Ray Chikwama

I shadowed Ophthalmology at the Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion for a week. I was exposed to a wide range of areas within Ophthalmology whilst I attended. I saw a number of consultations in the Acute Referrals Clinic. I learned of the Trials and tribulations of Keratoconus and the rejection of Corneal transplants. The compassion shown by the number of doctors I shadowed highlighted the need to treat patients in an empathetic and dignified way. I was also able to observe numerous surgeries. An evisceration procedure allowed me to see the multidisciplinary nature of the NHS on full display as numerous allied health professionals and the surgeon involved worked together to ensure a positive outcome for patient care. I was blessed to be able to attend a postgraduate teaching session and learn about the screening of Ocular Hypertension. This deepened my own understanding of the condition and also made clear to me how doctors are always striving to maintain competence by auditing current practices and keeping knowledge up-to-date in order to improve outcomes for patients. I would like to thank all the staff I had the pleasure of encountering in my short time shadowing. Most notably, thank you Dr Martin Anderson for organising the placement and taking me under his wing for the week.

Subjects conducted in sixth form. Biology (AH), Chemistry (AH), Mathematics (AH)