We are currently recruiting for a number of roles to join our Patient Safety Collaborative to support its new commission. In this blog, Kay Khan shares her experiences working as a Senior Improvement Lead for the Patient Safety Collaborative and gives insight into starting a new role at EMAHSN during the COVID-19 pandemic.
To find out more about the opportunities and to apply for the new roles visit our webpage.
My background
I have worked in the NHS for 16 years, starting my career as a midwife in London. Since then, I have worked within a variety of roles in acute trusts and most recently worked in a role that focussed on quality and safety, which is what prompted me to look at roles within the EMAHSN.
The Senior Improvement Lead role
I previously worked for the EMAHSN as a clinical advisor two days a week, but this had to stop due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as I was required fulltime by the hospital trust. Working for the organisation opened my eyes to the impact I could make. When I saw the opportunity to apply for the Senior Improvement Lead last September I had to apply.
I started working for the EMAHSN at a very turbulent time during the COVID-19 pandemic which meant I start working completely remotely. Moving to a role outside my chosen clinical speciality was daunting. However, all the staff at the AHSN have been open in offering their time and guidance which has allowed me to grow into my new role. People have time for you, and everyone wants to help each other.
I would tell anyone interested in this role that it is a very positive organisation to be a part of. All the work is aimed at improving the services provided by the NHS to the local population. Engagement and communication are vital and at the heart of everything that happens. This ensures that the work is service user and patient focussed.
What I’m working on at the moment
I am currently working on the new Mental Health Safety Improvement Programme. The programme aims to improve the safety and outcomes of mental health care by reducing unwarranted variation and providing a high-quality healthcare experience for all people across the system. This has been a real learning curve as not only is this a new programme. But, like many, all my interactions with colleagues have to be virtual.
I enjoy meeting all the stakeholders for the programme and making connections and learning what work they are doing. I am really excited to continue to work on this programme with organisations and make a difference in the care and outcomes for people using mental health services.
Working remotely has meant adapting both my style and skills in presenting and engaging with people. The organisation has supported this transition and facilitated workshops so that we are comfortable using online platforms and workshops to adapt to this ‘new normal.
Author
Kay Khan, Patient Safety Collaborative Senior Improvement Lead