Partner Article

Medical shadows make a mark

A shadowing programme at one of the region’s busiest hospitals is helping aspiring medics to make their mark nationwide.

The scheme, initially an informal arrangement enjoyed by the relatives and friends of staff at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Gateshead, was formalised and launched three years ago.

Last year it attracted 71 students and there are 50 already lined up for the year ahead. Most come from North East but some travel further, one coming all the way from Plymouth.

Philip Lane, Personnel Officer for the Trust, is responsible for the scheme and thinks its popularity stems from the comprehensive experience it provides the students, helping them to make an informed choice about a career in medicine.

He said: “This is for people aged 16 or over who are genuinely interested in a medical career. It shows them in some detail what the job is all about. Except for the operating theatres they get to see pretty much all the other aspects of care in the hospital. This tends to reinforce or end their medical aspirations.

“For those who do decide to go ahead it also enables them to demonstrate some quality work experience when applying to medical schools, which is something that can give them the edge in a competitive arena.”

Dr. Clive Kelly, the lead consultant supporting the Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust programme, added: “We try to show the students as much as possible without breaching any patient confidentiality and it’s encouraging to see that about two thirds of them decide to continue down the medical route.

“I’m sure that we will soon see young doctors coming to work here who have taken part in the programme. We see it as our investment in the future of the medical profession in general and this trust in particular.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .