Staff at Weston General Hospital to promote the vital role of laboratory science for National Awareness Day

Biomedical science staff at Weston Area Health NHS Trust (WAHT) are celebrating Biomedical Science Day on Thursday 19 July 2018 by setting down their microscopes and engaging with staff and the public.

Biomedical Science Day is organised by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), the professional body for biomedical scientists, laboratory support staff and students. Held on the birthday of IBMS founder, Albert Norman (1881-1964), it aims to raise the profile of biomedical science and to show that it is at the heart of patients’ healthcare.

In only its second year, the awareness day has gained significant popularity amongst biomedical laboratory staff across the UK, with many planning to open the doors to their laboratories or organise events.

The WAHT team of biomedical scientists will be in Rafters restaurant at Weston General Hospital on Thursday 19 July and will have a mix of scientists available throughout the day to share their experiences and explain what really goes on behind those locked doors. 

Patrick Simms, Senior Biomedical Scientist and Pathology Training Manager at WAHT, said: “Biomedical Science Day is a great opportunity for us to promote the role of biomedical science. By stepping out from behind our usually locked laboratory doors we can show the public how vital our role is in their healthcare. It’s also a great opportunity for our Lab staff to interact and engage with the people we so very rarely get to meet.”

Alison Geddis, President of the Institute of Biomedical Science, said: “Despite many encounters with our work throughout their lifetime, most people are unaware of the important role of biomedical science in their healthcare.

“The theme for Biomedical Science Day 2018 is ‘at the heart of healthcare’. It aims to highlight how the role of our members is central to patients’ healthcare as biomedical science produces the data on which doctors, consultants and surgeons base their diagnoses to plan a patient’s treatment.”

Photo:  Biomedical scientist Mohammed Yusuf