Hospital prosthetist shortlisted for national award

Dr Emma Worrell, Principal Maxillofacial Prosthetist at Queen Victoria Hospital in East Grinstead has been shortlisted for a national Our Health Heroes award as clinical support worker of the year.

The awards, run by Skills for Health, celebrate the significant contribution clinical support workers make in the delivery of high-quality healthcare across the UK.

The judges were very interested in the national research study which Emma is leading for Queen Victoria Hospital, looking into comfort and outcomes for people using an artificial eye. The hospital’s team treat around 200 patients a year who have an ocular prosthesis (artificial eye), and the study has gained have feedback from 1,185 people across the country through a partnership with 40 hospitals.

Emma devised the study as she was concerned that no modern literature existed on the quality of life for patients after they lose an eye, or adapting to monocular vision (where both eyes are used separately). The most commonly referenced book was devised in 1972. Now in its data phase, the results of the study she is leading will be published and used to develop best practice, update patient information sheets and improve cleaning protocols across the health sector. Last year it was featured on Radio 4’s Inside Health programme.

With over 30 years’ experience within the maxillofacial prosthetics field, alongside her clinical work, Emma has always had a keen interest in research. She told the awards team: “Our work on prosthetic eyes is very much a team effort; I am lucky enough to work with an expert and enthusiastic team of prosthetists. Queen Victoria Hospital does amazing work rebuilding people’s lives and I am proud to play my part in that.”

Commenting on her shortlisting Steve Jenkin, chief executive at Queen Victoria Hospital, said: “We are delighted that Emma has been shortlisted for this national award. She is passionate about her work and making a difference. The patients she works with have often had traumatic, life changing events and her calm and caring manner are central to the bond she builds and the trust she inspires.”

You can vote for Emma online now via this link https://www.skillsforhealth.org.uk/ohh-2019/clinical-support-worker-of-the-year-2019 Voting closes on Friday 11 October.

For more information please contact the QVH Press Office on 01342 414508.