13 December 2011
Staff at the Elective Orthopaedic Centre (EOC), which is based at Epsom Hospital, were officially thanked at the House of Commons recently by Mitcham and Morden MP, Siobhain McDonagh.
The event (on 28 November 2011) was held to thank those individuals and organisations taking part in a local work experience scheme, arranged by the MP. The occasion also saw those who completed their placements presented with certificates by the Rt Hon John Bercow MP, Speaker of the House of Commons.
The EOC, a centre of excellence for hip and knee replacement surgery, as well as research and development, opened its doors to 15 young people, who all spent a week finding out exactly what it's like being a surgeon in the famous facility.
During their time at EOC, the students were able to observe operations, shadow nurses as they did their ward rounds, sit in on surgery planning meetings and see how diagnostic equipment (such as x-ray machines) help to identify problems in hip, knee and ankle joints.
Sue King, the EOC's Director of Nursing, said: "When we were approached to take part in the work experience scheme we were only too happy to help. I should also mention our Director of Research, Mr Richard Field, whose hard work and support for the scheme has played a significant part in its success.
"Choosing to study medicine is a big decision, but at the very least the students who joined us at the EOC will be doing it with their eyes open. I'm sure they've all seen how rewarding a profession it can be."
One of those invited to the House of Commons event was Zoe Beer, who works in the EOC's research department. She said: "Our day at the House of Commons was fantastic; we saw the graduation ceremony for everyone on the work experience scheme and were given a tour of the Houses of Parliament.
"It can be difficult to find work experience in medicine, so it's very gratifying to show prospective doctors a taste of what they can expect. I hope that it has inspired those who took part to continue with their applications to study medicine.
"From a personal point of view, it feels great to play a part in giving something back to our local community."
