How long have you been in your pharmacy role?
I began working in the aseptics department within pharmacy four years ago in the role of an ATO.
I had never worked in a pharmacy setting before and found the challenge of a completely new industry a real eye-opener, however, it was something I really wanted to sink my teeth into.
After a couple of years of hard work and learning the role there came an opportunity to apply to become a senior ATO, which I was successful with. I have now been in post for 18 months as a senior ATO.
What qualifications did you need and where did you gain them?
The qualifications needed to become an ATO or senior ATO are to have GCSE grades C or above in mathematics and science.
I achieved these grades when I attended school in 1998.
Tell us something about your role people might not be aware of
I play a big role in training ATOs who are new to the department.
I will aid them in their journey to learn all of the aspects of their role.
This can take around six months to complete as they work through each area of the department and build up their competencies.
What do you like about working at South Tees in pharmacy?
I feel that the James Cook Hospital’s pharmacy is an ever-expanding department that plays a vital role as a service for the trust.
More and more opportunities to progress within the department are becoming available to those who are seeking to grow as the department too grows.
Within the pharmacy, aseptics provide critical treatment to patients requiring chemotherapy and TPN.
I lost my father to cancer and being part of a team that helps battle it makes me feel like I am making a difference to patients and their families that are going through this tough time in their lives.
However, one of the greatest things about working here is the people.
We have a great team that is diverse, very friendly, knowledgeable, supportive of each other, and hardworking, and I am very proud to be part of such a great team.