I liked the idea of being a doctor from a young age
When I was around four years old, I was in the hospital waiting for an appointment with my mother. All the children were running around being noisy and naughty but when the doctor entered the room, they all sat down and immediately there was silence. This left a strong impression on me; from that moment I decided I wanted to be a doctor.
I went to university to study general medicine but changed to rheumatology due to the personal approach
After a couple of years, I realised I was drawn to rheumatology as it’s more personalised. Because they have a chronic disease, you support your patients over the long term which builds trust and a connection.
I became a Consultant in 2008
I worked in Hungary in secondary care outpatient clinics until moving to the UK in 2015, where I worked in the wards and outpatients for the NHS in Stoke-on-Trent and the Isle of Wight.
The development opportunities prompted a move to Connect Health
When I looked into the vacancy at Connect Health, I was attracted by the opportunity to develop the Community Rheumatology Service across the organisation, and also to the open management style. I was successful, starting the role in November 2018.
Connect Health gives me the flexibility I want in my career
To be a good Rheumatologist I need to be involved in secondary care services. The plan is to go back to working in the NHS two days a week, and Connect Health gives me the freedom to achieve this balance.
My colleagues are very respectful and easy to connect with
There’s a great atmosphere and a teamwork culture. The clinicians are very friendly, and I see a lot of very bright, clever, young people who are motivated and open to change.
Whilst Connect Health was traditionally an MSK-based organisation, the multi-disciplinary team is increasing
Medical specialities are still becoming embedded in the structure and the systems. Very rarely, the Rheumatology service isn’t fully included in communications, but this is recognised and being addressed.
I feel like my experience in Rheumatology is respected
The management team are open to listening to you, which enables me to make changes. We want to change how Rheumatology works in this country, not only via clinical leaders but through the friendly and supportive working environment. I’m part of the Special Interest Group (SIG) in rheumatology, and it’s really interesting for me to have a say in the development and shaping of the service.
As an independent company, we are much faster in responding to challenges
Connect Health is much more responsive than the NHS and is very dynamic. There aren’t as many unnecessary managerial meetings which makes it an easier place to work. It’s much more flexible, effective and responsive.
Working at Connect Health has given me a chance to make an impact and create something new.
If someone is looking for that it’s a perfect place for them.
If you’d like to find out more about working at Connect Health, contact people@connecthealth.co.uk
Click here to download Krisztina Szabo-Kocsis’ Story
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