm through a standardised nursing assessment tool.
The HIRAID framework, already successful in emergency departments, will be adapted for use in general hospital wards. This initiative aims to prevent infections, adverse events, and other complications by enhancing nursing care protocols.
University of Newcastle researcher and surgeon Associate Prof. Christine O’Neill is leading a study to incorporate geriatric care into surgical teams.
The project builds on successful trials that improved recovery and reduced complications for older patients. It aims to extend this model to elective surgeries, including urology and vascular procedures, to address the unique needs of ageing patients.
Leigh Darcy of Hunter Primary Care is exploring the adaptation of a successful urban nurse practitioner (NP) model to rural aged care settings.
The initiative will test the feasibility of deploying NPs in regional areas where access to healthcare services for elderly residents is often limited. This model focuses on improving primary care for aged care residents with chronic conditions.
Eastern Health’s Dr Ari Roxburgh is piloting a digital recovery platform called REC-CAP, designed to support peer workers in assisting patients overcoming addiction.
The tool enables peer workers to create tailored recovery plans, address challenges, and build long-term resilience. The project aims to reduce detox readmissions and enhance care quality during the critical post-withdrawal phase.
