Can you describe what you do day-to-day?
For the most part, you’ll find me in the cardiac catheter labs where electrophysiology procedures for patients who have abnormal heart rhythms are carried out. These include ablation, where areas of the heart that are causing the abnormal beat are burnt or frozen, and implanting a pacemaker or cardioverter device to help regulate the heartbeat. I also work in the outpatient clinic, where patients come for check-ups following treatment.
What do you like most about your job?
As a cardiac physiologist I like how widely varied my role is throughout the week, no day is ever the same!
Targeting the right area of the heart during a complex ablation and getting the patient back to normal rhythm is extremely gratifying and rewarding. Being able to collaborate with a consultant and form treatment strategies for patients is an important part and it’s great to be a part of a team which can make such a hugely positive impact to a patient’s life.
Which part of your job is most challenging?
The early mornings and late finishes. I run marathons and it can be difficult to fit in training around these hours. But I work with a flexible and supportive team so its rare that my colleagues can’t cover days which I can’t do because of training or racing, which I’m enormously grateful for!
What is the best/funniest thing a patient has ever said to you?
“Can I get the number of where you got your perm…?”
Why did you decide to work in healthcare?
I wanted to work in a rewarding role where I could help people. I always had a keen interest in cardiology physiology (which I think I developed through my hobbies of health and fitness) and technology – so the combination of the two seemed to work perfectly.
What did you want to be when you were younger?
Like most New Zealand kids, an All Black. Sadly my physique is the total opposite of what a rugby player should be… So, I run instead!