Excellence in improving the patient experience

This award recognises the achievement of a team in providing a great patient experience when delivering safe, high-quality services.

Meet our 2026 winner

LipReader initiative – Fiona Stanley Fremantle Hospitals Group

This initiative has transformed the patient experience by restoring communication for intensive care unit patients who are awake but unable to speak.

Using an AI‑powered lip‑reading phone app, the team enabled patients to clearly express needs, concerns and questions at a time when anxiety and loss of control are common.

The technology was shaped alongside people with lived experience, ensuring a focus on dignity, ease of use and what matters most to patients and families.

Feedback from consumer testing showed reduced frustration, clearer understanding and greater confidence for everyone involved.

By removing guesswork and supporting more responsive care, the initiative has improved trust, reduced distress and strengthened patient‑centred communication.

Congratulations to our other finalists:

• CoNeCT Mental Health Expansion – South Metropolitan Health Service
• Deborah Devlin – Fiona Stanley Fremantle Hospitals Group

See other 2026 Excellence Award winners.

This award sponsored by

See our 2026 SMHS Excellence Award sponsors.