Birth Beat founder appointed to PHN Board

Managing director and founder of online digital health tech company Birth Beat, Edwina Sharrock OAM, is the latest appointment to the board of the Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network (PHN).

PHN board chair, Jane Schwager AO, said Ms Sharrock’s appointment provides additional clinical expertise and innovative thinking to the board and reinforces the organisation’s commitment to improving regional and rural health.

“Edwina is a passionate health advocate who has embraced technology and innovation in her professional life - her local insight and strategic mindset will strengthen the experience on our board, from both a clinical and business perspective,” Ms Schwager said.

Prior to her board appointment, Ms Sharrock was a founding member of the PHN’s Hunter New England Rural Clinical Council and has a distinguished list of achievements, including being named as one of the Australian Financial Review’s 100 Women of Influence and NSW Telstra Small Business Woman of the Year in 2019, and recently Australia's fellow of the Cartier Women's Initiative - an annual international entrepreneurship programme.

Ms Sharrock said she was passionate about advocating for the advancement of primary healthcare in the region.

“Being based in Tamworth, I know that there are particular health challenges in our regional and rural communities, and this increases with geographical remoteness.

“High quality, sustainable primary healthcare is a critical factor to ensure our communities thrive,” Ms Sharrock said.