Brighton Student's Remarkable Achievement in Patient Safety
Congratulations are in order for Samehah Chowdhury, a second-year student in the BSc Diagnostic Radiography program at the University of Brighton. Samehah recently clinched the top honor in the 2025 Health and Care Professions Council's (HCPC) student competition, an event that beckons young professionals to engage with the critical issue of patient safety. Her entry stood out among a record number of submissions, capturing judges' attention with its clarity, creativity, and a profound understanding of the nuances in raising concerns essential for patient welfare.
Empowering Students to Raise Their Voices
The HCPC competition required participants to design a learning session focused on the importance of speaking up when it comes to patient safety. Recognizing a common hesitation among students and NHS staff alike when it comes to voicing concerns, Samehah aimed to bridge the gap in awareness by developing a presentation that was not merely informative but empowering.
“As both a student and NHS staff member, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to raise issues. Concerns over career progression and perceptions in clinical settings can lead to silence,” said Samehah. She explained that her goal was to cultivate a supportive environment where colleagues could safely communicate their concerns, thus facilitating better patient care.
What Made the Winning Entry Stand Out?
The judges commended Samehah’s presentation for its engaging and interactive format. Utilizing varied teaching techniques like case studies, group discussions, scenarios, and quizzes, she crafted a session that was not only educational but also exciting and interactive. The feedback praised the clear learning objectives that effectively resonated with participants, ultimately enhancing their understanding of why and how to raise concerns. One judge noted, “The session flowed well, and combined visuals with interactive activities, boosting clarity.”
A Message That Could Transform Healthcare
Through her presentation, Samehah also illuminated the critical point that speaking up is not about assigning blame but about preventing harm, which can profoundly impact both patient safety and the overall healthcare environment. She emphasized, “Winning this award shows that student voices are essential. It’s a reminder that the initiative for change can start with us as students, advocating for a healthier, more open professional culture.”
Celebrating a Moment of Recognition
To honor her achievement, Samehah traveled to London, where she received her award in person. Attending the ceremony also provided her with insights into the HCPC’s operations and their commitment to ensuring that student and professional voices are valued in shaping future healthcare practices. “It was inspiring to see how much emphasis is placed on listening and evolving based on feedback from students like me,” she said.
Why This Matters for Future Healthcare Professionals
Samehah’s victory not only symbolizes individual recognition but also epitomizes a shift in healthcare cultures towards greater transparency and accountability. Inspiring others along the way, she hopes her story encourages more students to advocate for safe practices and engage in open discussions about patient safety. As healthcare continues to evolve, it's essential that future professionals learn the importance of raising their voice confidently—something Samehah embodies fully.
Already, her winning entry can be reviewed on the HCPC website, providing a resource for many students and professionals eager to learn more about the dynamics of speaking up in healthcare environments.
Conclusion: How You Can Contribute
For those interested in joining this vital conversation and on the path to becoming an Allied Health Professional or simply those keen on understanding how to effectively raise concerns in healthcare, the lessons from Samehah's journey are invaluable. Embrace the role of a proactive participant in healthcare discussions, and explore opportunities at the University of Brighton.
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