When Dr. Luke joined the Hospice team in August, he was looking for more than just a new role – he was seeking a place where care goes beyond medicine. After qualifying from Southampton Medical School in 2023 and spending two years at Watford General Hospital, Luke felt the pull toward a more holistic approach to healthcare.
Unlike the fast-paced hospital environment, where time with patients and families is often limited, the Hospice offers something rare – the gift of time. “The service here is very person-centred, holistic, and caring,” Luke explains. “It’s about providing care that’s right for each individual, which really suits my character as well.” Luke describes his most rewarding moments as those spent sitting with patients and their loved ones, answering questions, easing worries, and truly understanding their needs. “It's really rewarding just to dispel some of the myths or concerns about what's going on,” he says.
A typical day for Luke starts with a morning meeting alongside nurses, followed by patient visits to review symptoms and adjust medication. But care here isn’t just clinical – it’s deeply personal. Whether it’s psychological support, wellbeing activities, or simply listening, the team works together to address every aspect of a patient’s experience. “It’s a really supportive environment,” Luke notes. “The burden is shared and decisions are made as a team.”
One common misconception Luke encounters is that hospices are only for end-of-life care. While that is, naturally, an important facet of their work, the Hospice also supports people with complex conditions, providing symptom management and complementary therapies, among others. “It’s not just about the end of life – it’s about living well, even with serious illness,” he emphasises.
For Luke, joining the Hospice wasn’t just a career move – it was a chance to make a meaningful difference. His story is a powerful reminder that compassionate care can transform not only patients’ lives, but also the lives of those who provide it.
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