Having been born in Ayrshire, my family moved away from the area when I was young. However, I returned following graduation to a medical post at Ayr Hospital in 2004. I was a medical SHO at Ayr for 3 years before taking the decision to become a GP. I trained locally in Ayrshire and the training experience that I had in Ayrshire was excellent and I would commend it to anyone thinking about undertaking GP training. The practices are supportive and there is an active programme of educational activity along with the residential events twice a year.
Since becoming a GP in 2009, I was a locum for a year, but took up Partnership in Irvine in 2010. I work in a dynamic and forward thinking training practice. I have been able to develop areas of interest and also become a trainer myself. General Practice in Ayrshire benefits form OOH margin times whereby the OOH service field calls from 1730-1800 and 0800-0830 so the day is slightly shorter; this is of benefit to those who may commute. Some of my partners are from Glasgow and commute without difficulty each day. In addition, we all have remote access which allows a slightly better work-life balance.
Since starting as a GP partner, I have now developed a portfolio career. My week currently consists of 6 sessions in practice, 2 sessions as an Associate Adviser for CPD with NHS Education for Scotland and I have also recently taken over as Secretary of the Local Medical Committee in Ayrshire and Arran. This keeps me busy, but also engaged and motivated. Ayrshire has a lot to offer both through work and now family life and I am very pleased that I returned here and it made Ayrshire my home.
