David Akoki: My observership at QEHB remains a pivotal part of my medical education journey
David Akoki, Director of Communications of The Genowise Project and Undergraduate Researcher at Duke Center for Policy Impact in Global Health, shared a post on LinkedIn:
Even after a year, my observership experience at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham (QEHB) (University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust) remains a pivotal part of my medical education journey. During my time in the Neuro-oncology department, I had the invaluable opportunity to observe advanced cancer care delivery.
The staff at the radiotherapy unit were incredibly welcoming, allowing me to observe the planning of radiotherapy sessions. A highlight was witnessing the CyberKnife robotic system perform stereotactic radiosurgery – truly a marvel of modern medicine.
The outpatient clinic observations were particularly enlightening, showcasing the collaborative approach to patient care and the complex considerations that accompany cancer diagnoses. I was also fortunate to observe multidisciplinary team meetings and clinical trials discussions, which provided insight into the comprehensive nature of cancer care.
This experience starkly illustrated the gap in cancer care outcomes between developing and high-income countries. While high-income countries can provide advanced care even for late-stage cases, many patients in developing countries like Nigeria struggle to access basic cancer services and early diagnosis.
The NHS, despite its challenges, stands as a remarkable example of public health and social investment in healthcare. This experience reinforced my belief that optimal cancer care outcomes are difficult to achieve through out-of-pocket funding alone.
My exposure to oncology at QEHB has strengthened my interest in the field, inspiring me to pursue a career combining cancer care, research, and medical education.
My sincere gratitude goes to my supervising Consultant Dr Helen Benghiat, and Dr Paul Sanghera and Dr Oyeleye Egunjobi for their support and making this observership possible.”
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