In our doctors’ own words: The quiet power of care

Every minute of every day, healthcare professionals perform marvellous and often life-saving tasks for patients. And yet, these don’t make the news: the weight of negative stories often appears to drown out, or even negate, the light that shines behind closed doors, whether in the surgery or the hospital.

Here are some moments of pride and joy that MDDUS members shared with us a couple of years ago.

"Some of what attracts a doctor to vascular surgery may be the glamour of big aortic reconstructions or the challenge of saving a threatened limb with a fancy arterial bypass operation. However, one of my most grateful patients was a lady with a longstanding venous leg ulcer, which was painful, wet and malodorous, requiring regular dressing changes. The leg pain and ulcer management governed her whole life. I performed a day case radiofrequency ablation of her incompetent long saphenous vein under local anaesthetic - a procedure taking less than an hour. When I reviewed her less than three months later, her ulcer had healed. She was ecstatic, as her quality of life had been transformed. Sometimes the simplest operations have the greatest benefit for patients and give the most satisfaction to them and surgeon alike". Ken McCune, consultant vascular surgeon, Truro.

"A patient in their late fifties shared with me how the profound impact of childhood dental experiences had caused their fear of dentistry. So it was heartening to see them leave my clinic with a smile, expressing a wish for me to have been their dental therapist during their formative years. I am deeply committed to creating positive dental memories for young patients, believing that each visit contributes to their lifelong oral health. Grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives". Angel Subramanium, dental therapist, Manchester.

"After Covid-19, I treated patients on a weekly basis who seemed to be suffering from mental health issues. I took time to listen and become aware of local organisations to forward them to, so they could access relevant help. Many elderly patients were only starting to feel it was safe and secure to access dental care. Again, I took care to welcome them back and to sensitively check their mental health. Time to listen is the most precious thing". Elaine Anderson, dental hygienist, Ayr.

"A memorable moment from 2023 was when I was treating a patient who is a mum of twins, just like me. She was struggling with moderate anxiety and I followed her up with regular check ins by telephone and video, using a coaching approach to help her use her own strengths and skills. I was delighted when after a few months she said: ‘thank you that’s been so helpful, I’ll call you when I need you’. I haven’t spoken to her for a few months now. It reminded me of the importance of continuity, connection and just listening without needing to do lots of investigations or referrals". Dr Rini Paul, GP, London.

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This page was correct at the time of publication. Any guidance is intended as general guidance for members only. If you are a member and need specific advice relating to your own circumstances, please contact one of our advisers.