London healthcare science trainee network holds first PTP event

In February this year the London Healthcare Science trainee network held their first PTP event. It was a successful day attended by trainees from different year groups, specialisms and universities.

The theme of the event was “understanding the importance for healthcare scientists to collaborate” which was reflected by the selection of activities and talks presented. The event started with a range of healthcare professionals giving an insight into “A day in the life” of their specialism. Talks were given by Bhajan Ubhi (Audiologist), Aléchia Van Wyk (Cardiac Physiologist), Richard Pottinger (Neurophysiologist) and Martyn Bucknall (Respiratory and Sleep Physiologist) and it was really interesting to learn about different roles within healthcare scientists.

This was followed by a “Patient Pathway Group Activity” during which trainees from different specialisms had to work together through a scenario of a typical patient journey in the healthcare system and deduce which departments they visited, what test were performed and the final diagnosis. From this activity trainees had an increased appreciation of how their specialism fits in the wider world of healthcare science.

The later sessions focused on life beyond graduation. Patricia le Roland and Beth Dodson, representatives from the Academy of Healthcare Science, gave a very informative presentation speaking about the role of the Academy, why regulation of professionals is needed, types of registration and benefits of registering with the academy. PTPs were keen to get their questions answered and the speakers were very helpful in providing further clarity.

Last but not least, Sam Griffiths a fellow STP board member gave a passionate talk about the STP, what the course entails, the application process and his own experience on the programme. This was a very popular talk with trainees, especially since many of those attending are interested in applying for the STP.

The London Healthcare Science trainee network would like to thank all the speakers and attendees for making their first PTP event such a success! The network will be hosting a PTP Summer in May; more details will be circulated shortly.