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Role Models: Electrophysiology

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Dr Aaisha Opel
London
"I do face many day to day challenges that many others do not as I am a single mother and those quite different to my male counterparts. I am keen that current NHS culture is broken to understand and accept these, hence allowing a true work/life balance..."

I am a Consultant Cardiologist and Electrophysiologist working in London. Primarily, I would like to say that I am a mummy and being a consultant is what I do to earn a living!

I subspecialty trained at St Bartholomew’s/ Barts Heart Centre and have been working as a consultant since 2017, initially at the Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS trust. As an electrophysiologist, I like the variability in my work; treating all ages, acute to chronic conditions and sometimes offering a cure. Electrophysiology remains a male dominated field with few role models; I promote gender integration as women and men bring different skills, often have similar family considerations although the challenges and responsibilities faced by women are different. I am a mentor and this is a role that I enjoy very much.

I undertook research in the form of a PhD; this was a basic science project where I tried to figure out one reason why atrial fibrillation may occur. I was awarded the Academy of Medical Science Clinical Scientist in Training award form my work and was runner up in two young investigator competitions. Throughout my training, I was trainee representative on several councils including Heart Rhythm UK/ British Heart Rhythm Society, Specialist Advisory Committee in Cardiology, KBA panel and BJCA. I thoroughly enjoy teaching and training, leadership and management hence developing services for the betterment of my department and patients, one of which has won several awards.

I am mummy to a vibrant young daughter, who is my priority. I do face many day to day challenges that many others do not as I am a single mother and those quite different to my male counterparts. I am keen that current NHS culture is broken to understand and accept these, hence allowing a true work/life balance; I do believe that this will make our entire workforce stronger and encourage high quality individuals to join us! This is of paramount importance.

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