Catherine Higgett – of Prospect Surgery in Middlesborough – has received a PMA Lifetime Achievement Award for her outstanding and sustained contributions to the healthcare sector.
In her own words, she “never thought in a million years” she would win and was completely shocked when presented with her certificate. She is delighted with her award, which is currently taking pride of place at home while the surgery is undergoing building works.
How do you start your day?
I make sure I’m always at work early as I like to get signed on before the 8am emergency calls start. Then I make us all a hot drink to start our day off on the right foot! Usually for the full duration of my shift, I’m on the front desk greeting and helping patients with any queries.
No two days are the same. But what does a typical day look like for you?
Marking patients in for their appointments, handing out paperwork, sick notes, prescriptions, and sample bottles etc. Making copies of medical records and registration forms and scanning hospital letter and outpatient treatment forms.
In between face-to-face queries at the desk and answering calls, I am responsible for contacting patients with their test results and any follow up actions needed. I also confirm the cervical screening, immunisation and CHS appointments ready for the next day.
I am always eager to help my colleagues as best as I can and strongly believe in teamwork and going the extra mile.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
It might be easier if a listed the things I enjoyed the least because I can honestly say I love 99% of the job and what it entails.
One of my favourite parts of the job is working with the team. I feel you need to have a good working relationship to allow you to offer the best service you can for the patients you’re trying to help, and I love nothing more than helping people, it is just in my nature.
The other is seeing generations of families growing up over the years and seeing the younger generation now having children of their own.
I have worked here for 50 years, and all the staff have been like family to me. They’ve supported me on both a work and personal level and I look forward to many more years to come.
What do you think is the biggest challenge currently facing primary care?
I will admit over the years the job has become more intense, mainly due to the demands on the service. People are living longer, family sizes are growing and, thankfully, we are now more aware of other health conditions, mental health being a prime example.
How do you relax and recharge?
I relax by looking after my family and love nothing more than spending time with them in general, going for walks and listening to my radio in the kitchen.
I also enjoy cooking and baking and will often bring things in for the girls at work (if they remind me enough that is!)
