From Multicultural Roots to Patient Care

Growing up in a multicultural community as a Filipino migrant, Giuliano Villafane witnessed firsthand how language and cultural barriers could sometimes impact patient care. This early observation sparked a desire in him to contribute to a field where patient safety is vital and cultural differences are acknowledged and respected.

This aspiration led him to St John Ambulance Victoria, being the first to complete the HLT31120 Certificate III Non-Emergency Patient Transport as a result of a funding provided by Scanlon Foundation, which focus on building pathways to employment, a perfect fit for his career goals. This role allows Giuliano to combine his passion for healthcare with his commitment to supporting others, particularly during their most vulnerable moments.

However, without this support, Giuliano wouldn’t have been able to complete his studies. “The funding has played a pivotal role in my journey from a student to a NEPT Officer. The financial support provided by the Foundation allowed me to concentrate on my studies without the added burden of financial stress”, explains Giuliano.

Without this program, Giuliano’s path would have been significantly more challenging. “The funding not only provided essential financial relief but also offered a sense of validation and motivation, knowing that there was dedicated support for individuals from multicultural backgrounds like myself”, he adds.

Being fluent in Filipino (Tagalog) has been particularly beneficial in his role as a NEPT Officer. But Giuliano doesn’t stop there. “I have also learned greetings and phrases in other languages, including Hindi, Spanish, Korean, Chinese (Mandarin), Japanese (Nihongo), Turkish, Arabic, and Macedonian. These skills help me connect with patients from diverse backgrounds, break the ice, and build trust”, Giuliano advises.

“I believe that language skills are a valuable tool in patient care, bridging gaps and ensuring that patients feel respected and understood.”  he concludes.

Reflecting on his experience, Giuliano says that the funding from Scanlon Foundation was instrumental in shaping his journey. “Without it, I would have faced significant financial challenges, making it difficult to focus on my studies and complete the course. The support and mentorship provided through this funding also offered a sense of belonging and encouragement, which was crucial for my success.”

The hands-on training provided in the Certificate III course was invaluable in preparing him for his role as a Patient Transport Officer. Engaging in real-life scenarios helped him feel well-prepared for the job, while learning to communicate effectively with patients. “The course emphasised not only technical skills but also the importance of empathy and professionalism in every interaction, which has been crucial in my day-to-day duties.”

For him, the most rewarding aspect of transitioning from student to a staff member at St John Ambulance Victoria has been the opportunity to help patients from various backgrounds every day. “The relief and appreciation seen on patients' faces when they feel safe and cared for is the most fulfilling part of the job. Additionally, working with a dedicated team committed to making a positive impact has been incredibly rewarding.”

Giuliano strongly believes that the role of NEPT Officers will keep expanding as healthcare continues to evolve. “I hope to contribute by bringing increased cultural awareness and empathy to the role, ensuring that every patient feels respected and understood, especially those from diverse backgrounds.” And he advocates for the workforce to reflect on the communities that they are serving to provide the best possible care.

Incorporating more individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse communities enhances St John Ambulance’s ability to connect with patients and provide a more inclusive service. It demonstrates to the community that everyone is welcome and cared for, and it translates into better patient outcomes and a more compassionate approach to service delivery, reflecting the diversity of the people we serve.

For those considering a career in patient transport, Giuliano strongly encourages people to pursue it with confidence “I wholeheartedly recommend the program to others. For those interested in applying, my advice is to stay dedicated and focused. The journey is manageable and rewarding.”

Background and experiences are valuable assets as there is a growing need for diversity in healthcare, and Patient Transport Officers can make a meaningful impact by bringing their unique perspective to the job.

By embracing diversity and supporting individuals from various backgrounds, we not only enrich our own experiences but also enhance the care we provide to the community.