Our ‘Career Stories’ blog posts have been developed to help show the variety of careers in health and care. In this article, we spoke to Tom Warren-Dolman, who reflected on his degree and how it led him to a career in the NHS.
Navigating career choices post-university can often feel daunting, especially when your degree doesn’t directly align with a specific job path. I can relate to that uncertainty, having graduated with a degree in Theology—a subject I was deeply passionate about but didn’t translate immediately into a defined career trajectory like nursing or engineering as examples.
Despite this, my career journey within essential services has been both fulfilling and transformative. It’s crucial to challenge the misconception surrounding administrative roles, which are often downplayed with phrases like “just admin.” Early in my career, a mentor emphasised that there’s no “just” about it—this advice has been a guiding principle throughout my professional journey.
Here’s a look at my career progression, demonstrating how administrative roles can lead to impactful and rewarding positions:
Get In:
- Clerical Officer in the MSK/Physio Department at York Hospital (Band 2)
My entry into the NHS began as a Clerical Officer. This role provided a foundational understanding of the healthcare system, patient interaction, and essential administrative processes.
Get On:
- Patient Access Coordinator in Outpatients at York Hospital (Band 4)
Transitioning to a Patient Access Coordinator allowed me to take on more responsibilities, managing patient appointments and improving access to care. This role honed my coordination skills and deepened my appreciation for patient-centered service. - Care Coordinator for the York Integrated Care Team (Band 5)
As a Care Coordinator, I worked closely with healthcare professionals to ensure seamless care for patients. This role was pivotal in understanding integrated care and the importance of collaborative healthcare delivery.
Go Further:
- Systems and Process Development Manager at York Medical Group PCN (Band 6)
Moving into a managerial role, I focused on developing and refining systems and processes to enhance efficiency and patient care. This position highlighted the critical role of innovation and process improvement in healthcare. - Senior Population Health Manager at HNY ICB, York Place (Band 8a)
Currently, as a Senior Population Health Manager, I oversee initiatives aimed at improving health outcomes on a larger scale. This role combines strategic planning, data analysis, and community engagement, underscoring the impact of administrative expertise on public health.
My career path illustrates that administrative roles are far from “just” positions—they are integral to the functionality and improvement of healthcare services. By embracing these roles, I’ve been able to contribute significantly to patient care and system enhancements.
If you’re starting your career or contemplating a move within the NHS, remember that each role, no matter how administrative it may seem, offers valuable opportunities to make a difference. Embrace the journey, and you’ll find that these essential services are both rewarding and impactful.
For those considering a similar path, I hope my experiences inspire and affirm the value of every role within our health services. Your journey in essential services can indeed lead to significant and fulfilling career advancements.
October 2024
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