Sara works hard part time as Information Support Officer with the Nystagmus Network, but did you know she also works on the NHS front line? She’s even working today on her son’s birthday.
Her role is with a busy doctors’ practice. Sara says:
“I manage a team of 10 receptionists and support all the clinicians including GPs, nurses and pharmacists. My main responsibility during Covid-19 is first and foremost keeping our patients and staff safe.
‘We’ve had several members of staff needing to self isolate, so it’s a case of putting plans into place for the worst case scenario. To comply with social distancing we’ve had to rearrange the patient waiting area completely. Then there’s the difficulty of keeping staff 2 metres apart throughout the surgery.
‘Fortunately, our patients can message us by email, so saving them the need to come into the surgery. They can describe their symptoms or send us photos of something like a rash they may need help with. We can email sick notes and other documents. Our GPs are also conducting consultations by video call to protect patients and surgery staff.
‘Everyone at the surgery, including my reception team, is working very hard during a time when we’re under incredible pressure. We’re having to amend and update policies and procedures daily as the situation continues to change, but we’re an amazing team and I’m fortunate to be supported by a fantastic NHS work family!”
Well done, Sara. We know how much your GPs value you, especially as you’re their in-house nystagmus ‘expert’, too!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, CHARLIE! Mum will be home in time for tea!