Our recent Clinical Audit Competition saw Resident Doctor, Catherine Howell, named the overall winner. She was selected by her peers for her work to improve care for patients with Bartholin’s gland cysts by introducing Word Catheters as the first-line treatment, which offers a much less invasive alternative to surgery.

Catherine said “I’m delighted that we could put a spotlight on women's health in highlighting the importance of their health issues and patient journeys through the hospital at CHFT. I really enjoyed the audit meeting and learnt a lot from my other colleagues presenting! Thank you for the opportunity.”

Deputy Medical Director and Consultant Radiologist, Nikhil Bhuskute, said: "We witnessed an impressive array of high-quality audits that showcased innovative services like VTE prophylaxis, the introduction of a New Bone Biopsy service, and Botox injections for children with spasticity.

“These initiatives not only reflect our commitment to excellence in patient care and service improvement, but also demonstrated significant financial savings and positive environmental impacts. Together, we are advancing healthcare quality and sustainability!"

Three other projects were selected as finalists to present on the day:

• Resident Doctors, Chloe Wong and Ishak Rouf shared their work improving compliance with VTE assessments in surgical areas.
• Consultant Interventional Radiologist, Hossam Elgebali, discussed the establishment of a new Bone and Spine Biopsy service.
• Clinical Lead Physiotherapist, Stephanie Blackburn and Consultant Paediatrician, Venkat Thiyagesh presented how they have enhanced care for children with spastic movement disorders linked to Cerebral Palsy by evidencing full assurance with NICE guidelines, demonstrating much shorter wait times than other services in the region, and how they provide a comprehensive MDT therapeutic approach.

Congratulations to all involved.