Medicine Personal Statement #02
Witnessing my grandmother's care following a kidney infection, I saw the complexity of her holistic treatment which encompassed not only medical interventions but also the ethical principles of beneficence. I was frustrated; unable to alleviate her suffering myself. This experience forged my desire and commitment to make a career in Medicine where I can direct the care and improve patients’ quality of life.
As a pharmacy dispenser, I am developing an understanding of the pillars of medicine and their paramount importance in healthcare. I’ve developed my interpersonal communication and become more adaptable. One day, a 15 year-old girl came into the pharmacy requesting a morning-after pill. At that moment, the pharmacist and I had to assess the girl to make sure that she was safe and that the contact she had was consensual. The pharmacist explained what was involved in her treatment and then asked her a series of questions to see if the patient had capacity to make decisions regarding treatment, ensuring patient autonomy. I noticed how the pharmacist had to adapt their communication skills to make sure the patient did not feel judged to allow for transparent conversation. This made me wonder what the consequences could have been otherwise. Perhaps, the girl might not have understood the risks of treatment. I have worked in 2 pharmacies for 2 years and I am constantly improving these skills. I’ve gained NVQ2s in Pharmacy Services and Dispensing. I’ve learned more about the types of consent a customer might give you, how to read body language more effectively and how to communicate with angry patients to diffuse the situation.
“Being Mortal” by Atul Gawande explored ideas of non-maleficence, when Medicine goes wrong and the conditions are no longer treatable. This made me reflect on my volunteering on a Lewisham University surgical ward. Working there, I cared for a cancer patient by comforting her and sharing a meal. Through being empathetic and caring she opened up to me and expressed the challenges she faced in her last 6 months. I found this disheartening as her major problem was being hospitalised instead of being able to spend time with her loved ones. Every patient had their own unique story and conditions which I enjoyed learning more about through my interactions with the nurses and doctors. I came to understand what a privilege it is to play such an important part in people's lives.
Working at my local GP surgery, I helped the team start their diabetes clinic for the new year. This involved working with the nurse and clinical pharmacist to ensure all our patients had their care processes completed and any medical intervention actioned. At the start of the financial year we placed 47/48 in our borough. Since I joined, my innovative ideas and organisational skill mean we are on track to increase our ranking and place in the top 10. Due to my commitment to the team, I am training to be a vaccinator which will result in an NVQ4 in Vaccination and Injectables. During my Friday clinic slots, I do new patient checks and vaccinate against diseases. This furthers my insight into the diversity of roles within healthcare and the importance of each member of my team.
My wide range of developed skills meant that I was appointed as “chairman” of our student leadership team and Head Boy. I apply the philosophies of medicine to my role. One of my responsibilities is mentoring students who want to get into healthcare by doing weekly check-ins and supporting them with applications and finding work experience. In my free time I go exploring my local area, allowing me to take a break and prioritise my own health and mental well-being. I appreciate that doctors need a good work/life balance to function effectively with the high intensity and pressure of the role. Through diverse experiences, I have embraced the essence of patient care. My desire to help deepened with each encounter and I get immense joy from what I do.
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This personal statement received interviews at Kings College London, Queen Marys University London & University of Sunderland.