The Australian Digital Health Agency has appointed Karen Booth, President of the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA), as its inaugural Chief Clinical Adviser (Nursing).

Ms Booth, a highly respected and experienced nurse with a background in primary care, preventative care, clinical government and leadership, said she was honoured and excited to join the Agency to ensure nurses’ perspectives are included and represented in its initiatives and programs.

“I have always been dedicated to enhancing health outcomes for Australians, especially in primary and preventative care settings,” Ms Booth said.

“Nurses play a crucial role in providing safe, high-quality, person-centred care, and I know first-hand that digital health technologies and capabilities can improve their abilities, knowledge and practice.”

Agency CEO Amanda Cattermole PSM described Ms Booth’s appointment as a significant milestone for the Agency and the digital health sector, as it augments and strengthens the Agency’s clinical leadership alongside the recent appointment of Dr Amandeep Hansra as its Chief Clinical Adviser (Medicine).  

“Ms Booth is an influential leader who has been advocating for the role of nurses in digital health for many years. She has been a key contributor to the advancement of digital health in the nursing profession and played a pivotal role in the future of the Australian healthcare system as a member of the Strengthening Medicare Taskforce. I am thrilled to welcome her to the Agency and look forward to her guidance and advice on how to better support the nursing workforce in the adoption and use of digital solutions.”

Ms Cattermole said the Chief Clinical Adviser (Nursing) role would enable even greater engagement with the nursing workforce in Australia, who make such a significant contribution to the health and wellbeing of Australians.    

“Ms Booth will provide us with valuable insights and guidance on how to better support nurses in the adoption of digital health,” Ms Cattermole said.