Ronelle was asked what motivated her to start her Professional Doctorate in Health at Victoria University:
For the last 15 years, I have worked within the residential aged-care sector in a variety of roles
while I had the opportunity to complete my Bachelor of Arts (Education), Master of Clinical Practice (Nursing) and my postgraduate diploma in Nursing. During this time, I have been fortunate to witness the positive impact research and nurse-led projects can have on our healthcare system and decided early on that I wanted to join these pioneers in making a positive impact through research for those who are entrusted in our care.
With never-ending support and encouragement from a very
large group of individuals, I have been given the privileged opportunity of embarking on the journey to do my Professional Doctorate in Health at Victoria University. Delivering high-quality care within residential aged care is becoming increasingly challenging within a global and national healthcare climate that has not recognised the evolving complexities that challenge residents, their families and frontline staff. As a result, the sector continues to be plagued by stigma and underfunding, making it an unfavourable sector to work in for many healthcare professionals. I have been motivated by the commitment of the staff around our homes who turn up each day and do
their best despite the challenges they face, to ensure the best outcomes for residents. My goal for my Doctoral studies is therefore to provide a voice to these frontline workers to highlight these challenges and let them provide solutions, as I believe the solutions are among the many voices who often feel disenfranchised or unsure of how they can contribute to the positive changes that is needed within this ever-changing environment.
Upon completion of my Doctorate, I hope to instigate positive change within the residential-aged sector which would result in it becoming the sector of choice to work in for many to ensure a highly skilled and passionate sustainable workforce.
