Sector Spotlight: Glynis Briggs, Surgical PA

Beginning our Sector Spotlight on Administration with a bang, we hear from two different people who hold administrative positions with NHS Orkney, the first of whom is Glynis Briggs, a Surgical PA. The health service requires a staggering amount of administration and this is just one job role of many, with more to be featured later today as well as throughout the week.

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--Can you describe a typical day in your role as Surgical PA?
There is no real typical day. I start off processing any referrals, do the post and appoint any Urgent Suspected Cancer or Urgent patients to clinic. Then I prioritise my work as to what is needing to be done e.g. typing, appointing clinics, processing results from any test results that come in, answering the phone calls from both patients and other staff within the hospital, helping colleagues, etc
 
--How did you end up in this role?
I have been with the Health Board for nearly 28 years now. I started in the Facilities Department, then joined Estates when it amalgamated with Facilities, then I worked with Support Services helping the Laundry, Kitchen, Porters, Switchboard etc. I then went on to become Stores Supervisor. After I finished there, I got a post with Clinical Administration helping the Medical Secretaries, then when a post became available in Medical Records I was moved into it and now I have gone back to Medical Secretaries to become one of the Surgical PAs.
 
I also help out in Outpatients, Radiology and Emergency Department if/when required.
 
--What is the best thing about your job?
The variety. No two days are the same.
 
--What is the worst thing about your job?
Sometimes the workload can be a bit overwhelming but we do all work together as a team in Clinical Administration and help each other when we can.
 
--What skills do you need to undertake your role?
Working as a team is definitely high on the list. Good communication in dealing with patients and staff. Attention to detail in making sure all information is taken down and disseminated correctly. Adaptability for periods of sickness/absence/busier periods.
 
--What qualifications do you have?
HNC/HND in Business Administration as well as the usual Standard Grades/Highers.
 
--Would you recommend this job to young people, if so why?
Definitely. Even though we are very busy all of the time, we still manage to have fun. Life is never dull and there is always something to do. You never have to actually look for something to fill your day. There is always someone to help you and give advice where required.

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