After obtaining MRCP in Manchester I decided on a career in Rheumatology.
As a Senior Registrar in Nottingham I developed interests in crystal arthritis ankylosing spondylitis and psychological aspects of managing rheumatic diseases in addition to teaching.
In my consultant post I have developed the clinical osteoporosis service in North Durham undertaken teaching and supervision of both medical and nonmedical students (I obtained the Certificate of Clinical Education in 2006 ) have remained active in clinical research and have been the Lead Clinician of the Rheumatology team at University Hospital of North Durham (UHND) (and now the Trust) since 1998.
More recently I have taken an increasing role in management within the Division of Medicine with the additional remit of Clinical Governance and Audit.
I undertake four general Rheumatology clinics and one electrophysiology clinic per week and supervise nurse led clinics and two additional electrophysiology clinics.
I report DXA scans at UHND (and provide a clinical service for complex osteoporosis patients).
I also mentor physiotherapy practitioners who see mainly soft tissue lesions and non inflammatory joint problems.
In 1995 I was among the first in this region to train as a mentor at a time when senior women doctors were encouraged to help support junior colleagues to remain and progress in hospital medicine. This programme has flourished but now extends to all health professionals.
I remain on the Trust's list of mentors.
I am also a senior medical appraiser.
I have recently stood down from the Chair of the Regional Rheumatology Committee which represents the Northern Region at the BSr clinical Affairs committee.
I am the Administrative Secretary of Durham Forum for Health which aspires to bring interested parties from a wide spectrum together to discuss and debate current health and social issues.
'Every aspect of my emergency care was dealt with quickly, efficiently and professionally with full explanations and compassion from all staff involved'.
Patient, Emergency Department, Darlington Memorial Hospital