Have you received outstanding care from a nurse of midwife? Or perhaps you work with a colleague who has gone above and beyond for their patients?
The organisation that highlights the work done by these community carers in the hospital setting wants to hear from you.
HESTA has begun its national search for Australia's most exceptional nurses and midwives by opening nominations for the 2022 HESTA Australian Nursing & Midwifery Awards.
For the past 16 years the national awards have recognised the nurses, midwives, nurse educators, researchers and personal care workers who are improving health outcomes by providing outstanding care and support for Australians in need.
HESTA chief executive Debby Blakey said nurses and midwives have been essential to keeping communities healthy and safe, particularly as the nation continues to battle the COVID-19 outbreak.
"Nurses and midwives have been so critical to our ongoing recovery from COVID-19. We wouldn't be where we are today without them," Ms Blakey said.
"The positive impact they have had, and will continue to have, on patients' lives is humbling. HESTA is truly honoured to help recognise these wonderful and dedicated professionals and help share their stories.
"I encourage all Australians to consider submitting a nomination and help show support for nurses and midwives and their achievements."
Employers, colleagues and patients have until February 6 to nominate a nursing or midwifery professional who has demonstrated leadership, innovation and pursued excellence to deliver high-quality patient care.
Longstanding awards supporter, ME - the bank for you, is providing the $30,000 prize pool, to be split equally between the winners of each category - Nurse of the Year, Midwife of the Year and Outstanding Organisation.
"Nurses, midwives, personal care workers and those who train them are pivotal to the nation, and we have been reminded of that now more than ever as the COVID-19 pandemic continues on," ME chief executive Martine Jager said.
Finalists will be announced on April 12 and the winners announced on May 19 in Melbourne, pending COVID-19 safety restrictions.
