NHS Trust boss sees life at the sharp end

A HEALTH executive spent a shift in A&E shadowing staff in one of Rotherham Hospital’s busiest departments.

John Somers, chief financial officer at Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust, was interested in learning about challenges faced by medics.

He said: “It was an extremely valuable exercise to step into the shoes of our staff and patients to experience the care and surroundings provided within the trust.

“I came away with an in-depth understanding of the variation of roles our staff carry out and it was very useful to receive feedback from staff and patients.

“I’m thankful for the opportunity to get back to the floor as it highlighted to me the great commitment and dedication of our staff.”

John, who also spent time with the medical admissions unit and care management team, wanted to learn more about the admissions process.

A hospital spokeswoman said: “The Back to the Floor scheme helps to give execs, who might otherwise be desk based for the most of their day, a real experience of daily working life for staff and helps them to suggest improvements from the perspective of patients and staff.

“It is part of our dedicated approach to examining services to ensure that the trust strives to continually consider improvements to services for its staff and patients.”

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