As part of Healthcare Science Week 2023 , Waqas Hussain, Trainee Biomedical Scientist
Why did you choose a career in Pathology?
I enjoyed studying biology and learning about the human body in particular the pathology of diseases and current diagnostic measures.
I also love problem solving, analysing data and working in a team environment to assist clinicians in the diagnosis and treatment of patients.
What does a typical day involve?
A typical day in Biochemistry involves
- Running the analysers and doing quality control to ensure they are running efficiently
- Talking to other medical professionals over the phone and giving out results
- Troubleshooting any problems with the analysers and working as a team to resolve them
- Aliquoting paediatric samples
- Validating and verifying results
How does your job impact on patient health?
My job in the laboratory has a great impact on the patient’s health as the results from biochemistry aid health professionals in diagnosing and treating them.
What has been your biggest achievement so far?
Getting the opportunity to complete my portfolio and become a qualified Biomedical Scientist to have a greater impact on patient care.
It was also a great achievement for me as I started my career in the NHS working in specimen reception and now I am pursuing my career goals in Biochemistry, training to become a Biomedical Scientist.
What would you say to someone thinking about a career in Pathology?
I would say get as much work experience in various departments in Pathology to see what interests you the most.
Also do research into possible routes you could take into becoming a Biomedical Scientist and see which one would give you the best experience and prepare you for a career.