Within the intricate web of healthcare, where precision and efficiency meet to influence patient outcomes, Point of Care Testing (POCT) stands out as a beacon of innovation and reliability. As an Associate Practitioner in POCT, my journey is not just a job but a testament to the dedication, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to excellence that define our role in the healthcare ecosystem.

At the forefront of our responsibilities lie the tasks of maintaining and troubleshooting all POCT analysers within the trust. With meticulous attention to detail and precision, we ensure the operational effectiveness of these devices, guaranteeing that clinicians have access to accurate and timely diagnostic information when it matters most. Additionally, we diligently maintain stocks of consumables, minimising downtime and ensuring uninterrupted service delivery.

Our commitment to excellence in quality extends beyond routine maintenance duties, we sustain the standards of clinical appropriateness and reliability. Utilising Internal Quality Controls and External Quality Assurance schemes, we verify the integrity of the results given, using our judgement to address any deviations promptly and implementing necessary corrective measures to ensure we uphold the highest standards of accuracy and reliability. 

Associate Practitioners serve as the foundation of operational effectiveness, ensuring that the POCT service runs seamlessly by maintaining levels of consumables, keeping the workspace organised and safe, and promptly addressing any urgent issues that may arise. We provide invaluable support to wards and clinical areas, bridging the gap between technology and patients at the point of care. 

Furthermore, education is the core of our operations. We provide comprehensive training sessions to equip our colleagues with the confidence and skills to proficiently and safely operate POCT equipment. Through maintaining a database of trained staff and ensuring effective and equitable distribution of knowledge across the organisation, we work diligently to ensure that patients receive the right test at the right time and that POCT is smoothly integrated into patient care pathways, thereby safeguarding their well-being.

Associate practitioners are the overlooked heroes that work backstage, quietly propelling the boundaries of POCT excellence forward. While our work may not always be visible, they have significant impact on direct patient care and support the work of biomedical scientists and clinicians. Together we uphold precision, cultivate collaboration, and strive for excellence, all with the aim of enriching Point of Care Testing for the benefit of all those we serve.

My journey in POCT has been characterised by a commitment to growth, collaboration, and innovation. 

Starting in 2006 as an assistant technical officer in the pathology support unit at MKUH, I immersed myself into the foundational principles of Pathology. Through hard work and the support of incredible colleagues, I earnt NVQ levels 3 and 4 as well as a BTEC in Laboratory Associated and Technical Activities, laying a strong foundation for my future endeavours.

In 2013, I moved into the role of Associate Practitioner in Haematology and Blood Transfusion, where I further developed my skills and gained invaluable experience working in the laboratory, supporting Biomedical scientists, working on analysers, and learning about governance and regulatory procedures.  

In 2017 I found my true calling in Point of Care Testing. Drawn to its dynamic nature and direct impact on patient care, I embarked on a path that would ultimately redefine my career trajectory. As an Associate Practitioner in POCT, I have embraced a diverse range of responsibilities, each contributing to the advancement of diagnostic services and patient outcomes.

A significant aspect of my role involves assisting in the verification of new devices, ensuring their accuracy, reliability, and suitability for clinical use. With meticulous attention to detail and adherence to rigorous testing protocols, I play a pivotal role in ensuring that only the highest quality devices are deployed. I have taken on additional responsibilities within the department, implementing new procedures to enhance service ease and reliability through acceptance testing and an online booking system for training sessions. This commitment to quality extends to the connectivity of data managers to the electronic patient record, facilitating seamless integration of POCT results into patient care pathways. 

I have had the privilege of working closely with primary care providers, forging partnerships that have enhanced governance, streamlined processes, and optimised patient outcomes. Together, we have leveraged our collective expertise to implement new protocols, explore emerging technologies, and drive forward the boundaries of what is possible in POCT.

Currently, I am in my third year of a healthcare science degree apprenticeship with University of East Anglia (UEA), which has provided me with invaluable theoretical knowledge and practical skills that complement my hands on experience in POCT, upon completion, I plan to take on the IBMS Certificate of Excellence in POCT and the PRINCE2 qualification in project management with the hope of a future career in leadership. 

As I reflect on my journey thus far, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities that have influenced my career trajectory and steered me towards new horizons of achievement. 

I have gained experience, knowledge, and lifelong friendships, learning from some of the finest professionals in the field. Each step has shaped my understanding, skills, and passion for advancing patient care, reaffirming my commitment to excellence in point of care testing. I look forward to continuing this journey, advancing POCT to new heights of excellence, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.

My journey from the foundations to my current role serves as a reminder that no experience is too small, and every step forward is a chance to evolve and excel. To those considering this career path, I encourage you to embrace the journey, starting from the ground up. Every lesson learned, every skill acquired, paves the way for a rewarding and fulfilling career in healthcare. Seize the opportunity to learn, grow, and make a difference one step at a time.