Public health researcher wins NSW Women of the year Award
University of Sydney public health researcher Professor Julie Redfern has won the NSW Woman of Excellence Award at the 2022 NSW Women of the year Awards.
In a ceremony today, Professor Redfern was recognised for her initiative and hercommitment to transforming the way patients are supported and cared for after a heart attack. She was also celebrated for her tireless mentorship of the next generation of health and medical researchers.
In accepting the award, which aims to recognise remarkable women who make a significant impact in NSW in the areas of science, education, health, industry culture or community, Professor Redfern said it was especially meaningful to gain recognition for her research advocating for better equity in health and research.
“It is a huge honour to receive this award,” said Professor Redfern,
“It is especially meaningful to see what I am doing to champion equal opportunity and access in health care and research being recognised.”
The University of Sydney's Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Mark Scott, said:
“I’m thrilled to see Julie’s outstanding leadership be recognised – her commitment to equal access to healthcare has been tireless, and her encouragement of the next generation of researchers to craft their skills is inspiring.”
Professor Julie Redfern. Source: NSW Government
Advocate for healthcare and research equity
It was especially meaningful to see what I was doing to champion equal opportunity and access in health care and research being recognised.
Professor Redfern’s research investigates gaps and inequities in the field of cardiovascular disease rehabilitation.
Over the last 15 years, she has committed herself to improving health access for people in Australia, uncovering that three- quarters of people who survive a heart attack don’t participate in current rehabilitation programs, especially, women, people who are not fluent in English and people of lower income.
Her text-messaging research program, that provides support for Australians with chronic cardiovascular disease, has been delivered to over 10,000 patients globally in five countries. The text messaging program has also been translated in Korean, Chinese and Hindi and widely used by organisations to support patients.
She also led rapid implementation of the programs which supported over 1,800 patients with breast cancer and chronic lung disease during COVID-19 lockdowns.
Professor Redfern is also a widely respected role model, who has mentored more than 50 students. Her commitment has been recognised by a Vice Chancellors Award for Leadership and Mentoring at the University of Sydney and a NSW Tall Poppy Award.