We’re delighted to announce that our dedication to training the next generation of exceptional cardiologists has been recognised with a national award.
Every year, the British Junior Cardiology Association conducts a survey of its members about the quality of training they have received.
And this year, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist, Dr Jawad Ul Qamar, the Training Programme Director for our region, has been voted Best Overall Trainer in the UK.
He said: “I am very grateful to the trainees who put my name forward for this award. Recognition from trainees means a great deal because they are the people directly experiencing the training environment we are trying to improve. I firmly believe that this award is a reflection of the fantastic work and collective efforts of the whole team in our region. All our Cardiology consultants are very approachable, and this award is for all of us – I was nominated as the central figure.”
Dr Qamar took on the role of Consultant and became a trainer five years ago. In January last year he was appointed the Programme Director for Cardiology training in our region – which covers Grimsby, our main training site at Castle Hill Hospital, York and Scarborough. Since then, he and the wider training team have implemented some significant changes to the training programme we offer our trainees, which have been very well received.
He said: “It’s been a collective team effort. I am particularly grateful for the support from colleagues across the department at Health Humber partnership, including Simon Thackray- Cardiology Chief of Service, Jill Mill – Operations director, our deputy Training Program director, Dr Asif Muhammad and all the wider team. Their support has helped us make positive changes in training and service delivery across the region. I am also pleased to report that this led to an overall improvement our national deanery ranking which will be published soon.”
At Castle Hill, Dr Jawad Ul Qamar is very keen to use Simulation training for learning in Cardiology. With the support of Hull institute of learning and simulation he started REACT course (Resuscitation, Emergency and Crisis Training) which is now being offered to trainees and Cath Lab teams across the region.
Dr Qamar said: “REACT is specialist training which enables teams to deal with emergencies in the CATH lab as they happen, while treating the patient simultaneously, improving patient safety. Castle Hill hospital is recognized as a centre of excellence for REACT training in UK.”
“I am very proud of the training team. My focus remains on making sure trainees are well supported and given appropriate opportunities to train and flourish in an environment that conducive to enhance productivity and confidence. This will help shape our future generation of cardiologists who will not only be an asset to our region but also nationally. We have all been trainees once and we know how much a little act of kindness, or a moment to help someone who is flustered or worried can go a long way.”
