Healthcare science week is an annual week of celebration and awareness-raising for the many careers in healthcare science and the amazing work that healthcare scientists do.
There are over 50 different specialisms in healthcare science. Scientists can work in laboratories and directly with patients to assess and diagnose disease and illness; engineers can help patients live independent and fulfilling lives; and data and technology experts can improve systems that benefit patients.
To mark the event, we spoke to Clare O’Brien, Principal Cardiac Physiologist. Clare, one of Medway’s healthcare scientists, reveals why she loves her job, how she got there, and much more.
When did you start working for the Trust? I started as a Student Cardiac Physiologist in September 2003; I graduated from my Clinical Physiology degree in 2007 and went on from there to complete my British Society of Echocardiology Accreditation in 2009 and other rhythm management qualifications. Since then, I have worked my way up the leadership roles within cardiac physiology, specialised my skills in echocardiography and rhythm management, and most recently achieved my Leadership and Management Diploma at the end of last year. I am currently managing cardiac diagnostics for the Trust.
What does your role entail and how do patients benefit? As a Cardiac Physiologist we play a vital role in diagnosing and treating heart conditions. We carry out a wide range of diagnostics including Electrocardiograms (ECGs), Echocardiograms (Echos), cardiac device implants and follow ups, coronary angiograms and stenting. We provide cardiac diagnostics both invasive and non-invasive and have an experienced and highly skilled team of physiologists providing this service at Medway Maritime Hospital and in the community.
Why did you want to get into the role you are in? I was always keen to do something medical-based and came across the career by answering some questions with my career adviser at school. I asked to come and do some work experience within the department and at the time of finishing my A-levels I was lucky enough that a student position opened up and I was successful at interview for this. The rest is history, and I will have been at Medway for 22 years in September.
What do you love about your role? I love the team I work with, and like working as part of a wider team across the Trust. Since I have been leading cardiology diagnostics, I have enjoyed the challenge of trying to improve the cardiology service for our patients. We have a lot of patients that we see on a regular basis and it is great to build up a rapport with them and I feel proud that they have trust in us to manage their treatment.
What would you say to others thinking of a career in your role? There are a whole range of careers within healthcare science. There’s never a dull day and you get to work with a whole range of different people from varying teams.
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