We are now at a cross-roads in Cardiology whereby it is well-understood that if we don’t address the gender-imbalance then valuable talent will be lost.

I am an Interventional Cardiologist appointed as a Consultant at the Glenfield Hospital, University Hospitals of Leicester, since 2017. I trained in the Eastern Deanery and completed a PhD from Kings College, London with subsequent publications in the field of cardiac CMR and perfusion imaging. I completed my interventional training with a fellowship at Toronto General Hospital, Canada having been awarded the BCIS fellowship.

I decided on Interventional Cardiology as I enjoyed the technical aspects of doing a procedural sub-speciality. I thrive on the fast pace of interventional cardiology, treating acutely unwell patients who require instant decision-making and intervention. I also enjoy the camaraderie of working in a team environment.

I am frequently asked whether as a female, interventional training is difficult. The oft-cited issues are the perceived “macho” culture of working in a male-dominated field and the often long and rigid training plans. There is no doubt that combining a family with interventional training is a challenge. I worked predominantly full-time as a trainee with three young children and getting a good work-life balance always seemed beyond reach.

The important considerations that can ease the stress of combining training in Cardiology with a family are good quality childcare, a supportive partner/family and flexible training. There are also more female role-models who have successfully navigated the journey and are available for sponsorship and mentorship along the way.

We are now at a cross-roads in Cardiology whereby it is well-understood that if we don’t address the gender-imbalance then valuable talent will be lost. I do believe that if you are passionate about your sub-specialty then you will overcome all odds, and the rewards of doing a job that you enjoy are immense and well-worth the training journey.