In partnership with Monash Simulation, the M-TRACS team has developed one of Australia’s first national multidisciplinary tracheostomy simulation courses designed specifically for Speech Pathologists and Physiotherapists, addressing a significant gap in allied health education and strengthening the delivery of safe, evidence-based patient care.
What began as an internal Physiotherapy education program focused on tracheostomy and ventilation management has evolved into a highly innovative multidisciplinary simulation course that brings together allied health professionals to learn, collaborate and develop critical clinical skills in a realistic, team-based environment. Since its inception, the M-TRACS team has successfully delivered more than a dozen multidisciplinary courses internally, providing high-quality simulation training to over 70 clinicians across the organisation. Through continual refinement based on participant feedback and emerging best practice, the program has grown into a highly regarded educational initiative. Participant evaluations have consistently demonstrated the program’s impact, with clinicians reporting increased confidence in managing patients with tracheostomies, enhanced skills in working effectively within a multidisciplinary team, and the direct application of learning to their clinical practice. In partnership with the Monash Simulation team, the M-TRACS team has also strengthened cross-disciplinary and organisational relationships, further enhancing the quality, sustainability and reach of the program. Building on this success, the team is now establishing itself nationally, sharing its expertise and educational model with clinicians and organisations across Australia. This progression reflects the team’s vision, initiative and commitment to continuous improvement, ensuring education keeps pace with the increasingly collaborative nature of tracheostomy care.
The impact of the M-TRACS team’s work has extended well beyond their own organisation. Their course has received national recognition, being showcased at the Allied Health National Conference in Adelaide in 2025 and presented at the Australian Catholic University (ACU) Simulation Training Day. Furthermore, the course has been accepted for an oral presentation at the International Tracheostomy Symposium in Melbourne in 2026, demonstrating that the team’s work is recognised as an innovative and leading example of multidisciplinary education on an international stage.
Authors:
Lisa Terry, Jackson Wood, Michelle Paton & Courtney Dunn
M-TRACS Team, Monash Health