I joined the NHS in 1994 beginning my career at St James’ Hospital, Leeds where I undertook the Diploma in Medical Illustration and qualified as a Clinical Photographer, before advancing to a B.Sc. degree affiliated with Glasgow and Caledonian University.
My role has developed over the years to Medical Illustration Manager in 2019, supporting a team of highly accredited Clinical Photographers, Graphic Designers, Print manager and Administration Team.
As a Clinical Photographer our specialised role means using high end imaging equipment, using empathy, understanding and gentle persuasion, which are paramount to obtaining patients trust in supporting their care, to obtain clinically accurate photographs of patients conditions, often under difficult circumstances, such as safeguarding cases.
My NHS career has included development over 10 years of Ophthalmology study research with accredited imaging for numerous international drugs studies, to analyse efficacy and benefits of the latest treatments, using the latest technologically advanced equipment available.
This includes undertaking Ophthalmic digital imaging Fundus Angiograms to provide diagnostic retinal imaging for clinical decision making, by fellow health care professionals to hopefully prevent sight loss.
As photographers it is always exciting to extend our scope of practice and be involved with multidisciplinary teamwork and projects at an international level. The digital camera technology and colour calibration development, revolutionised clinical imaging, as part of the patient’s healthcare record and more recently supporting integration to the EPR.
As we also became a Teaching Hospital, it was needed to gave high quality and efficient production of patient images for instant access by clinician locally, to enhance clinical decision making and peer review support of patients cases, as well for teaching and publication purposes.
I have always enjoyed looking to push the boundaries in both clinical and ophthalmic photography and the digital development and innovation supporting patient treatment pathways such using enhanced imaging such as Dermoscopy. It’s imperative to keep up to date with all supporting IT infrastructure and online media applications and web portals, sharing clinical knowledge and disseminating experiences and understanding.
I am proud to work at Bradford Hospitals representing and promoting my profession, as a regulated Healthcare Scientist, accredited by the Professional Standards Authority.