High distinction for CAHS Rare Care team at national awards
Acting Clinical Program Director at the Rare Care Centre, Anna Thetford, with Child and Adolescent Health Service Chief Executive Valerie Buić, and Medical Director of the Rare Care Centre Gareth Baynam.
02/11/2026
A pioneering WA team dedicated to improving the lives of children with rare and undiagnosed diseases has received national recognition, with the Child and Adolescent Health Service Rare Care team named the 2026 Team of Distinction by Children’s Healthcare Australasia.
The prestigious accolade recognises excellence in teamwork and collaboration that significantly improves care for children and families.
Acting Clinical Program Director at the Rare Care Centre, Anna Thetford said the award win gives formal recognition to the Rare Care team’s leading work improving the health and wellbeing of children and young people with rare and undiagnosed disease.
“This award is testament to the dedication, compassion and expertise of our entire Rare Care team and strength of our cross-sector model of care and nurse navigation program,” Anna said.
“Families of children with rare and undiagnosed disease often face complex and fragmented systems at a time when they are already carrying a significant burden. This award recognises that the Rare Care team meets families where they are, helps them navigate challenges, and works collaboratively across sectors to improve health, wellbeing, and quality of life for children and their families.”
Children’s Healthcare Australasia is a not-for-profit organisation committed to celebrating and sharing successful innovations, ideas and best practices that improve health outcomes and experiences for children and families.
The Rare Care team provide clinical services, research and support to address the challenges faced by children and families living with rare and undiagnosed disease.
The prestigious accolade recognises excellence in teamwork and collaboration that significantly improves care for children and families.
Acting Clinical Program Director at the Rare Care Centre, Anna Thetford said the award win gives formal recognition to the Rare Care team’s leading work improving the health and wellbeing of children and young people with rare and undiagnosed disease.
“This award is testament to the dedication, compassion and expertise of our entire Rare Care team and strength of our cross-sector model of care and nurse navigation program,” Anna said.
“Families of children with rare and undiagnosed disease often face complex and fragmented systems at a time when they are already carrying a significant burden. This award recognises that the Rare Care team meets families where they are, helps them navigate challenges, and works collaboratively across sectors to improve health, wellbeing, and quality of life for children and their families.”
Children’s Healthcare Australasia is a not-for-profit organisation committed to celebrating and sharing successful innovations, ideas and best practices that improve health outcomes and experiences for children and families.
The Rare Care team provide clinical services, research and support to address the challenges faced by children and families living with rare and undiagnosed disease.
Last Updated:
02/11/2026