Consumer, Peninsula Health; Australia

Jo Hansen is a healthcare consumer representative at Peninsula Health. She has been the advocate for her partner living with complex, chronic health conditions involving multiple medical interventions, emergency admissions, operations and three drug trials over 15 years. She monitors his health during the trials, advocates for medical interventions, and records discussions and decisions. Jo was the primary carer for her parents through physical deterioration and dementia, also providing strong advocacy during medical appointments and hospitals presentations.

Jo is an early childhood educator with 45-years experience. She has established and managed early intervention services, worked with the Department of Human Services as a policy advisor, developed training courses and audiovisual resources, lectured at universities and TAFE and presented numerous in services in the early childhood field. Jo is currently providing professional development with Monash University as part of the State Government Respectful Relationships program to address family violence.