Greetings from the Falklands: “I can honestly say it is a pleasure to come to work every day”

From the UK to the other side of the world in just 10 days. Conan’s journey to the Falkland Islands was nothing short of remarkable. Within 3 hours of registering with Dedicare, he found himself preparing for a role as a Operating Department Practitioner at the King Edward Memorial Hospital. Here’s what he has to say about this unique adventure.

Tell us how it all started!

It’s not often you start work on the other side of the world within 10 days of a phone call. But that’s exactly what transpired when I speculatively registered with Dedicare in early September.

Chris phoned me within 3 hours and enquired as to how quickly I could be ready to go to the Falklands. I’d need at least 48hrs, I replied. (A life of army service means I am quite used to last minute opportunities). And despite the usual Agency compliance formalities, I was boarding my aircraft at Heathrow 10 days later.

That must have been quite an adventure, can you describe your experience working with Dedicare?

No exaggeration to say it was seamless, and the communication from Chris and the rest of the team was first class. If only all agencies could do similar. (Trust me, after 21 years in the industry the spectrum is a vast one!)

How was the journey to the Falklands and what were your first impressions when you arrived?

The journey south was straightforward, including the hotel in Santiago all taken care of, and on arrival in Stanley Clare was fantastic. A font of all local knowledge, nothing is too much trouble for her, from the welcome pack of food in the accommodation, to booking tours and trips around the islands.

What about your assignment and your experience of the Falklands so far?

I am currently 4 weeks into a 3 month ODP placement at the KEMH in Stanley. The weather is beginning to improve after a few weeks of snow and -10/12 temperatures, the wind chill makes all the difference here. It is much drier than the UK, especially after the summer we have endured this year.

The hospital is small but well equipped to deal with most emergencies which come our way, those requiring offshore care are Aeromedded to Uruguay or the UK via the RAF.

Specialist Surgeons and physicians visit throughout the year, and currently we have Endoscopy and Gynaecology consultants in the Islands.

Are you enjoying your job?

I can honestly say it is a pleasure to come to work every day, not something I’ve always felt in the NHS!

Although the on call rota is intense, I have managed to meet some of the local wildlife on my days off, and also visit the hills surrounding Stanley and walk the 1982 Battlefields of Tumbledown Longdon and Wireless Ridge. Later in the month I’m planning a weekend to Pebble Island on the local Air Service flights.

How would you describe the islands?

Stanley is well appointed with shops, has 10 pubs, so although one is currently being refurbished and another was gutted by fire last week, you’re never too far from a pint or two.

In summary a perfect way to expand your practice, enjoy a healthy relaxing reset, and see wildlife and landscapes most will never experience.

Anything more you would like to add?

Thank you to all at Dedicare for the consummate professionalism at every step of the way!

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