Celebrating our Allied Health Professionals

To mark Allied Health Professionals’ (AHPs) Day on Monday 14 October, we are celebrating some of our AHP colleagues who make up the third largest workforce in the NHS.

Here at Medway we employ Dietitians, Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Dietetic Assistants, Therapy Assistants, Operating Department Practitioners (ODPs) and Radiographers, plus one Speech and Language Therapist in neonates.

Introducing Tracey Dray

Tracey Dray, who started work at Medway in 1997, is the Principle ODP and Practice Development Facilitator in Main Theatres.

“I qualified in 1999 as an NVQ Level 3 and then completed a Diploma and Degree in Operating Department Practice.

Tracey Dray, Principle ODP and Practice Development Facilitator in Main Theatres

“The role of an ODP is beneficial to all patients undergoing surgery and we also attend births in the obstetric operating theatres, as well as cardiac arrest and trauma calls.

“I always wanted to work in a hospital, particularly in the operating theatres. It seemed like such an exciting role to undertake and it most certainly is. Every day is different and varied, not just clinically.

“As the Practice Development Facilitator, I am involved in providing education for various NHS workers, not just ODPs and nurses. My team and I also look after student nurses, paramedics and midwives.

“We are also involved in teaching students from local schools and colleges. This year we were able to show local sixth forms students how operating theatres run – a first for our department.”

“The role that is forever expanding. It allows us to branch out into other areas including the Resuscitation Team and simulation and one of our ODPs is Matron of our department.

“So, if you’re thinking about a career as an ODP, go for it!”

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Dr Jaroslaw Beta, who is known to colleagues and service users as Jarek, holds baby Jarek who is named after him. Mum Lauren Davies is pictured next to them.

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