Clowning around in Alice Springs

Alice Springs Hospital is the newest hospital to have resident Clown Doctors to dose patients with fun and laughter. “We chose the Year of the Outback to launch the Clown Doctors in Alice Springs Hospital,” said Creative Director, Jean-Paul Bell,

The Clown DoctorTM program was launched on  23 February 2006 by Alice Springs Hospital General Manager Vicki Taylor.  “We’re looking forward to having the Clown Doctors here,” she said. “In addition to giving the children that we treat  a bit of happiness, the Clown Doctors will be enjoyed by our staff as well.  We’re also pleased that the Clown Doctors are local entertainers. “

‘We could help out with brain surgery operations during staff shortages. Jean-Paul joked,” as he presented the newly trained Clown Doctors with their stethoscopes.

The Clown Doctor program at Alice Springs Hospital is funded by the Commonwealth Bank Staff Community Fund.  Hugh Harley, Group Executive Retail Banking Services, said, “We are so proud of our long association with the Clown Doctors, who have helped so many sick Australian children over the years.”  As foundation principal partner, Commonwealth Bank Staff Community Fund has supported the expansion of the Clown Doctor Program since 1998.