As a trainee at Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, the list of items to carry throughout the day was extensive and included anything from stethoscopes, tablets and inhalers to mobile phone chargers and even snacks to maintain energy levels during long shifts.
Initially I faced three issues: I could not carry everything in my hands; using a locker was impractical as it did not facilitate quick access as required; and because the job was not office-based there was no option of desk drawers.
The logical alternative was to purchase a bag from a high street store. However this was quickly met with disapproval from infection control nurses at the hospital due to the health risk the bag presented to patients.
At this point I began to think of other ways to overcome the problem, and a collaboration with scientists at the University of Manchester resulted in the development of a low infection risk bag to carry items required during training.
One of the hardest aspects has been fulfilling the demands of a junior doctor role while keeping an eye on the project and taking an active lead in its development; it is complex and time consuming. At the time, not only was I learning the ropes as a junior doctor, I was, and still am, learning to be an innovator.
From assessing the initial problem the innovation addresses, and the resources needed during development, to protecting the innovation with intellectual property rights, and securing all-important funding; these aspects, along with others, have determined the road my innovation has followed.
Probably the most crucial point has been the access to a strong network of contacts. Clinical leaders, consultants and external healthcare organisations play an imperative part; experts that ensure all bases are covered.
TRUSTECH, the North West NHS innovation service, are the experts, and in particular provided key advice and guidance on the different aspects of creating and developing the idea, and how to successfully bring it to market. For anyone looking to push their ideas forward, or tap into such expert resources, there is lots available. From innovation workshops, training days and events, to interest groups, networks and innovation specialists; access to these resources shape ideas further.
Whilst trials for my innovation in a clinical setting have been successful, and it’s in the final stages of development and testing, the journey is not yet complete.
It has been a steep learning curve over the years; demanding, challenging and at times frustrating, yet also an extremely rewarding experience which has helped me step beyond the role of a surgeon. As well as the personal sense of achievement, I hope the innovation helps towards positive outcomes in the NHS.
By Dr Shazia Hafiz