In 2018, Head Medical embarked on a new venture for the company. With the direction of Jo Hood, Head of UK and Ireland Recruitment and the previous experience of Katie Campbell, Senior Recruitment Consultant the ‘Head Medical Theatre Division’ was born. Shortly afterwards, Katie was joined by Kelly McPherson.
Katie and Kelly have over fifteen years of combined experience working with Scotland’s operating theatres, providing locum cover with Registered Nurses and Operating Department Practitioners. Their knowledge of the sector was exactly what was needed to grow the new division.
The addition of our new Nurse Managers brought even more valuable experience to the team. Priscilla Scott and Stephen Devenny have both worked in senior posts in theatres for the NHS and Private Hospitals for many, many years! They know exactly what Head Medical candidates and clients need from us and are always on hand to offer guidance. They help our Theatre Practitioners through every step of the registration process and assist with ongoing training and revalidation.
The strong relationships that Katie and Kelly have built with our NHS and Private clients over the years has helped the team go from strength to strength.
Head Medical's Theatre Division started with one ODP working in a hospital in the West of Scotland at the beginning of 2019. We now have over one hundred candidates across Scotland in full-time and ad hoc assignments.
We understand that taking the step to becoming an agency Theatre Practitioner on a full-time or part-time basis can be daunting. Our team will always ensure that our candidates are well looked after and ready for their first shift.
Priscilla recommends: “Working as an agency locum is a really good way to expand your experiences and skills. At Head Medical we suggest you have at least 18 months post-registration experience in the perioperative environment. The more skills you have, the better, as it allows us to offer a wider variety of assignments.”
If you are a Theatre RN or ODP who would like to join our online community, we have a closed Facebook group
Covid-19
At the beginning of 2020, Head Medical’s Theatre Division was busier than ever. However, a few months in, nobody could foresee what was to come. As the UK went into lockdown to tackle the spread of Covid-19, most of us were now working from home. Hospitals were reacting, working to alleviate the pressure of surging new admissions on the NHS and reduce transmission of the virus. Elective surgeries were postponed, but many of our candidates still worked on the frontline either through Head Medical or their substantive posts. We will always be grateful for their hard work and dedication.
What's next?
We're optimistic as we enter a new chapter - the future is bright for Head Medical Theatres! We have a fantastic team of Anaesthetic, Scrub and Recovery staff who provide a vital service. The pandemic has delayed important operations and our staff are ready to support the NHS and Private Hospitals when elective lists can resume as normal.
In preparation for elective operations starting again, we are looking to expand our database. If you are an ODP or Theatre Nurse, with a minimum of 18 months’ post-graduate experience, get in touch with us on 0131 240 5288 or email theatres@headmedical.com
Thank you
Our ongoing success and growth are without a doubt, largely thanks to our wonderful Theatre staff. Their talent, professionalism, dedication and support coupled with Head Medical’s solid client relationships is a winning combination.
Remember, if you know any Theatre staff looking to join, we offer a competitive referral bonus for everyone you recommend (T&Cs apply). If you have any queries or would like to find out more, get in touch with the team. We look forward to hearing from you!