….. And Now the Rock & Roll

OK, so perhaps not quite Rock & Roll, but certainly a better day. We had another meeting (yes, I agree, I spend far too much time in meetings!) and the discussion felt positive and I started to think that we might be able to get round this ridiculous Act enough to enable me to do my job.

I have explained before that I am a Consultant in Public Health Medicine, largely concerned with commissioning NHS services. I have also told you that our jobs are being designed out of the system. All of this remains true. What I had failed to take into account was the determination of others in Public Health, with far more clout than I, to make sure that it continued. Understanding the importance of the function, they are helping us to build it into the new system.

So, am I less concerned? Well, yes and no. Yes, for me personally; no, for the NHS. The problem, you see, is that at the moment we have lots of people who understand all the various strands. They are conspiring (if that is the right word) to make sure that a reasonable amount of Health Services Public Health (HSPH) continues. However, many of us are approaching retirement; many more are choosing to leave. In five years time, who will carry the banner of HSPH?

That, surely, is my job; to ensure the continuation of training in this field and to pass the banner to the next generation. It is a daunting task, but one which I relish. So, if I’m not quite dancing, at least I have a little smile on my face.