Graphnet Health is a long-standing supporter of the NHS, standing behind its efforts to transform care, enhance efficiency, and improve patient outcomes.

On 5 July 2023, the NHS will mark its 75th anniversary. We spoke to four of our employees, including those with NHS backgrounds themselves, for their insights and personal experiences with the organisation, and why they believe it is such a special and integral part of the British health and care landscape.

Nomaan Razaq – Software Engineering Graduate

What is your NHS experience?
I had the opportunity to work as a COVID vaccinator at Dudley for six months. It was a fulfilling experience where I administered COVID-19 vaccines and assisted in the vaccination process. Being part of the NHS during this critical time allowed me to contribute to the collective effort of protecting public health. I had previously also assisted in the nationwide push for testing, during the pandemic, for COVID-19.

Why did you join the NHS?
I joined the NHS because I wanted to make a positive impact on people's lives and contribute to the well-being of the community. The NHS's dedication to providing exceptional healthcare and its values of inclusivity and compassion resonated deeply with me. Joining during the COVID-19 pandemic felt like an important opportunity to support the nation's response to the crisis.

Do you have a favourite memory?
One of my cherished memories from my time at Dudley was the opportunity to help an elderly patient understand the significant benefits of the COVID-19 vaccine and address any concerns or misconceptions they had. It was a gratifying experience to provide accurate information, dispel myths, and witness the patient's newfound confidence in receiving the vaccine. Empowering individuals with knowledge and contributing to their decision-making process was truly rewarding.

What is so special about the NHS?
The NHS is special because it represents the backbone of healthcare in the UK. It is a symbol of unity, compassion, and resilience. The NHS provides equal access to healthcare for all, regardless of socioeconomic background, and ensures that everyone receives the care they need. The dedication and professionalism displayed by NHS staff, especially during challenging times, make the NHS a truly exceptional institution.

 

David Grigsby – Chief Revenue Officer

Do you have any particular stories of how the NHS has supported you that you would like to share?
At the beginning of life and the end of life. They delivered my two children with care and professionalism and good humour, and they cared for my late father with great sensitivity and empathy.

What is so special about the NHS?
I remember how Danny Boyle featured the NHS in his opening ceremony at the London Olympics. I am so glad he did. Patriotism takes many forms, but one thing that makes me proud of our country is that we all fund a national health service that is free at the point of use for all. That seems like progress to me and something we should protect and develop.

What do you think the future looks like for the NHS?
Well, I would say this, but we have to get more bang for our buck by using data for targeted and early intervention. We can work smarter.

If you were asked to share an anniversary message with NHS staff, what would you say?
The founding principles of the NHS are as relevant, important and well supported as they ever were. Thank you for taking them forwards.

 

Mandy Wright – Chief Operating Officer

What is your NHS experience?
After qualifying as a registered nurse, I trained and specialised in trauma, orthopaedics and spinal injuries. Throughout my career, I worked in a number of related areas such as ED and Theatres but always gravitated back to the trauma wards with my last position being Ward Manager of two hectic trauma wards.

Why did you join the NHS?
I know most people who work in the clinical field always planned to do so but I really didn’t know what I wanted to do when I left school. So, after a brief stint as a secretary (I was awful) and then photocopier engineer (fun for a while), while I figured it out, I applied for a number of things. One of those things was nursing. I was accepted, decided to give it a shot, found out that I liked it, and the rest is history.

Do you have a favourite memory?
There are many things that come to mind, but there are two standout ones. The first time I successfully performed CPR on a patient and secondly putting on my Ward Sister uniform for the first time.

What is so special about the NHS?
There is no other organisation in the world quite like it. Firstly, it is HUGE! It is the largest employer in the UK and the seventh largest in the world. While there are always improvements that can be made, we know the NHS will be there when we need it, and we trust that the people that make up the NHS will always do their best for us.

 

Lesley Harvey – Solution owner – Mental Health & Social Care

What is your NHS experience?
I worked within the NHS for approximately 16 years – starting in the Learning Disability Directorate as a physio assistant. Change and transformation has always been my passion so when the Trust EPR was being developed and deployed, I took a role as a training and change specialist in both Mental Health and Learning Disabilities. In future years I became an external consultant and deployed many EPRs around the country both in Mental Health and Acute.

Why did you join the NHS?
At the time it was the flexibility of being able to work, even though I had a family and being able to make a difference to a very vulnerable cohort of people.

Do you have a favourite memory?
Three things spring to mind. Firstly, music and movement sessions with Learning Disability service users – which were such fun for all involved. Secondly, the go-lives of the EPR systems, which were tremendously hard work but very rewarding to see people transition to digital records from patient paper notes. One particular memory was of a ward clerk who had never used a computer before but was desperate to learn. We had such fun and by the end, she was more than able to carry out her role using the new technology.

What is so special about the NHS?
The people.