Medical Professionals Annual Event

Dr Russell Cowan (Weymouth 1958-1963) reports on how the medics beat the pandemic restrictions to hold a successful annual event on Thursday 18 March 2021

The style of this meeting in the modern era has been a blend of science, education and social activity held at a distinguished medical venue in central London. The pandemic brought this successful format to an abrupt halt and restricted us to an on-line meeting this year. Sadly, the third component of the format was not possible, but the scientific component was, and we were fortunate that all bar one of our faculty from the 2020 programme were available and happy to participate.

In excess of ninety Old Millhillians, teaching staff and pupils registered, including pupils from the Foundation’s partner schools although, as with most Zoom events, not all attended. Those who did join the event were treated to three first-class presentations.

The purpose of the Symposium, ‘A hospital-based medical career’, was to provide some insight and explanation into how and why young, hospital-based doctors decide to pursue a career in particular specialties. Our speakers, OM Dr Melanie Powell (Priestley 1978-1980), consultant clinical oncologist, and OM Mr Matthew Welck (McClure 1992-97), consultant orthopaedic surgeon sub-specialising in foot and ankle problems, provided strong clinical, professional and personal reasons for the careers they had chosen and how these reasons could apply to other specialties.

The Keynote Talk was delivered by Ian Needleman (Murray 1974 - 1978), Professor of Periodontology and EvidenceInformed Healthcare at the UCL Eastman Dental Institute. The title of his talk, ‘A journey through Olympic Games, professional sport and oral health research – what career guidance didn’t tell me’ gave an indication of the range of interests, both personal and professional, and the scientific contribution Professor Needleman is making. The synopsis of his life and career that accompanied this report confirms the breadth of his talents and his undoubted energy. His talk at this meeting will have inspired and impressed many who listened.

We were all able to chat on-line briefly before the start of the meeting as, of course, there was no opportunity for social interaction. We hope for a return to normal arrangements in 2022 when the Medical Professions Meeting is scheduled to take place at the Royal College of Anaesthetists on Thursday 17 March. We would be delighted to welcome new faces.

Contact details - Russell Cowan cowans@btinternet.com

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