New meal options for Mental Health consumers at Macquarie Hospital
Date published: 25 Oct 2023
Author: Lauren McColl
Consumers at Macquarie Hospital now have more choice available at mealtimes following the launch of some new menu items, including build your own (BYO) burrito bowls and sandwiches. The new options have arrived following the success of a recent taste testing event organised by our Food Service Reform and Operations teams earlier in the year.
The ‘build your own’ service concept aims to empower consumers to actively participate in the mealtime experience. Consumers choose from an array of ingredients prepared by the food service team, such as meats, salads, and other fillings, to assemble their own customised wraps, sandwiches, or burrito bowls. This approach fosters a greater sense of autonomy and well-being, reflecting our commitment to delivering a more personalised and patient-centric experience.
Taste tested and approved
The introduction of the 'build your own’ option follows a taste testing event held earlier this year. During the event, consumers had the opportunity to sample various offerings and provide their feedback, which guided the menu development process and supported the decision to introduce new meals. The burrito bowl received one of the highest tasting scores from consumers on the day, making it a natural choice for inclusion in the new menu.
Early feedback is already delivering positive results, with many consumers and Local Health District clinicians expressing their appreciation for the increased variety and customisable options now available.
Amitha Mather, Manager Food Service Reform, shared her enthusiasm for the response received.
“It’s important to involve consumers in the decision-making process. Rolling out these new options is an exciting milestone – and all driven by the feedback consumers provided us. It shows them that we’re listening and always striving to provide a service that caters to their needs,” she said.
An A-team effort
The new menu options are the product of strong collaboration between HealthShare NSW Patient Services and Planning teams, and Northern Sydney Local Health District. Our Operations and Food Service Reform teams worked closely with LHD Dietitians and Nursing staff to drive real operational change.
“We’re incredibly proud of this collaboration and what the team has achieved,” said Amitha. “A special mention goes to Acting Operations Manager Gaurang Gandhi for his work in leading the team during the implementation process.”
Gaurang led refresher training for his staff to ensure they were well equipped to implement the new menu options seamlessly. He also introduced new serving trays and soup kettles to improve presentation and create consistency across the different units on site.
Yvonne Lukic, People and Operations Lead for Food Service Reform echoed the praise for Gaurang’s commitment to creating a positive atmosphere for consumers.
“Gaurang has done such an amazing job. His dedication, willingness, and care towards improving the consumers meal experience is commendable,” she said.
These improvements are paving the way for a better patient experience for Mental Health consumers. Congratulations to the team at Macquarie.
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