When I first started at Ashgrove, I used to say I was “just a doctor’s receptionist” but I soon learned that we do so much more. After three years, I know how much I love my job. It is really rewarding and I feel lucky to work with such a kind and supportive team. This is a very busy job. We are the first people patients speak to. We help patients get to the right person to help them. Sometimes this can be someone outside of the practice so it’s important to know about lots of different services and what they do. We book appointments, listen carefully to each patient, deal with prescription questions and do important admin tasks. We also work closely with GPs, nurses and other healthcare staff.
I enjoy helping patients get the care and support they need, especially when they feel worried or unwell. I also love working with a great team and building good relationships.
I worked in finance for over 25 years as an Area Manager but after a family loss I felt I needed a change and wanted to help others. I started working in the nursing home where my father-in-law had passed away and stayed there for 18 months. Then I moved to the hospital in Mountain Ash where I supported people living with dementia. It was a very rewarding job. When that role ended, I started working at Ashgrove. I am still here now and I truly love the work I do.
To do well in this job, you need to be a good listener, be patient and be caring. You should always be professional and try to understand how the patient feels. Some people find it very hard to come in and ask for help, so it’s important to be kind. The best part of the job is knowing you made the right choice for the patient and seeing how thankful they are.