Meet our new intern Paula!
How did you find out about the internship at Healthwatch Tower Hamlets?
I discovered the internship at Healthwatch Tower Hamlets during a career fair at my university, Queen Mary University of London. While exploring various opportunities, I engaged in a conversation at one of the stalls with a very lovely team member, who elaborated on the mission and activities of Healthwatch. Healthwatch involves direct engagement with the community through patient experiences and feedback as a means of research. I was particularly impressed by this approach, as I have always wanted to make a tangible impact in my community and as I am passionate about healthcare.
What kind of things did you learn during your internship?
During my internship at Healthwatch, I acquired a diverse range of skills. I learned how to effectively handle data, engage interpersonally, administer surveys, perform data input and analysis and deal with patients. Beyond these technical skills, I gained a broader understanding of healthcare. Initially, I believed healthcare was limited to experiences with GPs and healthcare facilities. However, Healthwatch opened my eyes to the extensive scope of healthcare and the various career paths within it. Additionally, it highlighted the critical importance of social healthcare and its impact on overall well-being.
Did the internship improve your learning/confidence or knowledge in a specific area?
The internship significantly enhanced my knowledge, confidence, and learning, especially in the area of community interaction within healthcare. I had the opportunity to attend various workshops, such as research projects on breast cancer screening, Peer and Community Research Model, and sessions on women’s sexual and reproductive health. These sessions allowed me to share my perspective from a Healthwatch viewpoint and contribute meaningfully to healthcare discussions. Interacting with patients and hearing their experiences was particularly enlightening, reinforcing the importance of community involvement. The experience broadened my perspective on the numerous factors influencing healthcare systems and underscored the value of community engagement.
What did you enjoy the most about the internship?
One of the most enjoyable aspects of my internship at Healthwatch was the ability to make a difference. Unlike typical internships, Healthwatch treats its interns as integral team members, bestowing significant responsibilities and allowing deep involvement in various tasks. I relished the dynamic nature of the work environment, where some days were spent in the office handling data, while other days involved community interaction, such as gathering patient feedback or attending collaborative workshops. This variety made each day unique and fulfilling.
Has working with Healthwatch changed how you view health and social care services?
Working with Healthwatch has profoundly changed my perspective on health and social care services. It has highlighted the vital role of social care services in ensuring comprehensive healthcare. The experience demonstrated that healthcare extends beyond mere doctor appointments; it encompasses creating patient-centered experiences and smooth interactions. Healthwatch provided me with a new, broader perspective on health, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of healthcare and the importance of addressing social determinants of health to enhance patient outcomes.
